File Preparation

LARGE FORMAT PRINTING-FILE PREPARATION

Definition: Large Format Printing includes short run printing of items either by Ink Jet, Electrostatic or Paint Jet technologies. Quantities are from 1-50, and sizes are from 12" x 18" to Billboard Size.

Whether you are creating original artwork on your desktop, or providing artwork to a manufacturer, you need to understand the limitations of the technology, and what you can expect.

COLOR: What you see on your computer monitor, your proof from a desktop printer, and what you will get when your project is produced will all be different.
Rule 1: Color Calibration is a myth. Each output device and all print media have their own color characteristics. The same image output on bond paper will be totally different when output on vinyl or photographic glossy paper. Each batch of ink, each roll of paper, heat or cold or humidity, all will affect the color of an image. Each person perceives color differently. Sunlight is different than office light which is different than incandescent light.
Rule 2: You can only color correct part of an image. Because each paper and output device have color shifts at different parts of the spectrum, adjusting a logo to reduce the amount of Magenta or Cyan may make the logo appear exactly accurate, however, other areas of the image will also be affected and may shift in unanticipated ways. Unless the vendor is able to manipulate individual components of the image, matching one part of the image may prove disastrous to the overall image. Macintosh EPS files, which cannot be manipulated are particularly problematic. Try to provide the image in a NATIVE FORMAT which the vendor can manipulate.
Rule 3: Your file won't work. This is more a of Murphy's Law than a rule. Anticipate problems by providing the file in different file formats. Provide a color proof so that the manufacturer will know what the job should look like.
Rule 4: Select the correct output methodology and materials for your job. Each output methodology and material has it's limitations. (See PRODUCTION OPTIONS: and INK-JET MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE)

File Preparation: Most files should be produced in PostScript format (EPS or PS).
Several file formats should be included, PostScript, Adobe Illustrator (AI), as well as the native format of the application. Include all fonts (outline and bitmap!!!), Bitmapped Graphic images (TIF,JPEG, GIF,PCX, BMP, PICT, etc.) on the disk. WARNING: Designers often forget to include the LOGO fonts when enclosing logos. Ask about these specifically.
Include a hard copy output, either in color or black and white. (both are preferable)
If there are logos involved or areas of exact color matching required, include the Pantone Colors (PMS).
Verify that the vendor has the same storage medium (CD-ROM, ZIP DRIVE, Etc.)

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