How to Resize Images Without Distortion
Learn how aspect ratio, cropping, stretching, and target dimensions affect image resize quality.
To resize without distortion, keep the original aspect ratio. Aspect ratio is the relationship between width and height. If you change one side, the other side should usually scale by the same proportion.
For example, a 1600 x 900 image has a 16:9 ratio. Resizing it to 800 x 450 keeps the same shape. Resizing it to 800 x 800 stretches or squashes the content unless you crop.
Simple rule
If the destination needs a different shape, crop. If it needs the same shape at a different size, resize. Avoid forcing both width and height unless you know the final image should be stretched.
The Image Resize Tool keeps aspect ratio enabled by default so ordinary resizing does not distort the image.
FAQ
What causes distorted images?
Distortion happens when width and height are changed independently instead of preserving the original aspect ratio.
Is cropping better than stretching?
Usually yes. Cropping removes part of the image, while stretching changes the shape of everything inside it.
Resources
References
Use these references to move between the guide, the matching supporting pages, and the people behind the content.
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Read guideHow to Resize Images for Social Media: Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedInGet the right image dimensions for Instagram posts, YouTube thumbnails, Twitter cards, and LinkedIn profiles using free browser tools that keep your files private.
Read guideWhy Do Images Look Blurry After Uploading?A practical troubleshooting guide for blurry uploaded images, covering resize limits, compression, retina displays, and format choices.
Read guideLeon PatelCreates how-to guides and photo tips that keep the advice simple, clear, and ready to use in Gift Studio.
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