Reducing the size of a file as PDF

[Rafael26281653wpvv]

Hello,

Can someone help me please? 

I am trying to save an Illustrator file from .AI to PDF.   In know how to save it, just don't know how I can decrease the size of the file so I can email it as an attachment, and not be such a huge file. 

It will be 8 files that I will combine afterwards in Acrobat so it's just one file to send. 

Currenty, when I save each file, it ranges from 50 to 130 MB.  This makes the combined file almost 800 MB once I combine them in Acrobat.  I would like to make the enire file under 5 MB, if possible.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can help me.  Greatly appreciate it.

[Monika Gause]

What's in the file?

As for pixel images: reduce their resolution and cropt them to just the area that is visible.

If there are CAD drawings in the files: just forget compression, it's not possible.

Don't outline fonts, since it creates many paths.

Reduce the raster effects resolution to what's absolutely necessary.

If this thing is meant to be printed, just forget compression altogether.

WHen saving: deactivate "Illustrator editability". Be aware that your expectation is unrealistic.

You might need to upload that thing to a server in order to make it available.

[Rafael26281653wpvv]

Thank you.  The file contains layers of pictures and text.  I didn't outline the fonts.  It is not for print, just to submit for approval and then send the AI file or printing.  If I deactivate "Illustrator Editability"  does it decrease size?  Am trying to avoid uploading through a download link, but seems it's probably my only option. 

[Monika Gause]

Disabling Illustrator editability will reduce the size about a half, probably less.

Reducing resolution will give you some more.

You have to absolutely make sure that you are doing that with a copy of the file.

Here's how Illustrator files work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpDh8Y7q8yE 

[Larry G. Schneider]

What happens if you turn off PDF compatible in the AI Options when saving? If you've left it on you will have extraneous copies of any image in your file.

[Ton Frederiks · Accepted solution]

In Acrobat you have options to reduce the size of your combined PDF. Have a look at: Save as Other > Optimized PDF...

[Rafael26281653wpvv]

Thanks Ton,

This worked.  It's exactyly what I needed.  Thanks again,

[Ton Frederiks]

Good to hear that helped. It is sometimes amazing how much files can be reduced with these options. The result may not be good for print production but good enough for review on screen.

[Rafael26281653wpvv]

Yes, it wasn't inteded for print production, just to submit for approval from client. 

Thanks again.