SavingFormats

SavingFormats

Q1:	Why can't I save an Alpha channel in a file? I have created an Alpha channel, but when I try to save, the choice to save it disappears. How come?
A1:	Chances are that you're trying to save in a format that doesn't "allow" Alpha channels, such as EPS. If you choose EPS as a format, the Alpha Channels option will be deselected and grayed out in the Save As dialog. In order to save with a channel, you must use another format such as TIFF or PSD.
Q2:	How do I save an image with the layers intact? I need to save my document and still be able to use all the layers . How should I do this?
A2:	Save in Photoshop format (PSD). This will save all the layers just as you leave them. It is also possible to save in TIFF and PDF and still preserve layers, but some applications may not recognize this version of PDF or TIFF.
Q3:	When should I save as EPS versus TIFF? Is one better than the otherhow do I decide?
A3:	There are a number of situations when the decision is made for you. For example, if you change your image into a duotone, then your only choice for saving is EPS. If you use spot color channels and will be printing to a press, you must save as Photoshop DCS. Photoshop DCS (which is a form of EPS file) will save each color channel (CMYK) as an individual file. If you aren't planning to print to a press, the file can also be saved as a TIFF. If you create clipping paths, you could use either TIFF or EPS, but most people seem to have better success with EPS. Another factor is the software you are placing your image into. Most page-layout software will work with both EPS and TIFF, while other applications prefer TIFF. If you need to send a file to someone and you're not sure what software they are using, TIFF is a better choice because it tends to be more of a "standard" format. Finally, if you're going to print, check with your service bureau /printer as they may have a format preference.
Q4:	What is the best format to save a file?
A4:	That depends on the final use of the document. For example, Web graphics are saved in GIF, JPG, or PNG, as those are the only three formats used on the Web. For print you might use EPS or TIFF, and the choice usually depends on factors of the file itself, or often, the opinion of your service bureau printerif they request EPS or TIFF, give them what they want (see previous question). Whatever format you choose, you should always consider also saving a version in PSD so you'll still have a layered version.
Q5:	How come the format I want to save is not available? I'm trying to save my document, but the format I want to save is not available. Why not?
A5:	The formats that are available when saving are based on various factors such as the color mode of your document (Grayscale, CMYK etc.), whether your file contains layers, and whether you have Alpha channels. To be able to access a full list of formats, you may have to use the File>Save As command because this will allow you to make a copy that does not have layers, channels, etc. Often you can just choose the format you want and it will automatically discard layers, channels, etc., for you. Note: You'll end up with two versions of your documentone in the format you want, and the original layered document, ideally in PSD format.
Q6:	Is it possible to create a PDF file from Photoshop?
A6:	Yes, PDF is one of the formats available for saving in Photoshop. Under File>Save As select PDF from the Format pop-up menu. Turn on the Layers checkbox in the Save As dialog, click Save, and then select your settings in the Save Adobe PDF dialog.