For this step, you will perform a simple calibration check to be sure your monitor is displaying color as close to accurate as possible. Some procedures described here require Photoshop 6 or higher.
Although we strongly recommend you calibrate your monitor with a professional hardware calibration device such as Gretag Macbeth's Eye-one, the images below will offer a good indication of correct contrast and brightness settings. |
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 (2a) |
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In image (2a), you should be able to see each small square within each large square. Adjust your contrast to the maximum setting, then set your brightness and, if possible, system gamma until you see all small squares inside the large squares.
After your monitor has been corrected, make sure your working space is set properly by opening the 'Convert to Profile' dialog as illustrated in example (2b) below. |
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 (2b) |
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 (2c) |
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As highlighted in example (2c), if your source space is not 'Adobe RGB (1998)' change the destination space to 'Adobe RGB (1998)' and click OK. This ensures that any adjustments you make will take full advantage of the large gamut offered by this profile.
Now you will set up a custom proof configuration to view your image as it will look when printed. (Please note: this step works only with Photoshop 6 or higher) Download and install the profile for your particular type of print. Select 'View › Proof Setup › Custom' as illustrated below. |
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 (2d) |
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As in example (2e), set the profile to the custom profile you downloaded. If the profile is not listed, make sure you have installed it and restart Photoshop. Choose 'Relative Colorimetric' for the intent and make sure 'Use Black Point Compensation' is checked. Click OK.
This will give you a representation of what your print will resemble. Depending upon your image, you may or may not notice a significant change in the colors. Many of the medias we use have a wide color gamut and you will not notice a change. But certain colors do not reproduce well on some media types; therefore it is necessary to soft proof your image and make any adjustments before sending it. |
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 (2e) |
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On to step 3: Make adjustments
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