File prep
Prepare the file first
Embedded RGB profiles, brightness, crop, and resolution all affect whether color prints as expected.
Color guide
Color Correction Explained
Understand what printers do, what standard printing leaves unchanged, and when color correction or proofing is worth requesting.
What “color correction” means in professional printing
Color correction refers to intentional adjustments to tone, brightness, contrast, saturation, or color balance to reach a specific visual result.
Those adjustments require context. A printer cannot know whether an image should be warmer, brighter, softer, moodier, more neutral, or closer to an original without a reference or clear direction.
What The Stackhouse does by default
By default, we print files as uploaded. This means:
- Embedded color profiles are respected.
- Files are printed using a color-managed workflow.
- No subjective brightness, contrast, saturation, or color-balance changes are made.
- No creative interpretation is applied.
If a file is technically print-ready, it will be printed consistently according to the information in the file. For technical standards, see the Submit Artwork & File Prep Guide.
Why color correction is not automatic
Automatic correction may sound helpful, but it can create unwanted changes. There is no single “correct” edit for every image, and creative intent cannot be inferred from the file alone.
Because of that, correction is only applied when it is requested, included in a defined workflow, or reviewed as part of a proofing process.
When color correction is appropriate
- Artwork scanning: physical originals need careful digital translation.
- Proof-based workflows: adjustments can be reviewed and approved before final production.
- Custom projects: correction is part of the agreed scope.
- Explicit requests: expectations are clearly defined before printing.
Color correction vs file accuracy
File accuracy means the file is technically prepared for print: good resolution, RGB color mode, embedded profile, and reviewed crop.
Color correction changes the image’s appearance. It affects interpretation, mood, and visual intent.
Common misconceptions
“You’ll fix it if it looks wrong”
Printers cannot know what “wrong” means without context, a reference, or a proofing step.
“It matched my screen”
Screens emit light, prints reflect light, and most screens are much brighter than paper. A screen match is not a reliable print reference by itself.
“It just needs a small adjustment”
Even small adjustments are subjective. They still require direction and approval.
How to get the best results
- Prepare accurate, print-ready files.
- Embed an RGB color profile.
- Review brightness, contrast, and crop before upload.
- Order a proof when color accuracy is critical.
- Use professional scanning for physical artwork originals.
Presentation choices like size, borders, and cropping can also affect the final look. Learn more in Selecting Print Size & Border Options.
Next steps
Next steps
Set up color expectations before printing
Use these pages when color, file setup, or surface choice is the part that needs more confidence.