When Good Colors Go Bad

Even with the popularity of digital know-how, and the availability of equipment and application associated with it, plenty of printing firms are still slow to make the changes needed to upgrade their business. More so when it comes to digital photography.

Most of the time, most typical printing outfits are no set up to method digital files that bad results do happen. Mistakes are often made such as conversions of files to CMYK doing irreparable destroy to the images, and the operator trying to rectify his mistakes by fixing it with a series of layers, selections, masks and adjustments. These further aggravates the already damaged file by introducing new issues like banding, and colors that look muddy, desaturated, neutralized, and unappealing.

But this situation can be avoided and great results can be achieved. In the event you feel that you are not getting the best output for your digital camera images, here are a few key tips for you:

Tip 1: PROFILES

It is a must to ask your selected printer whether they honor embedded RGB profiles. This would mean that they have the capacity to handle RGB color separation work. In the event that they needn't get your RGB file, or they appear like they don't care or understand what you are saying, then it is time for you to go to another printer.

Tip 2: CALIBRATED

Keep in mind to make use of shops and facilities that regularly calibrate their displays. This can be done with a hardware calibration method.

Tip 3: INK JET PRINTS

To keep away from second-guessing where the mistakes rest, it is better to provide your printer with prints, to alert operators to potential issues.

Tip 4: SHARPNESS

Although well-sharpened images look a bit intimidating when viewed in Photoshop, at: 1, your picture will print well. Great sharpness is necessary when you are dealing with coarser screens and uncoated stocks.

Tip 5: FOR POSITION ONLY

Layouts showing FPO images cropped and scaled will help printers provide optimum and sharpened result to your picture.

Tip 6: COLOR CHECKER

With each new set up for color reference, printer suggests that you ask your photographer to do a shot of his Gretag MacBeth "Color Checker" target.

Tip 7: RAW FILES

Ask your photographer in the event that they or they can offer you digital camera raw files. These raw files will offer you the greatest latitude and quality in the hands of professional operators.

The best way to go about this issue is to fundamentally deal with printing companies whose prepress staffs understand the basics of color management. Individuals who know and are specialists on the advantages of digital raw camera files, and document them to you when asked.

If not, then it is better for you to CHANGE now.