Preparing your image file for print

Preparing your image file for print.

At Guru Printers we offer a project review service that covers various technical issues to ensure you make the most out of your printed material. It’s assuring to know that printing services can double check your files to make sure everything is intact.  Here are our tips to get your image file print-ready and leave the rest to us!

1.) Set image files to CMYK

Setting the design you want printed to CMYK color mode will make the greatest difference when it comes to the final print.
Most monitors and design programs are set to a default of RGB. Changing the setting to CMYK within your design program ensures that you will have the optimum color fidelity before going to print.

Quick tips on checking and setting your files on various programs:

• Photoshop: Image > Mode > CMYK Color
• Illustrator: File > Document Color Mode > CMYK Color
• InDesign: Window > Color

2.) Select Vectors or Rasters.

Most photographs and many kinds of artwork are generally rasterized. As an image is enlarged in print it’s pixels become more apparent with the naked eye. However, if your image is of high or at least sufficient quality then this shouldn’t be a problem.  Vectors files allow high image clarity, definition and sharpness at any size.

• Go with Adobe InDesign and Adobe Illustrator if you select vectors.

• Go with Adobe Photoshop for all rasterized images with an image resolution of at least 300 DPI.

3.) Locate your bleed areas

The bleed is the portion of your print design which will be cut after printing. A general rule of thumb is that the background pattern or color in your image should “bleed” or extend beyond the edge of the design where the cut will be made. A bleed can offer a more tight and professional look, ensuring that your background extend to the edge of your postcard, business card, sticker or just about any printed material.  If you do decide for no bleed make sure any white borders around your design are intentional and not due to proper bleed setting.  Take a look at our print templates to help you.

4.) Pick the right formats for saving your image.

Here is a list of the image formats which we recommend you save your files as.

• JPG
• JPEG
• PNG
• TIF
• EPS
• Illustrator

Having a print-ready file before going to print will make your printing experience easier and ensure a great printed product in the end.  Contact one of our associates if you need any further assistance with our custom quality printing services.