Why Does a Downloaded Photo Look Blocky?
By ImgHeal · Updated
Trace compression artifacts to the source, export, download, or display scale before applying restoration.
Identify where the problem begins
Compare the downloaded file with the source at the same size. Check pixel dimensions and file size; a preview or messaging copy may be much smaller than the original.
Create a safe diagnostic copy
Download again from the original export rather than saving a web preview. If you control the export, use a higher quality setting or a lossless working copy, while keeping the untouched master.
Verify the corrected file
Inspect faces, gradients, and sharp edges for blocks and ringing. Restoration may disguise artifacts but cannot recreate authentic detail removed by compression, so locate the best source first.
Check before you finish
- Match display scale.
- Check actual pixel dimensions.
- Return to the best available source.
Continue with a related guide
Try a restoration on a copy of your photo
Keep the original scan. Upload a separate digital copy, review ImgHeal’s generated result, and decide whether it suits your needs.
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