Color Correction & File Management
Q: What is the minimum resolution my images must be in order to print?
A: We recommend that all images have a resolution of at least 300 dots per inch. For example, a 4x6 print should be at least 1200 x 1800 pixels, as 4 inches * 300 pixels/inch = 1200 pixels, and 6 inches * 300 dots/inch = 1800 pixels. Prints larger than 11x14 can be submitted at 250 dpi to expedite file transfer.
Q: What file types and profile should my picture be?
A: All files must be in JPEG format and must be in sRGB Color Space.
Q: Do you have an ICC profile for soft proofing?
A: Yes. You can download profiles for both Lustre and Metallic papers here. Instructions on where to put the profiles and how to soft proof in Photoshop are included in the download.
Q: I just received my test prints and they do not look like my monitor, what's wrong?
A: First verify that your files were submitted in the correct color space (sRGB). Often images that are submitted in the wrong color space, Adobe RGB for example, will appear muddy or dull. Next, check the calibration settings on your monitor. We recommend making use of a calibration device for optimal calibration, such as the X-Rite ColorMunki.
Never assume that if you are calibrated to one lab that your prints will look the same when printing through a different lab. Changing labs requires change in calibration. Finally, before contacting Color Inc., look through your entire order and determine whether all of your files are off on color, or if it's just one or a few. Also, examine the sizes of prints that were off in color. If the same file was printed in two different sizes, and one is correct and the other is not, there could have been an error on your order. If the problem does not seem to be with your images or with your calibration, contact the lab. Our support staff will help you determine what may be causing the color issues with your prints.
Q: Are there restrictions on what you can name files that will be submitted through ROES?
A: Yes! When ordering through ROES, avoid any special characters in your file names, as these can cause errors in orders. When placing orders, please be sure your file names do not include the words "order" or "border". Do not use any characters other than letters, numbers, underscores and hyphens. For example, any of the following characters would need to be removed from file names: (!@#$%^&*.;:'"[]{}\|<>?,).
Q: How much room should I leave for text on an image?
A:Images should have a 1/4" bleed, meaning that you should keep all essential aspects of the image at least 1/4" from the edge of the print. We cannot guarantee that text or image will not be lost outside that border.
Q: How can I keep the die cut from cutting too much into my image?
A: Add 1/8" to your crop (ROES will draw an approximate border where the die cut will be. This is visible when ordering wallets).
Q: How many characters can be printed on the backprint of photos?
A: Studio names may have up to 36 characters in their backprint. Image names will print up to 25 characters for non-rendered images such as Express Prints & Proofs. Images that are rendered, such as Proof Magazines or Greeting Cards are always backprinted with their item number from ROES.