Cropping and resizing both change image dimensions, but they work differently. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right approach.
What is Cropping?
Cropping removes parts of the image:
- Cuts out edges or sections
- Remaining portion is unchanged
- Changes composition
- May change aspect ratio
What is Resizing?
Resizing scales the entire image:
- Makes image larger or smaller
- All content preserved
- Proportions typically maintained
- Same composition
Visual Comparison
Original
1920x1080 photo of a person in a room
After Cropping to 1:1
- Focus on the person
- Room background removed
- Result: 1000x1000 square of the person
After Resizing to 50%
- Same photo, same content
- Everything smaller
- Result: 960x540 with same composition
When to Crop
- Remove unwanted elements
- Change composition focus
- Create different aspect ratio
- Make profile pictures from full photos
- Highlight specific areas
When to Resize
- Reduce file size
- Fit specific dimensions
- Prepare for web/email
- Match platform requirements
- Scale multiple images consistently
Using Both Together
Often you'll need both:
- Crop to frame content correctly.
- Resize to match required dimensions.
Rune's Tools
- Image Cropper: Remove parts, change composition
- Image Resizer: Scale entire image
Conclusion
Crop to change composition, resize to change size. Use Rune's Image Cropper for focused cuts and Image Resizer for scaling.