File Preparation per Graphic Program

Adobe Photoshop

1. Resolution & Color Mode: Set the resolution to 300 DPI and the color mode to CMYK for print projects.
2. Save Options: Save the files in JPEG or TIFF format with maximum quality settings for optimal print clarity. Use Photoshop's Export As feature to ensure compatibility and quality control.

Adobe InDesign (Modern Replacement for QuarkXPress and PageMaker)

1. Exporting Files:
   • From the File menu, choose Export.
   • Select Adobe PDF (Print) as the file format. Alternatively, export as EPS if required.
2. Text Conversion: Before exporting, ensure all text is outlined to avoid font issues:
   • Select all text in the document.
   • Go to Type > Create Outlines. This converts text into vector shapes.
3. Save Settings: When exporting, ensure placed images are embedded, and text is outlined. Include crop marks and set bleed settings as necessary.

Adobe Illustrator

1. Text Preparation:
   • Open the file in Illustrator.
   • Select all text by pressing Ctrl+A (Windows) or Cmd+A (Mac).
   • Go to Type > Create Outlines to convert all text to outlines.
   • Set the outline stroke to zero if applicable to avoid font issues.
2. Save Options:
   • Save the file as AI (Illustrator) or EPS, embedding all placed images.
   • For print, export as a PDF with high-quality print settings or open the EPS in Photoshop if rasterization is required.
3. Photoshop Workflow:
   • Open the EPS file in Photoshop.
   • Set the resolution to 300 DPI and the mode to CMYK.
   • Save as a JPEG or TIFF with maximum quality.

Affinity Designer (Modern Replacement for Freehand)

1. Text Conversion:
   • Select all text objects.
   • Use the Convert to Curves function to outline text and eliminate font dependencies.
2. Export Options:
   • Export the file as EPS or PDF with embedded images. For compatibility, enable flattening where necessary.
3. Photoshop Workflow:
   • Open the exported file in Photoshop.
   • Set the resolution to 300 DPI and the mode to CMYK.
   • Save the file in JPEG or TIFF format with maximum quality.

Microsoft Publisher

1. Font Embedding:
   • Open the document and go to File > Options > Save.
   • Check the box for Embed TrueType Fonts and uncheck Do Not Embed Common System Fonts.
2. Exporting:
   • Save the file as a PDF for print or as an EPS if required.
3. Adobe Workflow:
   • Open the exported file in Illustrator to outline text.
   • Save as an AI or EPS file with placed images embedded.
   • For raster editing, open in Photoshop, set to 300 DPI and CMYK, then save as JPEG or TIFF.

General Notes

• Always embed images in the final export to ensure no links break during the printing process.
• Use modern formats like PDF/X-4 for print-ready files, as it supports transparency and color profiles.
• Ensure all images are in CMYK mode before placing them in any design software for consistent print colors.
• Utilize modern cloud-based collaboration tools like Adobe Creative Cloud or Canva Pro for streamlined team workflows and file sharing.