What file format do you need?
We work in a variety of formats. Formats we
can use
are .JPEG, .GIF, .PDF, .AI, .EPS, and
.TIFF.
What programs do you use?
We use Adobe Creative Suite 5 for our
graphic needs. We use Dreamweaver
for new
media and Web design.
What platforms do you use?
We use Macintosh and PC.
What storage media can you accept?
We can take DVD, CD, and Flash drives
What resolution do my files need to
be?
Please create and send files for inkjet output
at a
minimum of 100 dpi at
full size (final size to be printed). We can
accept
files with a higher resolution (250-300 dpi)
for
better printing results, but a minimum of
100 dpi
is required. Images from the Internet are
usually
low resolution, so please call us for
directions if
supplying us low-resolution images.
Additional charges
may apply if artwork needs to be rendered
for printing
purposes from low-resolution files. Please
read our
design Resolution
tips
section for more information.
What are vector files?
Vector images are created with
programs such
as Adobe Illustrator and Macromedia Freehand.
They
are based on mathematical algorithms, their
advantage is they're resolution independent. This means
images can be scaled up (enlarged) without a
loss
of quality (no loss of resolution when the
image is
made larger). This type of file is great for
logos,
graphic artwork, and trademarks.
May I send vector images?
Yes, we can accept vector files saved in PDF
or native
Adobe Illustrator.
What are bitmap files?
Bitmap images are pixel based and are best for
continuous
tone images, such as photographic work.
This type
of file is resolution dependent. This means
that
when the image is made larger, the
resolution decreases.
It also means that lower resolution images
(lower
than 100dpi) will not print well. You'll
need to
send a high resolution image so that you
receive
the best results for printing. Scanners and
digital
cameras will produce bitmap images.
What is a color mode?
This refers to the color space that a file
defines.
RGB color mode is used for monitors,
cameras, and
scanners. You can send your files to us in
RGB.
CMYK is a color mode for process printing.
Your
desktop printer uses CMYK, but normally,
your computer
can print to your desktop without
converting the
file to RGB because print drivers make
the conversion. To find out more about
color, visit Color
Modes for more
information.
What color mode do you prefer?
Please submit your files to us in RGB. Why? RGB has a larger color gamut with more information (smaller file sizes than CMYK also). The Eco-SoL inkjet printer we use is actually better at describing CMYK from your RGB file than if the file were converted to CMYK before printing.
Why do my colors look different
between my
monitor and the print version of my files?
Color monitors can describe millions
of colors.
Print items cannot. They can describe only a
fraction
of the colors you see on your monitor.
Monitors
are undependable sources due to the degrading
properties
of both LCD and CRT tubes. One more
consideration is that
color profiles can differ from file to file
and also
differ from monitor to monitor.
Fonts are tricky. To see the artwork you supply to us exactly the same as you do on your own computer, either we need to have the same exact fonts you used from your system (packaged with your files), or the fonts need to be converted to outlines, paths, or curves (depending on the terminology of the application used) before you save us a copy. If you have any questions, please contact us, and we'll be happy to answer any of your questions.