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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.