Proof

A print proof is a pre-production sample generated to verify design elements before the final commercial run. It serves as the critical checkpoint for checking layout, typography, image resolution, and colour accuracy. Because digital displays use additive RGB light while physical print uses subtractive CMYK ink, a proof is essential to identify potential colour shifts that cannot be seen on a screen.

Types of proofs vary in fidelity. Digital proofs offer a quick preview, while contract proofs are printed on the actual press or a calibrated device to guarantee the final output matches the approved sample. For business cards, reviewing a physical proof allows you to check paper weight, finish, and trim alignment, ensuring the final product meets professional standards.