Color & workflow
RGB or CMYK: What Should You Send to the RIP?
Should every RGB image be converted before printing?
Follow the requirements of your validated RIP workflow rather than converting every file by habit. Preserve source-profile information and agree how critical colors will be approved.
Avoid ambiguous handoffs Ask the customer or designer which color space and embedded profile describe the artwork. Keep an untouched source copy. Unnecessary conversions can make later diagnosis difficult, especially when a customer compares the print with an uncontrolled screen.
Test the complete path Use a consistent test file and document where conversion happens. Confirm the output preset before adjusting the artwork to compensate for an unknown process. For critical jobs, agree on a physical proof or measurable target instead of a screen impression alone.