PCPhoto

Trade Tricks: Easy Color Management

For the best prints, take control over your color

By Maura C. Lanahan

Page 2 of 2

Printer Driver. Set your printer driver correctly. You can access it by clicking on Properties in the Print window of your image-processing program. Choose the proper photo quality and the correct paper.

Paper Quality. Tell your printer what type of paper you’re using. Paper whites and textures vary, so your printer needs this information in order for it to properly apply ink.

Adobe Photoshop And Photoshop Elements. There are two levels of printing. You have to decide which fits your workflow and printer best.

Level I: This level is simpler and works well, especially if you work in the sRGB color space.
1. In the File menu, choose Print with Preview. A box with your image appears with a few options from which to choose.
2. Click on Show More Options, then Color Management.
3. Next, in the Source Space, choose Document.
4. In the Print Space for the Profile menu, choose Same As Source.

Level II: This level is a little more involved and is especially appropriate for the larger Adobe RGB (1998) color space.
1. In the File menu, choose Print with Preview.
2. Click on Show More Options, then Color Management.
3. Next, in the Source Space, choose Document.
4. In the Print Space, choose the appropriate profile for the paper and printer you’re using.
5. For Intent, you either can choose Perceptual or Relative Colorimetric; most photographers find that Relative Colorimetric works well, but try experimenting with both.
6. Check the Use Black Point Compensation box.

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