Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
To produce consistent color, you define the color space in which to edit and
display RGB images, and the color space in which to edit, display, and print
CMYK images. This helps ensure a close match between onscreen and printed
colors.
Preparing files for printing
After you've edited an image to get the effect you want, you probably want to
share or publish it in some way. Ideally, you've been editing with the final output
in mind and you've managed file resolution, colors, file size, and other aspects of
the image accordingly. But as you prepare to output the file, you have another op-
portunity to make sure your image will look its best.
Note
One exercise in this lesson requires that your computer be con-
nected to a PostScript color printer. If it isn't, you can do most,
but not all, of the exercises.
If you plan to print the image—whether you'll print it to your own inkjet printer
or send it to a service provider for professional printing—you should perform the
following tasks for the best results. (Many of these tasks are described in greater
detail later in this lesson.)
•
Determine the final destination. Whether you're printing the file yourself
or sending it away, identify whether it will be printed to a PostScript print-
er, an inkjet printer, an offset press, or some other device. If you're work-
ing with a service provider, ask what format they prefer; often, they re-
quest a PDF file.
•
Verify that the image resolution is appropriate. For professional printing,
the resolution should be 300 dpi when the image size matches the inten-
ded output size. For an inkjet printer, you may get the best results with a
300-dpi image, but you might also get good results with a lower resolu-
tion; if you own the printer, you can experiment with settings to find what
works best. Generally, 300 dpi is a safe resolution for most printed output.
•
Do a “zoom test”: Take a close look at the image. Zoom in to check and
correct sharpness, color correction, noise, and other issues that can affect
the final printed image quality.
