Regular readers of the Prizma Graphics blog will know how enthusiastic we are about nearly anything and everything to do with Canon large-format printers.

However, even the most impressive specifications in a wide-format printer – including vivid and sharp print results, a user-friendly interface, and/or the ability to produce prints swiftly – might seem of limited use if you are constantly printing at the wrong size or orientation for your needs.

Such a situation risks you regularly wasting time and consumables. This, then, is largely why Canon’s ImagePROGRAF machines offer a “print preview” function. 

What is the “print preview” function on Canon printers?

The idea behind the print preview feature on Canon ImagePROGRAF devices is to enable users to view a digital representation of what their document will look like, before they commit to actually printing it.

This allows the user to double-check that such aspects as the layout, print order, and media settings are in line with their needs, before they commence the printing operation.

It also, of course, helps save a lot of time and frustration when using Canon large-format printers. This may be particularly relevant for people who are still getting accustomed to the features and capabilities of a machine they have only recently acquired.

How to use “print preview” on your Canon ImagePROGRAF device

The “print preview” feature has existed for a long time on Canon large-format printers, and it has not always worked in the same way.

So, while the preview function on some Canon models may allow users to rotate, nudge, or arrange images to help optimise paper usage, this might not be the case for your own device.

We would therefore urge you to only treat the below information as general guidance. To learn more about how “print preview” works on your ImagePROGRAF machine, we would advise you to seek out the searchable PDF manual for your device via the Canon Europe website.

The broad step-by-step process of using print preview, however, is as follows:

  1. Go to your operating system’s print settings and open the print driver setup window
  2. Navigate to the “Main” tab, which is usually where general print settings are displayed
  3. Check the “Preview before printing” box, to enable the print preview functionality for each printing job
  4. Adjust settings if you wish to do so, encompassing such aspects as the media type or paper source
  5. Confirm and print once you’re satisfied with the preview.

The exact process is liable to differ between Windows and Mac platforms.

Other features exist on Canon large-format printers to help you control your print results

Don’t forget that print preview isn’t the only feature on a Canon ImagePROGRAF printer that can enable you to exercise a high level of control before you confirm a print job.

For some ImagePROGRAF models, for instance, Canon offers Professional Print and Layout software. This incorporates robust preview and editing tools to help you print rapidly to your exact desired specifications.

Do you have any questions about the Canon large-format printers currently in our stock here at Prizma Graphics, including their specific features and performance? If so, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly via phone or email.