Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Hello
I have created a design in Illustrator and exported to PDF 1.5 which prints fine. I always save as a PDF so I can save with crop marks.
When I import the PDF into InDesign the transparent areas show up as white again.
I can import and print as a bitmap (TIFF or JPEG) or EPS but these don't include the crop marks
I have tried to flatten the problem object in Illustrator, but the transparent part of the shadow shows as white.
This is my normal workflow, so its driving me doolally.
Any help appreciated.
As it should look PDF in Indesign Illustrator with flattened Alpha transparency
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Sounds like you're flattening over a spot color. Stop flattening is the best answer. Turn on overprint preview is the second best.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
When you place a file from Illustrator use either the AI file or a saved (not printed) PDF/X-4.
When you create a PDF from InDesign, don't print it, export it as PDF.
Never flatten graphics in Illustrator nor image layers in Photoshop. Why should you do so.
Never use EPS.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
For InDesign's use you will never need crop marks. Leave them away, no one needs them.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Thanks for your help
I managed it. I´m sure its not the only solution. In Illustrator I flattened the transparency but check boxed the "Preserve Overprints and Spot Colours" instead of the "Preserve Alpha Tranparency" option. Then exported as PDF/X-4. I could then print from from Indesign, without the previous problems.
Willi. I need crop marks to guillotine the final printed material.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
When you use AI files in InDesign you should NEVER flatten transparency in Illustrator. Why should you do so?
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Hi Willi
Because it was the only way I found to solve the problem.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Then you have the reason of the problem not solved yet.