Save as Photoshop PDF

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to save your file as a PDF in Adobe Photoshop with editable layers, embedded color profiles, and settings for print, security, and compatibility.

Select File > Save As and select Photoshop PDF from the file format menu.

Select Color to embed a color profile and Layers to keep your file editable, then select Save.

Select a preset from the Adobe PDF Preset dropdown that matches your intended use in the Save Adobe PDF dialog box.

Select Save PDF to create your Photoshop PDF file or continue with the optional steps for additional settings.

Select options from the Standard and the Compatibility dropdowns to specify PDF/X compliance and compatibility with the Acrobat version.

Use the left panel to adjust settings as needed:

  • General: Set basic PDF settings like file compatibility and default view.
  • Compression: Reduce file size by adjusting image quality and resolution.
  • Output: Manage colors and set PDF/X options for professional printing.
  • Security: Protect your document with passwords and set permissions.
    The Encryption Level is based on the PDF's Compatibility setting. To change it, select a different Compatibility option.
  • Summary: Review your choices before saving.

Select Save Preset to provide a name to save your settings for future use, and Save PDF.

The Save Adobe PDF dialog is open, showing General settings with options to preserve editing, embed thumbnails, and optimize for web.
Control how your PDF behaves across editing, previewing, and viewing environments.