Preparing Media for PDF Export

Here you can learn how to optimize media for PDF output for learners.

Display of Media in PDF

The PDF export supports the following types of media: 

• Images added as standalone media
• Images in the media section
• Key visuals

However, some media types are deliberately excluded from the PDF export to maintain clarity and prevent the print output from becoming too large. These include:

• Background images for sections (the background image of the start page is displayed on the title page of the PDF document)
• Videos

Optimization Options for Media

For an optimal PDF document, consider the following aspects when preparing media:

1. Image Size and File Format

To prevent the PDF document from taking up too much storage space, pay attention to the image size: Individual images should not exceed 10,000 pixels. Ideally, images should be saved in JPG format, as this format requires less storage space than PNG. Note that certain images, such as those with transparency or labeled graphics in the image editor, are saved in PNG format. 

As with all export formats, images in JPG format are also optimized for size in the PDF export.

2. Resolution

The image resolution affects both the size and quality of the output. The minimum resolution should be 150 dpi; for complex graphics, a higher resolution is recommended. This ensures good readability and detail accuracy in the PDF.

3. Check Media and Add Alternative Versions

Before export, check each medium for visibility and readability in the PDF, including: 

• White images, such as icons on a dark background in the web version: In such cases, add a separate print view of the icon in color in the media asset form, as the background color is not displayed in the PDF document. A white icon would then be invisible. Learn more in the course on optimizing content for PDF export.
• For media such as documents, videos, video streams, and HTML packages, it may be useful to provide static graphics or transcripts as alternatives. 

To do this, you can add a print view for the medium or use conditional display and visibility settings for the section. This allows you to make media content visible in the web version only or display static alternatives in the PDF. More information can be found in the article on Conditional Display.

PDF files for authors and reviewers require additional considerations: If interactive media are included, a web link is often more advantageous to review all elements effectively.