PDF Technologies

How to Convert Photoshop Export as PDF

Tue. 12 Dec. 202315583

Adobe Photoshop is a powerhouse for creating stunning visuals. However, when it comes time to share these creations, you might need them in a more universal and easily accessible format like PDF. This is where PDF Reader Pro comes into play.

This versatile software offers an efficient and straightforward solution for converting Photoshop exports into PDFs, ensuring your artwork retains its quality and is ready for any form of presentation or distribution.

Theodore Cipolla
Blog Author - B2B SaaS Content Marketer
Theodore is a B2B SaaS Content Marketer with over ten years of experience. He is passionate about helping professionals appreciate the value of tools quickly.


How to Convert Photoshop Export as PDF for Windows

Let's dive into how you can convert your exported Photoshop images to PDFs for Windows users. 

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Step 1: In Photoshop, click on "File", "Export", "Export as..."



Step 2: Under "File Settings", choose between PNG or JPG formats

Click on "Export"



Step 3: Open PDF Reader Pro and click on "Image to PDF" on the home menu



Step 4: Select the Photoshop export image you would like to convert



Step 5: Edit your details and then click "Save as PDF"



We also have a comprehensive guide on how to edit a PDF in Photoshop if you need more help with the professional editing tool.

Now, let's find out how to achieve this process on a Mac device.

How to Convert Photoshop Export as PDF for Mac

Our Mac guide is equally comprehensive when it comes to exporting your Photoshop files to PDF.

Step 1: Navigate to "File" in Photoshop, then select "Export", followed by "Export as..."



Step 2: Within "File Settings", opt for either PNG or JPG formats Then, hit "Export"



Step 3: Select the "Image to PDF" option from the main menu



Step 4: Choose the image you exported from Photoshop for conversion


Step 5: Modify your information and subsequently click on "Save as PDF"




There you have it, everything you need to convert your Photoshop exports to PDFs!

"Using PDF Reader Pro has made my daily workday so much easier. I can do everything I need, like combining files or adding notes, all in one place. It speeded my document management and every task I work on."
Johan Müller
B2B SaaS Content Writer
Source: LinkedIn


How to Convert Photoshop Export as PDF: Best Practices

Converting Photoshop exports into PDF files is a critical process for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Leveraging the robust capabilities of Adobe Photoshop, this guide focuses on best practices for generating high-quality PDFs, ensuring that the original source of content is accurately represented in the final output.

1. Choosing the Right File Size and Format

  • File Size Considerations: When working in Photoshop, be mindful of the file size. Larger files offer higher quality but can be cumbersome for sharing. Striking a balance is key.
  • Format Dropdown Options: Utilize the format dropdown in the export dialog box to select the appropriate file type. JPG or PNG formats are suitable for most purposes before converting to PDF.

2. Color Conversion and Management

  • Color Option Settings: Pay close attention to color conversion settings. This step is crucial for maintaining the color fidelity of your original source, especially for color prints or color image requirements.
  • Lab Color and Color Space: For advanced users, understanding color spaces like Lab Color can enhance the quality of the PDF. However, standard RGB or CMYK color modes are generally sufficient for most users.
  • Selective Color Adjustments: Make any necessary color adjustments in Photoshop before exporting. This includes addressing color balance and making selective color adjustments to ensure the color range in the PDF matches the current document.

3. Layer and Channel Considerations

  • Type Layers and Layer Comps: Ensure that all type layers are correctly formatted and that layer comps are finalized. This step preserves the integrity of multi-layered or complex Photoshop projects.
  • Alpha Channels and Channel Images: For images with alpha channels or special channel images, confirm that these are correctly set up to be included or excluded as per your requirement.

4. Consulting with Community Experts

  • Dialog Box and Settings Confirmation: When in doubt, consult Photoshop community experts or forums. They can provide insights into the best settings for your specific project, especially in dialog box configurations.

5. Final Checks and Conversion

  • Review the Current Document: Before converting to PDF, do a final review of your Photoshop document. Check for any errors or missed elements.
  • Using 'Image to PDF' Feature: Utilize Photoshop's 'Image to PDF' feature or a reliable third-party tool for conversion. This ensures that your exported image from Photoshop maintains its quality and format integrity.

By following these best practices, you can effectively manage the conversion from Photoshop exports to high-quality PDF files, ensuring that your source of content is accurately and professionally represented.

"Before discovering PDF Reader Pro, I was merely grazing the surface of PDF tool capabilities. Now, I've achieved complete command over my documents, experiencing document management on an entirely new level."
Theodore Cipolla
B2B SaaS Content Marketer
Source: LinkedIn


You can also check our recommendations for resources on how to save as PDF in Photoshop.

How to Convert Photoshop Export as PDF: FAQ

How do I ensure special color effects are preserved when converting to PDF?

When converting Photoshop exports to PDF, special color effects can be preserved by carefully managing color profiles and ensuring color balance adjustments are accurately reflected. Use color lookup tables to maintain consistency and verify that the color cast and dynamic range of the image are as intended in the final PDF.

Will the average pixel color of my image change during the conversion?

The average pixel color of an image should remain unchanged during the conversion process if color management settings are correctly applied. It's essential to understand color basics and choose colors thoughtfully in Photoshop to ensure the color is accurately replicated in the PDF.

How can I maintain the blur and other effects in my Photoshop file when converting to a PDF?

To maintain blur and other effects, ensure that all layers and effects are correctly merged or flattened in Photoshop before conversion. This preserves the visual integrity of special effects like blur in the final PDF file.

Can I convert a Photoshop file with channels to a PDF without losing any information?

Yes, you can convert a Photoshop file with channels to a PDF without losing information. Ensure that all channels, including color channels and alpha channels, are properly configured and saved in the PSD file before conversion.

How do I adjust the image color for a color printer when converting to PDF?

To adjust image color for a color printer, utilize Photoshop’s color management tools. Color profiles and color tables should be adjusted to match the specifications of the color printer, ensuring accurate color reproduction in the printed PDF.

Is it possible to convert a batch of Photoshop files to PDFs simultaneously?

Yes, it is possible to convert a batch of Photoshop files to PDFs simultaneously. Use the 'Batch' function in Photoshop, accessible via the File menu item, to automate the conversion process for a batch of files.

What file types can I convert from Photoshop to PDF?

You can convert various file types from Photoshop to PDF, including PSD files, Illustrator files, and even vector files. Ensure you select the appropriate Adobe PDF presets for the file type during the conversion process.

How do I open my converted PDF file in Acrobat?

To open your converted PDF file in Acrobat, simply navigate to the file in your system and double-click it, or use the 'Open' option under the File menu item in Adobe Acrobat. Ensure that the document file is saved in a location accessible to Acrobat.

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