---
title: "Before print: resolution, bleed, and color profiles (CMYK vs sRGB)"
date: 2026-04-12
author: "xcropimage.io Team"
tags: ["print", "CMYK", "sRGB", "bleed", "resolution"]
lang: "en"
description: "A short checklist for DPI, bleed, and color conversion when sending images to brochures or packaging."
---

## Introduction

Sending **sRGB** web images straight to **CMYK** print causes color shifts. Missing **bleed** and wrong **DPI** create white edges or blur.

<figure>
<img src="/blog-images/print-resolution-bleed-color-profile-guide.jpg" alt="Before print: resolution, bleed, and color profiles (CMYK vs sRGB)." width="1200" height="630" loading="lazy" decoding="async" />
<figcaption>Before print: resolution, bleed, and color profiles (CMYK vs sRGB).</figcaption>
</figure>

**Earlier in this series:** [Pinterest vertical strategy](/blog/pinterest-pin-dimensions-vertical-strategy) · [LinkedIn covers](/blog/linkedin-article-event-cover-safe-area) · [WebP vs AVIF](/blog/webp-avif-publishing-browser-fallback).

## DPI and physical size

The common **300 DPI** guideline depends on final print dimensions. Adobe explains [image size and resolution](https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/using/image-size-resolution.html) clearly.

## Bleed and trim

Always ask vendors for **bleed templates**—designing flush to trim without bleed risks ugly gaps after cutting.

## Color profiles

Web assets are usually **sRGB**; offset often needs **CMYK**. Convert in a controlled environment; see [ICC profiles](https://www.color.org/profile_registry.xalter) for background.

## Bridge to web

For the same product shot online, follow [product photo resolution for Retina](/blog/product-photos-correct-resolution-prevent-blur-on-retina).

## Conclusion

Ship **separate print and web derivatives**; use [resize](/resizer) and [convert](/convert) for web output.