The Basics

» Preferred File Formats
Photographic images can be saved in a variety of file formats. The format of choice is one that does not lose color quality, contrast or file size. TIF or EPS files are examples of lossless file formats. They are designed to print clear and crisp at a resolution of 300dpi at their final size in the layout. 

JPEG/JPG or GIF files are examples of lossy file formats. They were originally designed for easy file transmission and internet use, not for printing.  Although not preferred, JPEG/JPG files are accepted and will reproduce fairly well when saved at high resolution quality.

When a lossy file format is saved over and over again, the jagged edges are exaggerated. The process creates extra pixel garbage that you do not want printed. Therefore, if you start with a JPEG file that then needs edits, save it as an EPS or TIF file. This way, additional information will not get lost and the quality of the original JPEG image will be maintained.

» Images from your Digital Camera
Before taking a picture, determine the quality of an image and how it can be used in a layout. Use the highest quality setting available on the camera. The pixel dimensions of an image identify the resolution. Dividing the pixel width and height by 300 determines the dpi. Divide by 400 for images with text.

For example:

Digital Camera Image (with no text) = 1200 pixels x 1600 pixels
1200/300 = 4 inches 1600/300 = 5.33 inches
Layout size for image = 4 inches x 5.33 inches

The image can print at this size or smaller for clear and crisp printing.  This example image would be acceptable for full bleed trading cards (print size 3.5" x 2.5") or post cards (print size 3.5" x 5").

Digital cameras use the RGB color space. When RGB is converted to CMYK, images tend to darken. Brighten and sharpen your image for clearer printing. Convert the image to the CMYK color space, if possible. Professionals frequently use Adobe Photoshop for this task.

How the original image is acquired will determine its resolution.

» Images from the Internet

Avoid images from the internet.  Jpeg and Gif files are Internet images, saved with a compression process designed to remove color and visual quality to achieve small file sizes. Internet images are usually saved at a resolution of 72 dpi for quick screen loads and will not print clear and crisp on a printing press. 

REMEMBER:
How the original image is acquired will determine its resolution and clarity of the printed image.

» Photo Tips

·         Some selected design styles will require two or more photos of each player, coach mascot, etc. You may, however for any style submit an action photo for the front and head shot for the back at no additional charge. If headshots are unavailable, CHOICE will “Snap Shot” a head photo from the front photo. 

·         Please do NOT send Polaroids

·         No matte finish photos 

·         Do not Cut or Crop photos 

·         Do not staple or paper clip photos 

·         Do not write directly on the photos  

·         Please try to take photos in a consistent format. Either all vertical or all horizontal. 

·         When submitting digital photographs, please burn to a CD or save to a ZIP disk. Please do not try to email an entire set of photographs. 

·         Be sure to include the photographers name to receive a photo credit.  

·         Try to photograph headshots against a contrasting, non-textured wall or background if possible (i.e. if your player is wearing a white uniform…pose him/her against a blue background, etc.)

·         If we are clipping your player's out of there picture background-we recommend that they have “head gear” on such as caps, helmets, etc. (makes for a cleaner clip around player’s head/hair area)

·         Please stage action shots when possible to get “the right shot” (try to avoid the “sideline zoom”)

·         Please watch the sun and shadow areas especially under a cap brim (shoot your pictures with lighting in mind) 

·         When taking your pictures, focus is extremely important. Maintain a steady hand and proper focal point. If the photos are “fuzzy” the card will also be “fuzzy”.