The quick answer
Upscaling means making a picture larger. Some AI tools also make up new details. A sharper result may show things that were never in the original.
Choose the size you need. Keep the original and check important details. A bigger file is not always a better picture.
In this article
Keep these in mind
- Judge results at the same display size.
- Check faces, letters and repeated patterns.
- Keep the source for comparison.
1. Decide how large the image needs to be
Find out what size the website or printer needs. You do not have to use the largest size a tool offers.
Changing only a print-resolution number does not add real detail. Start with the clearest, largest original you are allowed to use.
2. Inspect the source
Look for blur, blocky patches or damage from earlier edits. Decide what must stay true, such as a face, label or pattern.
For a product, keep the original label beside the result. The letters must be correct, not just easy to see.
3. Pick the method for the job
Photoshop offers Generative Upscale. Check Adobe’s current guide for the models and buttons in your version.
A model is the AI system that makes the result. Use gentle settings when real details matter. An effect that suits artwork may change a real face too much.
Read more: Photoshop generative AI features
4. Compare the output with the original
First view both pictures at the size people will use them. Then zoom the larger result to 100%. Check small details that look clear but may be wrong.
- Eyes, teeth, hairlines and skin texture.
- Letters, logos, labels and numbers.
- Fabric weave, jewelry, repeating tiles and straight edges.
- Noise, halos and oversharpened outlines.
5. Keep only a useful result
Did an important feature change? Try a gentler setting or keep that area from the original. Do not say the AI recovered the exact missing detail.
Open and check the saved copy too. For a print, a small sample at the final scale can show problems you missed on screen.
Sources & further reading
Product features can change. Check the linked documentation for the version and service you use.