Image Preparation Guideline

The following guidelines are designed to help you set up your file for Digital graphics so that

there will be as few delays and problems as possible in the production of your job.

How Should My File Be Laid Out?

All files should be set up:

• 50% or 100% scale

• Text should be converted to curves or outlines.

• Resolution on files is 150 dpi at final size

What Formats And Programs Can I Use?

Files may be MAC or PC formatted. The files can be set up in any of the following programs:

·         Adobe PhotoShop CS

·         Adobe Illustrator CS

·         Below files must be exported or save as an .EPS:

·         CorelDRAW! 10 PageMaker 7.0

·         InDesign CS

·         Quark

Note: If InDesign files are sent, we must export the files as an .EPS. This does not always export correctly and may incur additional art time to export or for the files to work properly.

How Should I Send My Artwork?

Artwork can be sent on the following types of media

via:

• Direct upload at

www.xtreme-exhibits.com/upload.htm

If choosing this method it’s best to zip all the files (including fonts) for one design together

• E-mail: see E-mail Guidelines in this section

• 3.5” floppy

• CD-ROM

• DVD Rom

What Else Is Important To Consider When Setting Up Files?

PhotoShop files should be saved as a TIFF, EPS or PhotoShop file. If there are “place images” in Illustrator or QuarkXPress, be sure to send the support files so that the quality of the images can be checked.

This is especially important for photographic or highly detailed images. DO NOT send Freehand or Quark EPS files unless you send the content, proportion or color of these eps files. Illustrator EPS files are usable but result in files that are larger than necessary.

What Do I Do About Fonts?

To avoid problems with fonts, include all fonts all the time. PC and MAC fonts are not compatible. Therefore, when working in a MAC format, the Graphics Department requests that you convert all fonts to outlines or curves. If you are MAC based and working in a program that does not allow you to convert the fonts to outlines, the Graphics Department may end up having to substitute fonts. Supplying PC fonts is strongly recommended. Due to slight variations in fonts (kerning, baseline, etc.) substituting fonts may slightly change the layout.

What Else Do I Need To Send?

Please make sure your disk contains both the screen and printer fonts that are used.

What Resolution Should My Images Be Scanned At?

To achieve the best quality for your prints, scan your images so that it is 150 dpi at full size.

Should I Send My Files Layered or Flattened?

Flattened files are preferred.

Single or Multiple Pages?

Q. My layout is for multiple mural panels, should I set my artwork up in separate pages?

A. No, you should not set up any continuous images, ie. Multiple mural panel systems, in separate pages or files.

In an effort to insure the best possible line-up of continuous images, the Graphics Department requests that all art be set up in one file. Precision tiling of your image will take place in our production process. The Graphics  Department requests that you supply your images at the exact width.

Of course, it is always a good idea to include the guides on all layouts to better communicate your expectations. In order to insure accurate line-up of all your mural graphics, a charge may be incurred to rebuild separate files into a single layout.