File Size and Compression

File Size

We have a maximum file size of 500mb. This is due to the range of presses we have in production. Really large files with either not go through workflow or rip to the press.

We can push through files through that are larger than this but we have to try and compress it first, and raise a ticket with production to let them know.

Compression

In Studio, we have a number of different ways that we can try and compress a file.

We can JPEG the file (to flatten this and make it easier to work with) We have a compression tool on our desktops which we can use and we have actions we can try in both Pitstop and InDesign.

If a file is sent to us over 200mb, we will let try and compress the file first and then let the client know. Sometimes, on rare occasions, it can impact the quality of the file so we have to advise them we have had to do this.

If a client is struggling to compress a file, we can send them the following screenshot

This highlights the recommend settings to use when exporting out of InDesign and will aid in compressing the file.

On the rare occasion we have tried everything we can do on our end, we will go back to the client and advise the file they have sent is unworkable and advise on how they can compress on their end.

FAQ

200mb is quite low for a printer, I have other companies that can accept larger files

Due to the range of presses we have and the number of files going through our workflow at any given time, we have capped the file size at roughly 200mb per file. This helps set a benchmark for a rough guide but also helps in production giving them the opportunity to re route jobs if required.

I can’t compress my file any further, this is currently over 200mb, what can you do to help?

Firstly, are all images in the file set to 300dpi? Anything over this can increase the file size. However, we can try a number of things on our side to help decrease the file size. The main thing for clients to check is that all elements are inside the safety and the file has the correct amount of bleed. If not, we will have to apply a number of fixes to the file, which in turn, increases the size.

We’ve fixed a file but this has exported the pdf version of the proof at 300mb. What can we do?

If this is the absolute smallest we can make the file, and we have tried all the tools in our arsenal, we can attempt to push this through. However, we need to make systems know and raise a ticket with production. We also need to manage the clients expectations and advise that if production come to us and advise the file can’t rip to the press, unless they can re supply a smaller file, we won’t be able to produce the job.

I’ve used a different software to create the artwork, how can this be compressed?

There is a compression guide attached which can be run through with clients. This is an internal file so screenshots can be shared with clients but not the file.