Last week we spoke about the importance of calibrating your monitor. What happens when your monitor is fully calibrated and your files look gorgeous BUT your prints still come back looking off color? Now we know that the problem is not with our computers but with the lab that printed our work. So we call them up to complain, just to find out that they will not issue a refund. Why not? Well, they say, our machines are all calibrated to perfection. No matter what they say, the print's color is still not right. So how do we correct this problem, or better yet, prevent it from happening in the first place.

          We need to insure that our computers' calibration match the lab's computer's calibration. Yes, I know they are three states away. However, we still have access to their printer's calibration. Visit the lab online and search for their printer profile. If this lab is any good they will offer a little file for you to download that contains their printer's profile (this is the same type of file that the monitor calibration colorimeter software created for your monitor and loads every time your computer boots up). Download this file ...

          Done? Okay, now make sure you know where on your computer that file is saved (downloads folder may be a good place to look). Now open PhotoShop and install the printer profile (you may need to search PhotoShop help on how to do this as so many people are working with some many different versions, but a good place to start is in the print dialogue box).

          Voila, you software will now match the color of the printer in use. Your prints will look just great. Enjoy your color calibrated prints ...