Once approved, a PDF soft proof serves as a basic contract just as a traditional proof does, so it is important to review the soft proof as carefully as you would a traditional proof. Here are some hints for best reviewing practices:
- Use the zoom option in Acrobat Reader to see the whole page on your screen or to zoom in to see details. The magnifying glass icon is the zoom indicator.
- Reviewing a reflective proof is sometimes easier than viewing on screen so it is a good idea to print the PDF using the highest quality printer you have. The bigger the output the better – 11 x 17 is better than 8 ½ x 11. Also, color is better than black and white. Remember this, however: don’t expect the color from your printer to be exact because your printer will not be calibrated to the file. Another important detail is that you will most likely be printing out a reduced version of the file (because the file will be press sheet sized and chances are your printer can’t print that large).
- The reader does not give a “ruler” which indicates sizes or dimensions on screen. Furthermore when you print a PDF file, the proof will be reduced to fit your printer’s output size. It is important, that if you have any questions about the exact dimension of your product, you contact your Customer Service Representative (CSR). Because our pressroom and finishing department need to have a hard proof to reference when working on your job, we produce a hard proof for internal use for every soft proof we create. Therefore, your CSR can help answer any questions regarding dimensions by referring to these internal proofs.
- Don’t leave anything to chance—if you have any concerns about a PDF Soft Proof while reviewing it, don’t be hesitant! We got your back!