What must be considered when selecting colors for a print project?

When selecting colors for a print project, considering whether the paper stock is coated or uncoated is crucial. Coated paper has a smoother finish and typically allows for more vivid colors and sharper images since the coating helps to retain ink on the surface. This results in a high-quality print that can exhibit richer hues and more detail.

In contrast, uncoated paper absorbs more ink, which can lead to a softer, more muted color appearance. The texture of uncoated stock can also affect how colors are perceived when printed. For instance, more absorbent surfaces may cause colors to appear darker than they do on coated surfaces. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of the chosen paper type helps in predicting how colors will translate from the digital design to the final printed product.

The other factors, though relevant in different contexts, do not directly influence color choice as significantly. While the light source can affect the perception of color, it is not a factor that impacts the press-ready decisions like paper stock does. Image resolution pertains more to the quality of detail than color representation, and file format affects how images are saved and transmitted rather than how colors will appear when printed. Hence, recognizing the difference between coated and uncoated stock is a key part of ensuring accurate