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Guidelines for Supplying Checking files before takeoff Checklist specifics vary from job to job, but some common items include fonts, page layout, color and placed graphics. Fonts Always send your fonts with your job regardless if we have used them before. Also, if using a Windows based computer, please keep in mind that our Macintosh computers cannot “read” Windows fonts. However, some fonts are the same no matter where they come from. Some of these include Times, Helvetica and Arial. If Windows fonts are critical, please check with us to see if we have a Macintosh version of that font. Sometimes we do. If you have the option to convert your fonts to paths, curves or outlines (text that can no longer be edited) we ask that you do so. This will negate any problems we may have in relation to Windows-based fonts. Color
Don’t forget to designate custom colors (especially when you’re using CMYK color model to define them.) Print separations to a laser to check for color breaks to ensure there are no extra colors. When assigning a color to art or text, please use a Pantone® color. This will work for both spot and process colors and helps us to make sure the color we print matches the color you want. When printing four-color jobs, check that imported images are set to CMYK. DO NOT place RGB images into the layout as they will print as Black and White halftones. Placed Graphics
Check that included graphics have not been sized or rotated in the the page-layout applications; make such changes in the originating application whenever possible. In Quark Express, TIFF’s should have a white fill (instead of none). This avoids jagged boundary edges when the software rasterized to ascertain where the edge of the image is. Please do not send graphics or files not used in the current job. Graphic Formats Graphic data is stored in a variety of formats. The two formats we prefer are TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) and EPS (Encapsulated Post Script). TIFF images are the most flexible and reliable method of storing bit-mapped images in various resolutions, gray levels and colors. TIFF was created specifically for storing gray-scaled data and is a standard format for scanned photographs, both black and white or color. EPS images are popular for storing vector object-oriented artwork (line art) and can also store bitmaps. Proofs
It’s always a good idea to send a proof along with your files. Color proofs are helpful if you are printing a piece that has more than one color. Lasers are acceptable if you don’t have access to a color printer. In that case, please send a composite laser proof and separated laser prints so we can tell where the color is placed on your file. Preferred Programs We accept files in Quark Express, Adobe Pagemaker, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. We have the most current versions for the Macintosh of all of these programs. We can accept the Windows versions of all the above programs as long as they are the most current versions. Macintosh computers can convert Windows to Mac as long as the versions of the programs are the same. If you aren’t sure if your program will work, please call us. File Information
Be sure to include ALL graphics and fonts used in creating your files. We’ve said this before, but it’s very important. If we don’t have all your files, we won’t be able to output your job in a timely manner. Please only send the files you are using for this current job so that there is no confusion when we receive your artwork. Always keep a copy of your files. We accept 100 MB zip disks, CDs, and 3.5” floppy disks. We can also accept e-mailed files if prior arrangements are made. E-mailed files usually need to be compressed. We have the Macintosh versions of Stuff-It and WinZip. We try to return your disks with your job. If you do not receive your disk, please let us know within 15 days of receiving your job. We are not responsible for disks not returned after 15 days. Important
Following these guidelines does not guarantee that we will be able to output your files. Please be sure to include your name and a phone number where you can be reached in case of a problem. We will make every attempt to output your files but keep in mind that Windows to Macintosh conversions do not always work and we may be forced to make other arrangements to make the film for your job. |
