Artwork color data
Source colors and image information
Prepress & Color Management
Color Control Starts
Before the Press
Files, production conditions and proof references are clarified before artwork reaches the press.
- 01Supplied file
- 02Production reference
- 03Printing handoff
File risk control
Resolve file questions before production begins
Problems found while artwork is still editable are easier to clarify than problems carried into plate preparation, printing or binding.
Supplied artwork
Review the file against the intended book
Prepress checks are interpreted in relation to the agreed format, paper, binding and finishing requirements.
- 01Trim size
- 02Bleed
- 03Page consistency
- 04Images
- 05Fonts
- 06Color-space concerns
Production readiness
Prepare a usable production file
Resolved artwork can move into color preparation and the required output route with page order, cover dimensions and defined finishing areas represented clearly.
Color reference control
Prepare artwork for the intended production condition
Artwork viewed on a display does not by itself describe how ink will appear on the selected paper. Color preparation considers the artwork, material and intended output condition together.
Where appropriate, ICC profile matching supports controlled color translation into that context. The project determines the handling; no single profile is treated as a universal answer.
Intended production condition
Paper and output context considered together
Production color reference
A physical basis for production discussion
Paper affects ink behavior and perceived color, so the reference is understood in relation to the selected stock and production route.
Real production evidence
Follow one project from production files to finished print
Same projectGabby's Dollhouse Ultimate Colouring & Activity BookVerified relationship across files, proof and finished product
Print-ready file set
Production layouts
Three real production layouts form the controlled file set for this book.
Digital proof
Production color reference
The physical proof gives the production team a defined basis for later press comparison.
Digital proofReference for print production
Finished printed result
Cover, interior and sticker section
Finished views complete the verified production relationship without claiming exact mathematical identity between proof and print.
Evidence boundary: a same-project press-sheet image is not currently verified and is not shown.
Printing handoff
Carry the established reference into printing
The production color reference stays connected to the job as it moves into printing. Press output is evaluated against that reference, linking production decisions with the expectations established during preparation and proofing.
Explore Printing CapabilitiesEstablishes the production reference
File preparation, production condition and proof reference are clarified upstream.
Executes and evaluates production
Press output is assessed against the established reference during the selected print route.
The established reference gives the printing team a defined basis for evaluating press output. No same-project press sheet is shown here.
Supporting production resources
Technology supporting prepress control
These resources support specific points in the workflow. The file, reference and handoff process remains the main story.
Digital proof preparation
Epson SureColor P8080
Supports preparation of physical proofs used as production color references.
Supporting digital output
Fuji Xerox Iridesse
Provides digital output support where appropriate to the production route.
Offset plate preparation
Heidelberg Suprasetter CTP System
Carries confirmed production data into plate output for offset printing.
Plan Your Prepress & Color Requirements
Discuss prepress file review, ICC profile matching, digital contract proofing, paper selection, and print requirements with our team before production.