Large Format File Setup Guidelines

File formats

PDF (highest quality preferred), Adobe InDesign, Photoshop (psd, tif, jpg) or Illustrator (ai, eps), Powerpoint

Powerpoint is not actually intended for large-format printing - its primary use is for screen presentations or for 35mm slide output. We recommend exporting your Powerpoint file as a high quality PDF. Expect small inconsistencies when enlarging from PowerPoint. Problems can include text shifting or wrapping to the next line. This is normal and unavoidable. Please keep this in mind when printing large-format from PowerPoint. Also, when designing in PowerPoint, never "copy and paste" image graphics into your file; always "insert as picture."

It is recommended that a hardcopy color proof is supplied to Repro Graphics for accurate color and layout matching.

Image Resolution

We recommend designing your large format document at actual size with  a resolution of 100 dpi. If necessary, you can design your document at a smaller size as long as it remains to scale and the resolution (dpi) is proportionately larger.

For example, a 24”x36” poster could be designed at a reduced scale of:

24”x36” (100% size) – with a minimum resolution of 100 dpi.
12"x18" (1/2 final size) – with a minimum resolution of 200 dpi.
8"x12" (1/3 final size) – with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi.
6"x9" (1/4 final size) – with a minimum resolution of 400 dpi.

Fonts

Whenever possible, convert fonts to outlines or supply all Post Script printer and screen fonts.

Proofs

PDF electronic proofs will be provided upon request.
Hard copy proofs are available at an extra charge

Don'ts

  • Whenever possible, do not embed images. Use “insert as picture” or “place” commands in your application.
  • Avoid using low resolution images, especially ones taken from the internet. Repro Graphics cannot guarantee quality output when low resolution images are used.

Extra Charges

  1. Client requested color and layout changes are available.
  2. Jobs with incomplete or inaccurate elements may require extra work. Customer will be notified and given a quote.

 

Need help?

Andrew Larsen
Art Director
754-1027
aslarsen@ucdavis.edu