The prepress proof gives an approximation of what the final image will
look like, this is especially important in four-color printing. This is
your last chance to catch prepress errors. Bluelines, color keys, ink-jet
and laminated four-color proofs are examples of prepress proofs. Detailed
below are a few items you will have to check in order to achive the best
possible idea of what your finished piece will lookl like.
Review
the proof counting page numbers. Make sure that pages back up to each
other correctly.
Check
borders and rules for alignment and crossovers.
Examine
headlines and other display type for typos and placement.
Study
areas that have critical register.
Look carefully at each page to be sure no elements have been mistakenly
masked out or trimmed off.
Check every photo to be sure it is positioned, scaled and cropped correctly.
Clearly circle every blemish, flaw, broken letter and anything else that
seems wrong.
Are
all corrections made from previous proofs?
When
proofing multicolor jobs, know what copy prints in each color. Are color
breaks clearly indicated?
When
reviewing process color proofs, are the proofs being reviewed under the
same lighting conditions? (industry standard is 5000 K)
Are
neutral colors in proper balance? Look at whites, grays and black (gray
balance). If they show significant color cast, the color is probably out
of balance.
How
is the overall reproduction of color? Focus on "memory" colors
such as blue skies, green grass and red tomatoes - they are the toughest
to match. How does the rest of the color look?
If
spot varnish or coating is being applied, is it indicated?
Are
the screen percentages correctly indicated?
Are
the margins consistent?
Have
you confirmed: Paper stock? Quantity? Type of binding?
Are
place, date and time, contact name and phone number included in delivery
instructions?
Is
the job trimmed to the correct size and properly folded?
Are
all perfs, scores, glue spots, etc., correctly indicated?
Any
last minute corrections to the copy?
