How to submit your files for printing at Color3arte® (Giclée Giclee)

On this page, we explain, step by step, how to prepare and send us your files to achieve the best results in Fine Art Giclée printing. We are based in Oviedo (Asturias) and ship throughout Spain as well as internationally (including projects for the United States and other countries).

1) Before exporting (essential steps)

To avoid common issues (color shifts, lack of sharpness, incompatible files), we recommend:

• Work in RGB (preferably Adobe RGB (1998) or ProPhoto RGB).

• Keep the artwork at its final print size and, if possible, at 300 dpi (ppi).

• If your image is black and white, convert it to Gray Gamma 2.2 before exporting the final file.

• Avoid applying paper/ink ICC profiles to the final file (if you’re soft proofing, use it only for previewing).

• Examine the image at 100% magnification to check for dust, halos, artifacts, or unwanted elements.

2) Recommended export (final file for printing)

This is the best format for fine art printing:

• Format: TIFF

• Layers: Flattened (no layers)

• Bit depth: preferably 16 bits per channel (if your workflow allows)

• Resolution: 300 dpi (ppi) at the final size (if your artwork has a different resolution, that’s fine: what matters is the final size and the actual quality of the file)

• Embedded profile: required

  • Color: Adobe RGB (1998) or ProPhoto RGB

  • B/W: Gray Gamma 2.2

• TIFF compression: uncompressed or LZW/ZIP (lossless)

Quick settings based on software (optional)

• Photoshop: File > Save As > TIFF (embedded profile, flattened).

• Lightroom: Export > TIFF Format > Adobe RGB or ProPhoto color space (depending on your workflow) > 16-bit if applicable.

• Procreate: Export > TIFF (if available) or PSD, then convert to a flattened TIFF in Photoshop (with embedded profile).

• Illustrator/InDesign: Export and submit TIFF or PDF files only if they are properly configured; if you have any questions, please contact us first.

3) Name and organize your files (very important)

A good filename helps prevent errors and speeds up production. Recommendation:

Last Name_First Name_Title_Size_Paper_Quantity_V01.tif

Example:
Garcia_Ana_SerieNorte_50x70_PhotoRag_2u_V01.tif

If there are multiple projects, please submit one folder per order/project.

4) Final checklist before sending

Before uploading the files, check:

• The image is at its final size and looks fine at 100% zoom.

• There are no accidental edges, marks, scan dust, or unwanted elements.

• The file is in TIFF format, flattened, with the profile embedded.

• If it's black and white, it's in Gray Gamma 2.2.

• Have you noted down (even if just on a separate piece of paper ) the paper you chose and the final size?

5) File upload

• Upload your photos

Special considerations

Black-and-white images

• Work and export in Gray Gamma 2.2.

• Pay special attention to midtones and contrast, as the paper and the type of image affect the final result.

Scanning of traditional artworks (paintings, drawings, works on paper)

• Scan at a minimum of 300 dpi at the final size (or higher if there is fine texture).

• Check for dirt and dust, and clean it up before shipping.

• If you have any questions about color balance or consistency, please contact us (we can help you correct the file).

Need help before you send it?

If you have questions about size, resolution, exporting, or profiles, please contact us and we’ll guide you through the process to avoid mistakes and ensure the best possible print results.