File format for large poster print (text, image and simple graphic elements)

[funlovephotography]

I'm printing posters at 3'x4' in size (36"x48").

I created them in Photoshop.

I created them in RGB but lab wants CMYK. When I convert it will flatten (in case that's relevant info?).

My question is: what file format am I best to export as to submit for print? Are there any issues around text I need to worry about?

TIA.

[Damien Symonds]

Oh, there are a thousand issues to worry about here.  I'm SO glad you posted.

First, can you show me exactly what instructions the lab gave you?  About CMYK, about resolution, about file format, about bleed ... everything.

[funlovephotography]

Gosh, actually, no. I've prepped these posters for a charity event and they are waffling on what printer to use at the very last minute ($ issues - but we need these foamcore mounted and in hand by next Friday) and they asked me not to contact them until finalized. All I know is CMYK. Attached is screenshot of a poster. I didn't create any elements full bleed. I designed to 300dpi - and the images are already being scaled up.

[Damien Symonds]

Please read: https://www.damiensymonds.net/2011/05/please-be-wary-of-cmyk.html

Also this: https://www.damiensymonds.net/cmyk-rgb-files-press.html

Regarding file format, it will be PDF.  You must read this also: https://www.damiensymonds.net/2010/05/making-pdfs-from-photoshop.html

[funlovephotography]

Thank you! Lifesaver. Will dive in now.

 

[Damien Symonds]

My cousin's daughter has Alopecia <3  She's so amazing.

[funlovephotography]

Some people in this world are just incredible aren't they.

 

[Damien Symonds]

4 minutes ago, funlovephotography said:

All I know is CMYK.

I cannot stress strongly enough the danger that lurks here.  You need to find out exactly which CMYK they need.  It will be the difference between lovely posters, and shit you wouldn't line a wardrobe with.

[funlovephotography]

Ok - thanks. I will be sure to find out and get detailed instructions from the lab.

 

[Damien Symonds]

Wonderful.  Let me know what you hear.

[Damien Symonds]

Whatever happened with this, @funlovephotography?

[funlovephotography]

Oh yes, thanks so much for your help! I got the specific profile from the printer and the posters turned out amazingly! THANK YOU!

[Damien Symonds]

Yay!