When should we convert to CMYK? It can be done at several stages in the process including
1. Convert during the scan if possible or immediately after the scan.
2. Edit the RGB file and convert to CMYK (usually with Photoshop) immediately prior to output.
3. Allow the conversion to occur in the RIP.
- Regardless of when the conversion is done, it should be only performed once. Conversion to and from other spaces cause degradation of the image.
- If possible do most work in RGB (for images scanned into RGB) since that space is closer in gamut to the CIE models than CMYK, or into device independent color.
- They are three dimensional like the human visual system.
- Corrections for specific output devices should be performed after converting to CMYK, taking care to note the specific printing ink setups and separation setups.