I’m often asked which type(s) of proof we offer and/or recommended prior to printing – there’s no standard answer as each individual project needs to be viewed on its own merits, but here’s a brief explanation of options available:
PDF proof
This is an emailed visual proof, usually supplied by us if we’re saving PDF from raw artwork or making amendments/corrections. Please note screens show colour differently depending on calibration, so not an accurate colour guide.
High Resolution Imposed proof
An ISO colour standard digital proof (in our case) and therefore a decent colour guide for 4 colour process on coated materials (see below note). We tend to use these proofs for nearly all our 4 colour process work now, although as still a digital proof and not printed on exactly the same weight/finish as final project material it’s not a 100% match.
Advantages are proofs are cost-effective and, as plates not required at this stage, means still possible to make changes after viewing, if necessary (although not ideal).
The downside is not being able to print a proof on actual material to show the exact finish; also does not show specific Pantone reference or special colours (i.e. silver, gold), with true accuracy.
NB: If final printing is on uncoated material digital proofs do not show colour with accuracy, as more ink will be absorbed into material usually resulting in a “flatter”, less vibrant colour.
Wet Proofs
The main advantage is the proof is printed on the final material(s) used for the project.
The downsides are:
- not printed on our large presses but a proofing machine, so colour can still deviate a little as a result,
- takes circa 2 days to complete,
- a much higher cost than imposition proofs, and
- requires plates to run (if subsequent changes are needed, will increase the cost further, so we’d invariably run the high-resolution digital proofs first anyway).
Machine / Press Proofs
The closest colour match as printed on actual material using our large presses – it’s the more expensive proofing option and in reality not often required, but where there’s a critical reason to check final results and/or perhaps if using a bespoke material where print results should be tested/check in advance, we may recommend this route.
On Press
In conjunction with any of the above, possible to sign off on press at the start of the print run if possible/practical – will be happy to show you around at the same time.
Please note we’d still always run at least a high-resolution proof before this press stage, as most colour adjustments that can subsequently be made on the press are minimal; also, same applies re additional cost implications if any subsequent changes are made.
Other factors
Please note matt lamination can affect final print colour slightly – impossible to accurately show on any digital proof, other than via machine proof + laminated sample sheet.
I could go on (even more) to talk about unprinted “dummies” to show the planned materials (and to confirm exact spine size for books etc), CAD cut finishing samples to re-check all “works” fine before incurring the cost of machine dies, but will save for another time.
Our sales & production team are always delighted to offer practical advice – we’ve years of experience, so feel free to tap into it.
Don’t print a thing until you’ve seen the proof
As you’ve seen, we offer a wide variety of different proofing options dependent on your needs and the type of work. The best advice is to contact us so that we can propose a specific proofing solution for your particular print job. Use this form to get in touch or give us a call on 020 8963 0123.
Contact Us
Complete your details and we'll get right back to you.
