How to Correctly Prepare a File

NOVEMBER 11, 2016| SpeedPro East Bay

SpeedPro East Bay has hit our one-year milestone of being in business and we couldn’t be more excited.  Over this past year, we’ve all learned a lot together about the printing industry.  From the different obstacles and errors that can come with large format printing, to overall collaboration and becoming a kick-ass team!  One common thing that we’ve noticed though is the way that files are submitted.  So, we want to help you make things easier if you ever work with us.

Do you see the problem with the image below?  The image on the left is a high-resolution clear image but the image on the left is very low resolution and when enlarged to print, it comes out looking like a bunch of mini colored squares.  For the best result, the images should be at least 150-300dpi.  Sadly, we’re not magicians so we can’t take a super small picture and blow it up without it looking like whatever that is on the right.

If you’re designing the file then the best program to use for large-format printing purposes would be Adobe Illustrator.  InDesign works, but it’s not ideal for large-format.  Now, an important thing to remember before saving and sending the file is to outline the text.  If the text is not outlined, then at least provide the font.  This way if we need to adjust the file, then we’re able to size it properly and can find the font to recreate the graphic.

Once you’re done with the design, saving it as either an eps or pdf file is best.  PDF is recommended for image and vector based designs this way image compressions can be managed more efficiently.  You can then either e-mail the pdf to one of our team members or submit it through the website.

If all fails we do provide graphic design services in-house for an hourly fee.  Give us a call for more information on how we can help make your image come to life.