Photoshop File Size Save Issue

[Adolf Witzeling]

Hi Tonyman,
If you really have to work in such large dimensions (13×19 …2 Gig and more), I don’t think there is much you can do in Photoshop to make life easier. Only thing I can think of is “purge” often, use “scratch disk” ..

Every layer, even a blank layer occupies the same file amount than any other layer with data on it, so if you have layers that you don’t need…get rid of them. Reduce the amount of layers if possible, combine some layers if possible. When saving, save “as” will reduce file size as well, use compression when saving.

I don’t know your computer and ram specs, but if you can, add in as much memory as you can afford and the computer can hold.
Hope that helps.
Adi

[Richard Harrington]

Use adjustment layers
Save as a Layered TIFF with LZW compression

Richard M. Harrington, PMP

Author: Photoshop for Video, Understanding Adobe Photoshop, and ATS:iWork

[Mike Gondek]

If it is over 2gb, you need to save a large document format .psb.

You must have lots of layers as 13×19 is only 64mb with no layers. Masks (8bits and comprssed)dont increase file size as much as full layer with no transparency. I often do 38 1/2 x 96 1/4″ panels for trade shows, and those files never get over 200mb, and they often contain multiple type version layers.

Make sure your document is:

1)RGB
2)not in 16 bit per channel mode
3)Turn of maximimize compatibility (MC) when the popup comes during saving files, if you are not placing your psd in another app that requires MC.
4)try saving as Photoshop PDF with max quality. Tiff LZW is nice & nonlossy, but a postscript rip amy choke on it. If your rip can handle it, use LZW.
5) Convert to CMYK only when your artwork is apporoved to go to print

[Stan Brager]

If you’re hitting a 2gB limit and you have space available on your hard drive, check the format of that drive to make certain that it’s NTSF and not FAT32.

Stan
Stan Brager