Digital File Preparation Tips Pt. 1: Prepping RGB Files for Digital Photographic Output
Posted by Marty Kauls on Tue, Dec 29, 2009 @ 03:38 PM
Getting your digital files to print correctly does not have to be a frustrating endeavor; you just have to make sure that your files are correctly prepared. Over the next two blog posts, I will describe file preparation tips for RGB (digital photographic) and CMYK (digital screen) output. I am splitting this topic into two posts because we output to both RGB and CMYK devices (Durst Lambda and Durst Rho, respectively), both of which have different requirements. This post will focus on preparing RGB files for photographic output.
Image Preparation: Images should be saved as RGB TIFF or EPS files at 200 dpi final size (a minimum of 100 dpi). For example, if a 10x10 InDesign document needs to be output at 400%, the placed image file needs to be 40x40 at 100 dpi or equivalent.
Program Support: InDesign up to CS4, Illustrator up to CS4, and Photoshop up to CS4.
Filename Extension: Ensure filenames are properly updated in all layouts. Please include appropriate extensions (for example, filename.eps).
Layout Accuracy: Provide one accurate and fully updated color copy of each layout for proofing and placement checking purposes. If discrepancies exist between hard copy and supplied digital files, indicate and initial changes.
Color Matching: Include Pantone® numbers or their equivalents for all solid colors. For continuous tone images, provide a hard copy or a sample that is color accurate.
Bleed: Include .25” bleed on all jobs that require mounting or die cutting.
Fonts: Always supply all font suitcases, including both screen and printer fonts. Whenever possible, convert type to outlines.
PC Files: Please follow these guidelines for file creation on a PC:
- Illustrator - convert text to outlines and save as an EPS file.
- Photoshop - render text, do not use text layer files, and include all elements associated with the file (for example, vector graphics and image files).
InDesign: When creating layouts in InDesign, the maximum document width is 216”, making it easier and more accurate to create large layouts at 100% size.
Illustrator: When creating layouts in Illustrator, use a minimum document size of 25% of the final size. Include all linked images. Save files as AI format. Convert strokes to outlined paths on all vector artwork and text. Important - convert all fonts to outline.
Logos: For best results, supply all logos as VECTOR files from Illustrator, not as raster files such as PhotoShop EPS, JPEG, GIF, or TIFF.
Stay tuned - our next post will focus on setting up files for CMYK output.