Skip to main content
M
Mateomono
Known Participant
March 4, 2025
Question

Graphics with transparency

  • March 4, 2025
  • 2 replies
  • 531 views

Hi,

I am working on a print project using InDesign. For this project, I am using graphics that were created in Illustrator. They where all  imported as AI files into InDesign.

 

I’ve noticed that in the link panel a couple of graphics have transparancy applied to them. From my limited understanding of print media, there shouldn't be any transparency.

 

My question is: should I go over all my graphics and adjust them in AI (Object > Flatten Transparency), or will it update automatically when exporting the file as PDF/X-1?

Thank you very much for any help!

2 replies

J
Community Expert
Jeffrey_SmithCommunity Expert
Community Expert
March 4, 2025

You do not need to adjust individual graphics, export to PDF/X-1 from Indesign will flatten transparent elements.

In a print workflow, transparency will be flattened somewhere, whether the DFE/RIP performs this or during the export process.

Dave Creamer of IDEAS
Community Expert
Dave Creamer of IDEASCommunity Expert
Community Expert
March 4, 2025

Nothing wrong with using transparency in print files--as long as your printer doesn't have equipment from the 90s.

PDF/X-1 will flatten transparency based on your settings. (Convert RGB/LAB to CMYK too.)

A "modern" printer would want a PDF/X-4 with does neither on your end. The printer takes care of it.

 

David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)
    M
    MateomonoAuthor
    Known Participant
    March 4, 2025

    @Dave Creamer of IDEASThank you for your response! So there is no need to flatten them? Are there any downsides of leaving them/things to look out for?

    Also, just for more info, none of my graphics have transparency, drop shadow, etc., applied to them, so I'm unsure why they were even marked that way in the first place. Plus, my graphics are all very simple vector art.

    Peter Spier
    Community Expert
    Peter SpierCommunity Expert
    Community Expert
    March 4, 2025

    Most likely the transparency is not an effect, but the lack of a background behind your Illustrator art. As @Dave Creamer of IDEAS says this shouldn't cause any problems in a modern print workflow.

    It would be a red flag if your printer asks you to flatten the transparency, export to PDF/1-a or convert text to outlines

      Terms & ConditionsAccessibility statement
      Using the community Terms of use Privacy Cookie preferences Do not sell or share my personal information ad choicesAdChoices