What does the acronym DPI stand for in digital photography?

The acronym DPI stands for "dots per inch," which is a key measurement in digital photography relating to the resolution of printed images. This term defines the number of individual dots that can be placed in a line within the span of one inch. A higher DPI indicates a greater density of dots, which generally results in a sharper and more detailed image when printed. Understanding DPI is crucial for photographers, especially when preparing images for high-quality prints, as it directly affects the clarity and quality of the final output. By manipulating DPI settings, photographers can optimize their images for various output formats, ensuring that they maintain quality regardless of their size or the medium on which they are displayed. The concept of DPI is integral to the relationship between digital image quality and physical print quality.