How to Fix Low-Resolution Photos: 5 Proven Methods for Stunning Results

We’ve all been there—flipping through old photos only to find cherished memories marred by pixelation or blur. Whether it’s a family portrait, a vacation snapshot, or a creative masterpiece, low-resolution photos can feel like a lost cause. But what if there was a way to breathe new life into those images?

In this guide, we’ll explore how to fix low-resolution photos using five effective methods, with a special focus on Aiarty Image Enhancer, the ultimate AI-powered tool for restoring and upscaling images. From beginner-friendly solutions to professional-grade techniques, you’ll discover how to transform your low-res photos into high-quality masterpieces.

Why Fixing Low-Resolution Photos Matters

Low-resolution photos are more than just a nuisance—they’re a barrier to preserving memories and showcasing creativity. Here’s why fixing them is essential:

• Emotional Value: Old photos often hold irreplaceable memories. Restoring them allows you to relive those moments in vivid detail.
• Professional Needs: For photographers, designers, and content creators, high-resolution images are non-negotiable for printing, marketing, and display.
• Digital Sharing: In today’s visually driven world, crisp, clear images are key to making an impact on social media or personal projects.

What Is Image Resolution?

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand what image resolution is and why it matters.

Resolution refers to the number of pixels in an image, typically measured in width x height (e.g., 1920x1080). Higher resolution means more pixels, resulting in sharper, more detailed images.

Why Low Resolution Affects Quality

When you enlarge a low-resolution photo, the software stretches the existing pixels, leading to pixelation, blur, and a loss of detail. This makes the image appear grainy or distorted, especially when printed or displayed on larger screens.

5 Effective Methods to Fix Low-Resolution Photos

Here are five proven methods to enhance your low-resolution photos, each with its own unique strengths.

Method 1: Use Aiarty Image Enhancer (Recommended)

Aiarty Image Enhancer is a game-changer for anyone looking to fix low-resolution photos. This AI-powered tool combines upscaling, deblurring, denoising, and detail enhancement into one seamless process.

• Upscaling to 4K/8K/32K: Transform low-res images into stunning high-resolution masterpieces.
• Restore with more details: AI-infer and restore realistic details, based on large image training dataset.
• Batch Processing: Enhance 100 photos in just 2 minutes—perfect for large collections.
• Specialized AI Models: Tailored for old photos, AI-generated art, product images, and more.

How to Fix Low Resolution Photos Easily

Step 1. Download Aiarty Image Enhancer for Windows or Mac.

Fix Low-res Photos with Aiarty Image Enhancer

• Fix low-resolution imgaes in batch with lower spec reqs.
• High quality outputs up to 32K on Windows and 16K on Mac
• More AI models to choose from for various enhancing needs
• Customizable image prompts and text-editing functions

Free Download Free Download

Free Download

Step 2. Import low quality images into this AI image quality enhancer, and select an AI model.

You can drag and drop multiple images in batch. Aiarty supports formats like JPG, PNG, TIFF, and RAW images.

• To restore details, use the More-detail model.
• If you prioritize smoothness and fidelity, upscaling with the Smooth model.
• For photography, use the Real-Photo model.
• If you also need to restore faces, toggle on the option.

Step 3. Upscale the image to increase resolution, while deblurring and denoising in on go.

Choose from presets like 2x, 4x, or 8x, or customize the resolution to fit your needs.

You can zoom in with real-time preview, and make sure low quality aspects – such as compression artifacts, high ISO noise, color speckles, blurry visuals are fixed automatically.

For instance, above is a street photography taken on my old iPhone. After quality fix with Aiarty Image Enhancer, we can zoom in to inspect the details. The lines are clear now, and textures are restored naturally as shown below.

Once everything is set, batch export your enhanced photos in the preferred format, ready for printing or sharing.

Test 1: Fix low quality, heavily compressed image

Above is a portrait image sent from my friend via Messenger app. It is compressed twice after downloading and transferring, as you can see the blocky pixels and color speckles. On the right side, it is enhanced by Aiarty Image Enhancer, using the More-Detail model, x2 upscaling.

Test 2: Fix low quality, low light photos

Above is a dawn photography shot on my old iPhone 6 in Hamburg, which suffers from high ISO noise and low resolution due to the mediocre sensor. Using the Real-Photo model and x2 uspcaling, Aiarty Image Enhancer can automatically clean up the image, and increase resolution without losing quality.

Why Aiarty Image Enhancer Is the Best Choice

Aiarty’s speed, quality, and affordability make it the go-to tool for fixing low-resolution photos. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual user, its user-friendly interface and advanced AI capabilities always ensure exceptional results.

Method 2: Try Other AI-Powered Tools

2.1 Topaz Gigapixel AI

Despite the numerous alternatives, Topaz Gigapixel AI is a premium tool favored by professional photographers for its ability to upscale images while preserving fine details.

Strengths:

• High-detail upscaling up to 6x.
• Advanced noise reduction and sharpening.

Drawbacks:

• Expensive subscription model ($99.99/year).
• Requires a powerful computer for optimal performance.

2.2 Upscayl (Free & Open-Source)

Upscayl is a free, community-driven tool that’s perfect for beginners or those on a budget.

Strengths:

• Free 4x upscaling.
• Multiple AI models for different image types.

Drawbacks:

• Lacks advanced features like deblurring or batch processing.
• Limited to basic enhancements.

2.3 SuperID

To enhance your low-resolution photos, consider utilizing SuperID, an AI-powered photo enhancer developed by PiktID. SuperID specializes in sharpening facial details, transforming blurry or underwhelming portraits into stunning images with exceptional clarity.

Key Features of SuperID:

• Crystal-Clear Facial Details: SuperID's advanced algorithms meticulously restore facial features, ensuring every face appears sharp and lifelike.
• Flexible Integration: SuperID offers comprehensive API documentation, allowing seamless integration into your existing workflows or platforms.
• Secure and Scalable: As a cloud-based solution, SuperID ensures data privacy with advanced security measures and is designed to scale according to your needs.

Whether you're a professional photographer aiming to enhance your portfolio or someone looking to restore cherished family photos, SuperID provides a user-friendly platform to elevate your images to new levels of clarity and detail.

When to Use These Tools

If you’re a professional seeking the highest possible detail, Topaz Gigapixel AI is worth the investment. For casual users or those on a budget, Upscayl offers a solid free alternative.

Method 3: Manual Editing with Traditional Software

If you don't need batch enhancing images, you can manually fix low resolution photos with Photoshop. To get started, learn how to upscale images in Photoshop.

Steps to Fix Low Quality Images in Photoshop

1. Open your image in Photoshop.
2. Go to Image > Image Size and select “Preserve Details 2.0” under Resample.
3. Increase the resolution and adjust sharpening settings.
4. Use tools like Unsharp Mask or Smart Sharpen to refine details.

Pros:

• Full control over adjustments.
• Ideal for complex edits like retouching or compositing.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve.
• Expensive subscription ($20.99/month).

If you'd prefer a manual touch from a professional, the subreddit r/PhotoshopRequest is an excellent resource. Simply post your photo, and skilled editors will submit their restored versions. You can then choose your favorite result and tip the artist to receive the final, watermark-free image.

Method 4: Online Image Enhancers

If you prefer to quickly fix one or two low resolution images online, BigJPG is a powerful AI-based solution online. It uses a deep convolutional neural network to minimize jagged edges during the upscaling process.

Steps to Fix Low Resolution Photos with BigJPG

1. Go to the BigJPG website: https://bigjpg.com/en
2. Upload your low-resolution image.
3. Choose your desired upscale settings (e.g., magnification level, noise reduction).
4. Start the processing and wait for the AI to enhance your image.
5. Download the high-resolution result.

Pros:

• Much simpler to use than complex software like Photoshop.
• Effectively minimizes the blur, halos, and noise.

Cons:

• File Size Limits: The free version has upload limits (3000x3000px, 5MB).
• No suitable for batch processing images, and uploading is slowly.

Method 5: Prevent Low Resolution from the Start

Camera Settings Tips

• hoot in RAW: RAW files retain more detail than compressed formats like JPG.
• Avoid Digital Zoom: Use optical zoom or move closer to your subject to maintain resolution.
• Use High-Resolution Modes: Many cameras offer settings for high-resolution photos—enable them for critical shots.

Reshooting or Rescanning Old Photos

• High-DPI Scanning: Use a scanner with at least 600 DPI to capture every detail of physical prints.
• Proper Lighting: Ensure even lighting to avoid shadows or overexposure.
• Digital Backup: Save scanned photos in high-resolution formats like TIFF for future use.

When to Use These Tips

Prevention is always better than cure. Follow these tips to ensure your photos are high-resolution from the start, saving time and effort in post-processing.

FAQ: Common Questions About Fixing Low-Resolution Photos

1. Can I fix a low-resolution photo without losing quality?

Yes, AI tools like Aiarty Image Enhancer can upscale photos while preserving or even enhancing quality.

2. What’s the best tool for restoring old photos?

Aiarty Image Enhancer is highly recommended for its specialized AI models and user-friendly interface.

3. Is it possible to fix a blurry photo?

Absolutely! Tools like Aiarty can deblur and denoise photos, restoring clarity and detail.

4. How much does it cost to upscale a photo?

While some tools like Upscayl are free, premium options like Aiarty offer advanced features for a one-time purchase.

5. Can I upscale photos on my phone?

Yes, many online tools like Let’s Enhance are mobile-friendly, though desktop software like Aiarty offers superior results.

Conclusion: Bring Your Memories Back to Life

Fixing low-resolution photos doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With tools like Aiarty Image Enhancer, you can transform blurry, pixelated images into stunning high-resolution masterpieces. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a creative professional, or someone looking to preserve cherished memories, these methods offer something for everyone.

Ready to get started? Download Aiarty Image Enhancer today and see the difference for yourself!