We conclude our series with a few more tips for fabulous file formatting.
Fonts used to be much more problematic, but they can still create havoc if not tamed properly. If you send us a .pdf, we should be good to go–especially if you outline all of the fonts first (if you don’t know how to outline your fonts and you’re having an issue, give our designer a call). If you ask us to change the type in the .pdf file, we may need the original fonts, as we would if we needed to work with a file that has not been distilled into a .pdf yet. InDesign and Quark both have functions that will collect and package up everything you need for your file to travel; call if you can’t find it.
Layers have become prevalent with the advent of transparency functions in layout programs such as InDesign and Quark. If you flatten your layers before sending us your file, you may avoid some surprises that occur at output, like invisible boxes that block out type or boxes that show up where they are not supposed to be seen.
If your file size is too big or too small, refer to my tip number 3 below about vector and raster art, and resolution. You can’t just pull an image off of the internet and expect it to print with any quality because it will only be 72 dpi and you need 300 dpi for a good print image. You may need to re-scan, or in the case of huge files, reduce your images before linking them back into your layout program.
We hope these tips have been helpful. As always, call if questions–we’re here to help.