Pre-press Common Questions
Q: What platforms and applications do you support?
A: Our prepress department can use files from both Mac OS and Windows platforms. We support all standard applications, including QuarkXPress, Adobe InDesign, Adobe PageMaker, Illustrator, Freehand, InDesign, and FrameMaker. Avoid using Microsoft Publisher, PowerPoint, Word, and Corel Draw, as they can be problematic in the imagesetting environment. If you are using Microsoft Word, first create a PDF file using Adobe Acrobat with all fonts embedded. Then send the PDF file to us. Sometimes when we open MS Word files, we encounter reflow and other anomalies – effectively changing your layout.

Q: Do I have to use QuarkXpress?
A: No. We support a wide variety of applications. However, printers tend to favor QuarkXPress because it was designed with the end stage of image production in mind and handles issues like trapping and separation better than most other applications. If you use QuarkXPress, you can be assured a smooth ride through the prepress and proofing process, which means faster on to press and back to you.

Q: Can I submit my job to you as a PDF file?
A: PDF files created in Adobe Acrobat are fine. When you create the PDF, be sure to turn off compression, embed all images in a high-resolution format, ensure that all images are CMYK or grayscale (not RGB), and embed all fonts.

Q: Will I see Matchprint proofs of my job?
A: For most projects, all you will need is our high-definition Agfa digital color proof, which is almost as color-accurate as a Matchprint. And because it is digital, we can get it to you faster. Request Matchprints only when your job entails highly color-critical images, such as food or skintones.

Q: Do I need to supply the fonts I’m using?
A: While our font library is extensive, it is always wise to provide us with both the screen and printer fonts that you have used in your layout.

Q: If I have photographic images in my file, how should I set them up?
A: Be sure that all Adobe Photoshop files are saved as CMYK or grayscale (not RGB). Standard resolution for photo files is 300 to 350 dpi (used at the same size in the layout) for continuous tone images. 1200 to 2400 dpi is good for bitmap line art. Never enlarge images more than 150 percent or reduce them smaller than 50 percent in your layout. It is better to resample them in Photoshop or another image editing program.