If you’re a graphic designer, chances are good that you’ve had to print to CMYK at some point. Whether you’re printing a design for a client or for yourself, understanding how to set up your file correctly is essential to getting good results. Here’s a quick guide on how to print to CMYK in Photoshop.
When you’re working in Photoshop, you’re working in RGB mode by default. This is great for screen display, but when it comes time to print your design, CMYK is the way to go. You can convert your image from RGB to CMYK mode by going to Image > Mode > CMYK Color.
Keep in mind that some colors will shift when you convert from RGB to CMYK – this is due to the limitations of the CMYK color gamut. When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with your printer ahead of time so they can advise you on which colors may shift and how much of a shift to expect.
Once you’ve converted your image to CMYK mode, you’ll need to make sure your file is properly set up for printing. The first step is to check your resolution – for most printing purposes, 300 dpi is ideal. You can check your resolution by going to Image > Image Size and looking at the Resolution field.
Next, take a look at your file dimensions. If your design is going to be printed on a standard sheet of paper (8.5″ x 11″), then make sure your image dimensions are large enough so that it will print at 100% size. If your design is going on a larger piece (e.g., a poster), then you’ll have more leeway with your image dimensions – just make sure it’s still high-resolution so it will print clearly.
Finally, pay attention to your color settings. When you’re printing in CMYK mode, it’s important to use the correct color profile for your printer.
This ensures that the colors in your design will print accurately on the final piece. You can usually find out which color profile to use from your printer – if not, ask them ahead of time so you can be sure to use the right one.
With these quick tips in mind, you should be all set to print your design in CMYK mode! Just remember to convert your image ahead of time, check your resolution and file dimensions, and use the correct color profile for best results.