Centimetres, pixels and DPI — in plain words
A digital photo has no physical size; it only has pixels. Centimetres appear when the photo is printed or when a form converts pixels at a chosen DPI (dots per inch). One inch is 2.54 cm, so:
| DPI | Width (3.5 cm) | Height (4.5 cm) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 207 px | 266 px | Very small KB limits (10–30 KB) |
| 200 | 276 px | 354 px | Most online forms (20–50 KB) |
| 300 | 413 px | 531 px | Printing, or portals allowing 100–200 KB |
Formula: pixels = cm ÷ 2.54 × DPI. If a form says “3.5 × 4.5 cm, 20–50 KB” and nothing about pixels, the 200 DPI preset is a balanced choice.
How to take a photo that passes
- Background: plain white or very light wall, no patterns or shadows.
- Light: face a window in daytime; avoid overhead tube-light shadows.
- Pose: look straight, mouth closed, both ears visible, no tilt.
- Distance: camera 1–1.5 m away at eye level; avoid selfie distortion.
- Accessories: no cap or dark glasses; spectacles only without glare if allowed.
Using the tool
- Choose a DPI preset. The KB window is pre-filled; change it under “Edit the numbers” if your notice says otherwise.
- Upload your photo and drag it so your face is centred, with a little space above the head.
- Use Zoom until the face fills roughly three quarters of the height.
- Press Create. Green ticks mean the exact pixels and KB range are met.
Related sizes you may need
Bank exams usually specify pixels (200 × 230 px) — see IBPS sizes. Some forms want the name and date printed under the photo — use Photo with Name and Date. For a signature in centimetres, see the SSC 6 × 2 cm signature tool.