Soft proofs
and contract proofs.

Why a proof is needed

The proof is the point at which client and printer agree on exactly what will be printed. Once it is approved, the job goes into production. There are two kinds of proof, each with its own purpose: the soft proof, which confirms content, and the contract proof, which fixes colour.

Soft proof

A soft proof is a PDF showing the job as it has been prepared for press. It is used to check:

• Text. Spelling, prices, codes, contact details, version number.
• Layout. Position of text and images, page order, margins.
• Finished format. Dimensions, bleed, position of folds and die line.
• Completeness. That no image, font or element of the artwork is missing.

A soft proof is not a colour reference. A screen emits light whereas print reflects it, and every screen renders the same file differently. The same is true of office printouts: they show the layout, not the colour of the production run.

Contract proof

A contract proof is a hard-copy proof produced on a calibrated system that simulates the specific printing condition, in accordance with ISO 12647-7. It carries a Fogra control strip, which is measured to verify that the proof falls within the specified tolerances. This is what makes it a binding colour reference for both client and printer.

When a contract proof is needed

• Brand colours. When the shade of a logo allows no deviation.
• Packaging. Where the printed item sits alongside earlier runs or other items in the same range.
• Product images. Food, textiles, cosmetics and anything else that must look true to life.
• Reprints. When a new run has to match the previous one.
• Multiple approvers. When colour is signed off by several people or departments and a common reference is required.

What it does not show

A contract proof is printed on proofing paper. It reproduces colour, but not the texture of the final stock, nor coating or lamination. Metallic and fluorescent spot colours can only be approximated. See also: CMYK or Pantone and choosing paper.

Approval

A proof should be checked in full, not only where changes were made. Approval is given in writing and applies to that specific version of the file. Any change after approval means a new file and a new proof.

Our approach

At Terzidis Print production always begins with approval of a soft proof. A Fogra-based contract proof can be produced for any job where a binding colour reference is required. Guidance on preparing your file is given in our file specifications.