color discrepancy when exporting indesign file as pdf

[ptruong2]

hello,

i noticed that when i use the file-->export to pdf option on indesign cs2 the colors are not the same when i print the pdf (from adobe acrobat 7.0) as when i print from indesign cs2.

the pdf printout: all colors are more vibrant but the black, it seems to be a dark grey.

i prefer the exact same look i had chose in indesign cs2...

how do i do this? are there certain options when i am exporting?

thanks.

 

[CylonLove4Life]

Hey,

You're experiencing a few different things here. First off, check the advanced settings when you export the PDF. In CS2, it may convert the document color profile automatically. If you're printing on a consumer printer, you want to send the PDF to the printer in a good RGB profile, such as Adobe RGB.

There is much much more to this, and it is very strong knowledge to have. If you can, read up on ICC profiles and color correction in the digital age. The book "A guide to graphic print production" is a valuable tool, as is a color correcting eye and the proper software. I recommend Monaco's Optix XR eye with X-rite's EZ Color Bundle.

Now, the other thing you're experiencing is what is known as "100% Black" and "Rich Black". If you print something at 100% Black, as in your ink cartridge is only utilizing the black cartridge, it will appear dark grey, for a number of reasons. To get a true black, you want to use a Rich Black, which is created by combining 100% Black with the other color inks. Try something along the line of 70% Magenta, Cyan, and Yellow, and 100% Black.