resizing

[scoobie]

i'm also having troubles resizing an image into a smaller file. when i change the dimensions, the dpi goes up; if i change the dpi, the dimensions go up. I cannot save a file at 300x300 (for example) at all! what is the deal with this program? I have never been so frustrated with PSE before and believe me I am the most ignorant (although I'm not stupid) Photoshop person around. I can't even use regular Photoshop. Right now I would prolly have less troubles with regular PS than I am with PSE 6.

[Codebreaker]

Resizing and trying to make a smaller file are two different things.

Resizing concerns changing the Pixel Dimensions of the image. Is this what you are trying to do or do you just need a smaller file e.g. less Megabytes?

Colin

[cats4jan]

If you are looking for a way to post things on the net, use "save for web"

You can then set the size you want for one side and it will change the other side to the correct size to keep the item in perspective. Then look to the quality setting - most forums require under 150kb - easily achieved by using the "quality" slider. Choose jpg on the top left of that screen.

Then save as jpg using a new name - I usually put 150 in front of the file name to denote web sizing.

[Karin Sue]

Scoobie,

Unless the "resample image" box is checked PS will not change the pixel dimensions, just the relative size and resolution.

With resample image checked you can add or discard pixels. You can distort the image if you uncheck constrain proportions.

Play around a little checking and unchecking the boxes, changing the numbers, etc. to get a feel for what is happening.

Be sure to work on a copy when you are resizing so as not to lose your original data.

My workflow for what it sounds like you are trying to do would be:
Set rectangular marquee to constrained aspect ratio: 1,1 (or 300,300)
Make a selection.
Edit>Copy
File>New from clipboard
Image>resize>change pixel dimensions to 300 x300 --(resample image box checked to make pixel dimensions changeable)