Meeting photo size limits when submitting documents
Key points
- Enter a target size and it fits automatically
- 1 MB is 1024 KB; aim for 1000 KB
- Always check the text is still readable
Job applications, grant programs and exam registrations often say things like "files must be 1 MB or less" or "upload a photo under 500 KB". Phone photos are often 2 to 5 MB each, so they won't go through as they are.
The fastest way: set a target size
In compress images, type a number into Target size and the highest quality that fits is found for you. If quality alone isn't enough, the image is also scaled down a little at a time. The quality and size used are shown next to the result.
1 MB is 1024 KB. For "1 MB or less", aim for about 1000 KB to be safe.
Check the format rules too
- "JPG only": choose JPG as the format. Convert iPhone HEIC photos with HEIC to JPG first.
- "Submit as PDF": make a PDF with combine images into a PDF and choose Fit to A4.
- "One file only": combine several documents with merge PDF files.
When there is a photo size rule
A rule like "3 cm × 4 cm" means the photo must have a 3:4 ratio. Rotate and crop can crop to 3:4. If a pixel size is given (for example 300×400), enter the max width and height as well.
Taking clear photos of documents
- Shoot straight down in good light, without shadows across the page.
- Place the paper on a darker surface so its edges stand out.
- Zoom in to check the text is readable before shrinking the file. Shrinking too much can blur the text and get your submission rejected.