Expert: Nick Putthoff - 2/8/2008

Question
Hi Nick, a couple of questions about printing.
A print shop will want 1/4 in bleed on all sides for 24x36 inch poster. Does it mean I have to create an Illustrator file  where artboard setup is 24.5x36.5 inch?

And one more question: I have photos in TIF format, RGB mode. what's the proper way of using them in Illustrator, should I save them in CMYK mode first (using Photoshop)? And then, how should I put them into Illustrator properly, so they print correctly?
I noticed there's a Place command in File menu, with options to link (checkmark) the file. Or should I open TIF files in AI and drag them into my artboard?

Thank you in advance,
Ed

Answer
Ed,

Typically you would make the artboard the same as the trim size in the final piece. That way the border that designates the artboard will be visible while you are laying out the artwork giving you a reference for the edge of the printed piece. If you prepare your file in this manner try going to the Object pull down menu with nothing selected and scroll down to Crop Area and Make Crop Marks. Do not worry that the crip marks appear in the bleed area. When the printer outputs the file to film or digital plate they will set the offset for the cropmarks to accommodate their bleed specifications.
For the RGB photos I would contact the printer and ask for their preferences for the CMYK conversion. They may use a RIP that will convert the RGB to CMYK on the fly. Letting the printer do the conversion means that they will use settings the will achieve their optimum maximum ink density for their press conditions. Unless you are familiar with what will take place when the RGB TO CMYK conversion this is best left to the separator or printer.
If you want to look into it yourself and see what the presets offer check the Color Settings in Photoshop.
I always prefer images linked to an AI file - but remember to include any external files that are linked to the AI file when transmitting the final art file to the printer. Also request a proof. It may seem like an expensive choice but remember if the artwork does not print as desired it will probably come from your pocket to reprint or in the worst case you will have to live with a printed piece that does not meet your expectations.

Good Luck
NIck