APAOC
February 2010 Meeting

LARGE FORMAT PRINTING - PANEL DISCUSSION
Moderated by: D Nelson, Sr. Buyer at Disneyland Resorts

Thank you to our Panelists:
Tim Bennett, President of Image Options, OC
Taylor White, VP Sales & Marketing at Performance Printing, Dallas TX
Dan Hirt, Owner of Primary Color, OC and LA
Cathy DeLeon, Account Executive at Vertis Communications, OC
 
Thank you to our meeting Sponsors:
Image Options
MetroMedia Technologies
Performance Companies
Primary Color
Vertis Communications
 
Our panelist had a background producing in the mediums of Large Format Silkscreen and Large Format Digital for OOH, Exhibition and Retail.
 
Topic: Specifications
A picture tells the story. Send a visual as it helps determine the best technique to use.
Engage the vendor early on. Make sure to say the usage. They will know if they are the right fit for the job and can make recommendations. Example- Say it will be spinning on hardware. Spinning printed pieces require a lighter weight material, compared to something that will live on the ground as a decal Waste is a big factor – environmental considerations to minimize waste before and after installation. Vendors should double check specs with the installer or posting company. Each project should be considered custom.

Topic: File Prep/ Useful Tips
A rule of thumb for prepping large format files- 300dpi at quarter size for basic inkjet printing such as a Vutek. Smaller if the file size will be large (such as a building wrap.) Input lo = Output high i.e.: 1000dpi. Always consult your vendor.
Send native files. Pdf files typically are missing white plates and support files. Banding, vignettes, gradations are obvious at proofing stage. Make sure your designer views their working files at actual size (zoom in!) to avoid catching errors at full size that were not apparent on screen. Don't be afraid to ask your vendors for file building advice. (Example: How to build a gradient, so it will come out looking great at full size.)