Ries Graphics is pleased to announce that we have achieved G7 Master Certification! A result of extensive testing and calibration of our digital proofers and our presses, this certification demonstrates our commitment to consistent, quality printing.

What is G7?
The G7 standard was developed by IDEAlliance to help printers achieve the goal of consistent printing. G7 uses the principle of COLORIMETRY, which measures visual “appearance” and LaB values instead of dot percentages and ink density. In other words, it brings photographic principles to the press.

Using existing ISO standards for printing and printing inks, G7 specifies components of an image that define a similar “look” (or “visual appearance”) to the human eye by...

• Specifying a measurable, colorimetric definition for gray balance

• Using gray balance in midtones, along with image weight and contrast from highlights and shadows, as the determining factors in the likeness of the visual appearance of an image

• Defining measurable black and CMY gray-tone curves for an image, and

• Specifying the method for calibrating proofs and presses for those curves.

The old procedure of reading dot and density on a press sheet was inaccurate due to differences in presses, inks, paper and other variables. With G7, when you keep certain values constant (like ink and paper), you can read LaB values from any G7-capable output device and, after calibration, expect predictable and repeatable results.

What does G7 mean for you?
Quite simply, higher print quality! You’ll notice improved consistency between digital proofs and printed results, as well as from job to job — especially those using repeating elements and similar colors.