Digital proofs are made directly from the computer authored
digital file without creating a set of films. The digital file
is the same file that will be used to create the printing
plates. The quality of digital proofs has improved to a level
that is acceptable for use as a contract proof, which is
necessary as the industry moves to a filmless workflow. Further
improvements involve proofing systems that create proofs
containing halftone dots, which gives a more accurate
representation of the image to be reproduced. When using digital
systems for proofing, be aware that the device(s) need to be
color calibrated often to maintain color accuracy, and color
bars should be used on every proof. A digital proofing process
involves printing each of the subtractive primary color
components of the image (cyan, magenta, yellow), and black on
one pass through the output device to create the full color
digital proof as shown below. Different types of digital color
printers A digital sublimation proof is the closest of all