Setting Up Photoshop Files For Print

[kungfujunky]

Having just completed a big calendar project, I learned (the hard way) that pro printers like to get the files in PDF format. Clicking the Save As > PDF brought up a worryingly complex set of options, to which an application of common sense and estimation failed in giving the print co. what they needed. With any luck, the calendar will be a success, and I'll get more business of a similar ilk, so I'd like to educate myself in how to prepare files for print. I'm certain that there a few articles on this hidden in my enormo-stack of photo magazines, but I was wondering if you guys out there had any tips of our own, or could reccomend websites/books/training courses that will help me.

Much appreciated!
Bo Davies.
www.myladylieswaiting.deviantart.com

[OldBoy]

Check the Adobe website for Adobe Acrobat which is their PDF program.

I'm not sure about other programs which produce PDF's, but with Acrobat you set the print up as if your are printing to a printer, but instead of selecting a printer you select Acrobat as your printer. This also means you need the profile of the printer that is the final destination. Once it set up as a PDF then it can't be changed unless you/they have Acrobat.

[Ince]

Hi kungfujunky

I work in the digital reception for a local paper, the best bit of advice I can give you is to speak to the printer. They should be able to provide you with a technical spec of what they require which will allow you to set up your acrobat as well as a colour profile. If you are unsure about any info or what you need to do ask them. If they are switched on and provide a good service I would hope they would spend the 10 or 15 min getting you set up.

I wish more people would contact me when sending artwork rather than just sending and hoping its right.

You will also find that once you have you set up right for one printer it may only be odd tweaks needed, change colour profile etc for another.