Resizing images on your Mac is a breeze, thanks to the built-in Preview app. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on using Preview for simple and batch resizing, along with tips for maintaining image quality and exploring advanced editing options.
Adjusting image size in Preview
Resizing Images with Preview
Preview, your Mac’s default image viewer, doubles as a powerful editing tool. Here’s how to resize a single image:
- Open the Image: Double-click the image file. Preview should launch automatically.
- Access Markup Tools: Click the Markup icon in the top menu bar (it might be hidden behind the “>>” symbol).
- Adjust Size: Click the Adjust Size icon within Markup mode.
- Enter Dimensions: A pop-up window will appear. Input your desired width and height. Ensure the “Scale proportionally” box is checked to maintain the aspect ratio. Click OK.
Setting new dimensions in Preview
Saving Your Changes: By default, Preview overwrites the original file. To save a copy, go to File > Export… and choose a new file name.
Batch Resizing in Preview
Need to resize multiple images at once? Preview handles that too:
- Select Images: In Finder, select all the images you want to resize.
- Open in Preview: Right-click and choose Open With… > Preview.
- Select All: In Preview, select all thumbnails using Command + A.
- Adjust Size: Go to Tools > Adjust Size…
- Enter Dimensions: Set your desired dimensions and click OK. Remember, this will overwrite the original files. Create copies beforehand if needed.
Batch resizing images in Preview
Resizing Without Losing Quality
Downsizing images can sometimes lead to quality loss. Here are some tips to minimize this:
- Determine Optimal Size: Figure out the exact dimensions needed for your final use. Avoid significantly enlarging smaller images.
- Use the Quality Slider: When exporting, adjust the quality slider for optimal results. This often appears as a “Quality” or “Compression” setting.
Adjusting image quality during export
Cropping Images in Preview
Cropping is another way to reduce image size by removing unnecessary areas:
- Open the Image in Preview: Double-click the image file.
- Enter Markup Mode: Click the Markup icon.
- Select Area: Click and drag to select the area you want to keep.
- Crop: Click the Crop to Selection icon.
Cropping an image in Preview
Alternative Resizing Methods
While Preview is highly effective, other options exist:
- Pages: Apple’s word processor offers basic image resizing capabilities. Select an image and drag its edges or use the “Format” sidebar to adjust dimensions.
- Third-Party Apps: For advanced needs like batch conversions and AI-powered enhancements, consider tools like Permute and Luminar Neo. These offer features like format conversion and AI-powered resizing.
Resizing and converting images with Permute
Resizing during export in Luminar Neo
Whether you need a quick resize or more advanced editing, your Mac provides a range of tools to handle any image resizing task. Utilizing these methods will ensure your photos are perfectly sized for your needs.
