Electronic Submissions

We can accept files up to 5 Mb via e-mail, or, if you have your own FTP site, we can retrieve files from there. Otherwise, submit files via removable media.

Removable Media

If you would like to send us your job on a disk, visit our home page for our mailing address. We can read almost any type of removable media, such as Zip, Jaz or CD, and most memory card formats such as CompactFlash, SmartMedia, and Microdrive.

File Specifications

Submit bitmap images in TIFF format, vector images as EPS, and layouts in Illustrator or QuarkXPress 4.1, 5 or 6. We can accept documents created in almost any popular Mac graphics or layout program and most PC graphics programs as well. If saved properly, PDF files are also a great way to submit your layouts. We have a great deal of expertise in converting and trouble-shooting files, so there is little we can't handle.

Include your document fonts, convert them to outlines, or embed them in your file, and we also recommend some kind of proof so that we can verify that no problems have occurred in transferring your file to our system. If you decide to send us a PDF file be sure you save the file properly because we will have limited ability to change what you give us. Contact us for questions regarding how to properly create these types of files.

The proper resolution for scanned images is really dependant on the viewing distance for the finished print, and the quality you would like. For viewing distances of less than 5 feet using 600 dpi output, scanned images should be at least 100 dpi at their actual final output size, and we recommend 150 dpi. Some improvement in quality is noticeable at resolutions above 150 dpi, but the trade off in file size is worth considering. Unless your final print will be viewed from 2 feet or closer, the extra resolution is probably not worth the extra file size.

For 720-2880 dpi output, higher resolution scans are required for the best quality output. A minimum of 180 dpi at the final output size is recommended, with 360 dpi providing the best quality. Contact us and we can help you decide the best resolution for your particular project.

Scans should be in RGB color mode for the best results. Of course, we recommend our scans because we can control the color and file size for optimum quality. Plus, we have high-end, professional prepress scanning equipment that provides far superior results to any desktop scanner.

For any job where the final color is critical, we recommend a color proof before we run your final prints. The extra cost could easily pay for itself if problems are found with the color. Contact us if you have questions about this process and we will help you determine the best approach for your job.