Save files in EPS and DCS formats.

Last updated on Oct 10, 2026

Use PostScript-based formats to create files for professional printing workflows and color separations.

Save files in EPS or DCS format when preparing images for professional print workflows that require PostScript output devices. EPS is used for placing images in page layout, word processing, or graphics applications, while DCS specifically handles CMYK or multichannel images that require color separations. Both formats require a PostScript printer for full-resolution output; non-PostScript printers' output only the low-resolution preview.

EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) preserves vector elements, such as shapes and type, for use in other applications, though they rasterize when you reopen the file in Photoshop. DCS (Desktop Color Separations) extends EPS capabilities by supporting spot color channels and offering both single-file and multiple-file options for managing color separations.

Save a file as a Photoshop EPS

Select File > Save As and choose Photoshop EPS from the Format menu.

Specify a filename and location, then select Save.

Choose a preview option from the Preview menu. Select TIFF (8-bit) to share files between Windows and Mac OS systems.

Select an encoding method from the Encoding menu. Choose ASCII or ASCII85 if you're printing from Windows or experiencing print errors. Select Binary for smaller files, or JPEG to compress the file.

Select Include Vector Data if your image contains shapes or type that you want to preserve for use in other applications.

Select Image Interpolation to apply bicubic smoothing when the low-resolution preview is printed.

Select OK to save the EPS file.

Note

JPEG encoding requires Level 2 or later PostScript printers and may not separate into individual plates. For high-end commercial printing, consult your print service provider before selecting Include Halftone Screen or Include Transfer Function. Select Transparent Whites only when saving Bitmap mode images, so white areas appear transparent.

Save color separations as DCS

Select File > Save As and choose either Photoshop DCS 1.0 or Photoshop DCS 2.0 from the Format menu.

Specify a filename and location, then select Save.

Configure preview and encoding options in the DCS Format dialog box as you would for EPS files.

From the DCS menu, choose how to save your color channels. For DCS 1.0, select whether to create a composite preview file. For DCS 2.0, select whether to save as multiple files or as a single file.

Select whether to include a 72-ppi grayscale or color composite for placement in page-layout applications.

Select OK to save the DCS file.

Tip

DCS 2.0 format retains spot color channels, making it ideal for images with custom inks. The single-file option saves disk space while preserving all separation data. DCS 1.0 creates one file for each color channel in a CMYK image, plus an optional fifth file for the composite. To view the DCS 1.0 composite file, keep all five files in the same folder.

Understanding encoding options

Understanding encoding options helps you choose the right method for your workflow:

ASCII encodes image data using text characters, ensuring compatibility with older systems and network printing environments. Use this option when printing from Windows or troubleshooting print errors.
ASCII85 offers the same compatibility as ASCII but produces files approximately 20% smaller through more efficient encoding.
Binary creates the smallest files by preserving original data without text conversion. Some page-layout applications and print spoolers may not support binary encoding.
JPEG compresses files by selectively discarding image data. JPEG encoding requires a PostScript printer at Level 2 or higher.

When saving CMYK images with PostScript Color Management enabled, ensure your output device supports PostScript Level 3. For Level 2 printers, convert CMYK images to Lab mode before saving in EPS format.

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