Hey guys,
Quick question, does it really make any difference if I export PDF or high quality JPG or TIFF from photoshop for print? The whole image is still going to be pixel based so the whole advantage of PDF is lost right? I need to get something sent off to print and its just that the PDF comes up to a really high file size.
Photoshop is pixel based, not vectors, so it won’t make much difference. As long as you save the file with high enough resolution and dont use compresssion (highest quality settings with jpeg for example).
http://www.animationpost.co.uk/tech-notes/bitmaps-vs-vectors.htm
Always save as a TIFF if you can. Depending on how you’re getting it printed it’s also a good idea to convert to CMYK yourself so you can get an idea of any drop off or banding there might be so you have a chance to fix it.
I second the use of TIFF.
But better yet, why don’t you ask your printer which file type he does prefer? He could also give you some pointer on how to optimise your file for the best result on his equipment. He is after all, the one who know how is printing process work.
You can use Photoshops Print View to see what the file looks like in CMYK. Photographers use it to see how much colour saturation gets lost in CMYK so they can compensate a little bit and have an acceptable result on paper from the print shop.
If you are going to end up sending the file as a PDF, here are a few tips to reduce the file size:
First save a copy of the file and name it ***-export.psd (this is just in case you accidentially save the modified file)
now ensure you are using the ***-expor.psd file. (i can’t say this enuf times)
Now (if you are needing to have transparency) go to layers > merge visible (remove any hidden layers at this time too)
otherwise go to layers > flatten image
do your “save as” PDF export and turn off the editability function.
and choose the highest version of Acrobat your print person is able to accept, hopefully matching what he/she has.
You should end up with a much smaller file size.
on a side note, JPG doesn’t always retain the proper specs you save it in… So if TIFF can be used, go that route… but I persoanally like PDF.