High-resolution images (1MB+) look great—but they slow proposals down. For the best ClientCart™ experience for your Proposal Templates, use web-optimized images: correct pixel dimensions, the right file type, and smart compression.
TL;DR (what to aim for)
Target file size: 150–300 KB per image (stay under ~500 KB for hero images).
Resolution: 72 ppi is perfect for screens.
File type: JPG for photos; PNG only if you truly need transparency or crisp flat graphics; WEBP if available.
Color profile: sRGB (default on most tools).
Recommended Image Dimensions for ClientCart™ Packages
Choose dimensions based on how the image is placed in your Proposal Template:
Single-column package: 1200 × 300 (or 1800 × 300 if the image needs extra detail)
2-column packages: 1200 × 500
3-column packages: 800 × 500
Screen resolution: ≥ 72 ppi
Tip: Cropping to these exact pixel sizes will give you the sharpest look at the smallest file size.
The Right File Type (and When)
JPG (preferred for photos): Smallest size, adjustable quality. Aim for 60–80% quality.
PNG (for graphics/transparency): Larger files—use only if you need a transparent background or ultra-crisp line art.
WEBP (if your tool offers it): Smaller than JPG with similar quality. Great for photos and graphics (no transparency needed in most cases).
Canva: Best Export Settings for Small Files
When downloading from Canva:
Click “Share” → “Download.”
File type: Choose JPG (preferred) or WEBP if available.
Size slider: Set to 100% unless you designed larger than needed—then reduce to match the target pixel dimensions above.
Compression: Enable “Compress file (lower quality)”. Start around 70–80% quality (or the Canva equivalent).
Transparent background: Only turn this on if you must have transparency (forces PNG and larger sizes).
Download and verify the file size is ~150–300 KB. If larger, reduce quality a bit more or downscale the image size.
Quick Canva checklist: JPG + Compress on + target pixels matched = fast-loading proposals.
Mac (Preview): Resize & Compress in Under a Minute
Resize to exact pixels:
Open the image in Preview.
Go to Tools → Adjust Size…
Set Units = Pixels and enter the Width × Height from the table above.
Resolution: set 72 ppi.
Click OK.
Compress on export:
Go to File → Export…
Format: JPEG
Move the Quality slider until the estimated size is around 150–300 KB.
Save.
Need transparency? Export PNG, but expect a larger file. Only do this if the background must be transparent.
Windows (Photos app): Quick Resize
Method A: Photos app
Right-click the image → Open with → Photos.
Click the ••• menu (top right) → Resize.
Choose Define custom dimensions and enter target Width × Height.
Choose JPG and adjust quality toward medium/high—aim for 150–300 KB.
Save.
Method B: Paint (works everywhere)
Right-click → Open with → Paint.
Click Resize → choose Pixels → enter Width × Height → keep Maintain aspect ratio checked if appropriate.
File → Save As → JPEG and name your new file.
If it’s still large, try slightly smaller dimensions or re-save using an online JPEG compressor (set quality ~70–80%).
Quick Decision Guide
It’s a photo (people, venues, decor): Use JPG, 70–80% quality, target pixels from the table.
It’s a logo or flat graphic with transparency: Use PNG, target pixels, and keep file size reasonable; if too large, simplify the graphic or remove transparency.
You have WEBP available: Try WEBP—you’ll often get JPG-level quality at a smaller size.
Common Pitfalls (and Fixes)
“I exported the right pixels, but the file is still huge.”
Lower the quality slider (JPG/WEBP) from 100% to 70–80%—visual difference is minimal, size savings are huge.“My image looks blurry in a column.”
Check you used the correct Width × Height for that column type; avoid stretching a smaller image into a larger slot.“I need transparency for a cut-out product.”
PNG is fine—just keep the pixel dimensions tight and consider a subtle background instead of transparency if file size is critical.