When good color goes bad...
Even with the popularity of digital technology, and the
availability of equipment and software associated with it, many
printing firms are still slow to make the changes needed to
upgrade their business. More so when it comes to digital
photography.
More often than not, most typical printing outfits are no set up
to process digital files that bad results do happen. Mistakes
are often made such as conversions of files to CMYK doing
irreparable damage 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 problems like banding,
and colors that look muddy, desaturated, neutralized, and
unappealing.
But this situation can be avoided and great results can be
achieved. If 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's a must to ask your chosen printer whether they honor
embedded RGB profiles. This would mean that they have the
capacity to handle RGB color separation work. If they don't want
to get your RGB file, or they seem like they don't care or
understand what you're saying, then it's time for you to go to
another printer.
Tip 2: CALIBRATED
Remember to use shops and facilities that regularly calibrate
their displays. This can be done with a hardware calibration
system.
Tip 3: INK JET PRINTS
To avoid second-guessing where the mistakes rest, it is better
to just provide your printer with prints, especially to alert
operators to potential problems.
Tip 4: SHARPNESS
Although well-sharpened images look a bit intimidating when
viewed in Photoshop, especially at 1:1, your image will print
well. Great sharpness is required when you're 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 image.
Tip 6: COLOR CHECKER
With each new set up for color reference, one 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 if he or she can provide you with digital
camera raw files. These raw files will provide you with the
greatest latitude and quality in the hands of skilled operators.
The best way to go about this problem is to simply deal with
printing companies whose prepress staffs understand the basics
of color management. People who know and are experts on the
advantages of digital raw camera files, and explain them to you
when asked.
If not, then it's better for you to change now.
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