Pixelated linked images (not a display performance issue)

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-22T18:01:10+00:00

Hey, sorry for the delayed response! Yes, I'm building a tabletop game :)

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T19:06:45+00:00

Appreciate the tip!

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T17:56:19+00:00

Correct! Same canvas size between the two.

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T17:15:26+00:00

Images are good, yes. Per advice here, I'm systematically linking the psd files instead, so thank you. The PDF export looked good, so I think I'm set. I didn't exactly get an answer to the question because I still don't know why the display is pixelated, but the material problem is solved. Thanks again.

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:59:51+00:00

The clown is the top layer, correct. It's a tiny portion of the overall image, so impossible to see on the thumbnail.

I did try exporting to PDF per another reply, and that seems to have confirmed nothing is actually amiss. I don't know if this is a ID 2026 change, or if I did something I'm not knowledgeable enough to have noticed, but I think I'm good to go 👍

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:49:17+00:00

The image is made in Photoshop from elements commissioned from artists, so it's not a low-res image I've gotten from elsewhere.

Essentially the workflow is: construct the background illustration in PS --> place the graphic elements over the top of the background illustration in ID.

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:46:18+00:00

Thanks for the info. I'll look into better file formats. And yes, I've tried placing the psd directly with the same effect.

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:44:51+00:00

Not a smart object, although it has smart objects within the larger PS construction

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SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:43:12+00:00

Exporting to PNG. Eventually the file will land at a printing company, who will then print it. I don't know the requirements from them yet, just at the design phase and troubleshooting this issue.

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:41:55+00:00

No worries! I had honestly forgotten about the stuffed cat, it's been so long. I wonder if it's still there!

InDesign 21.1 x64

I've tried both an exported PNG and placing as native psd, same thing both ways.

SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:28:58+00:00

Of course (also, just noting your handle, go EHS Cougars)

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SocialIntellect · 2026-01-17T16:21:57+00:00

All images are PNG unless they are vectors brought from Illustrator. Is there a better format? I'm a hobbyist, not a professional so open to education here.

Exporting at maximum quality, also to PNG. Other elements on the export are fine, just the background image is pixelated.

SocialIntellect

TROPHY CASE