How Do I Save Something as a Pdf in Adobe Photoshop?

Whether you want to convert a resume, newsletter, or other documentation, saving a file as a PDF in Photoshop is easy and convenient for sharing and viewing. Since not everyone has the proper application to open PSDs, consider a resourceful alternative to ensure your recipients can open and read your files using a compatible program. Contact a customer service agent if you have any questions about the conversion process.

Adam Goldkamp is the editor / author responsible for this content.
Jan 6, 2022

Using an efficient technique, you can save numerous file types as PDFs in Photoshop. However, the process requires manual instructions because users don't have the option to convert their documents automatically. Therefore, following step-by-step instructions are critical for converting a PSD to PDF.

How to Save a PSD as a PDF

While Photoshop is mainly used to edit and export high-quality images, the software also allows users to convert PSDs into other documents. For example, a presentation or an infographic are two project types convertible as PDFs. In addition, Photoshop will save your files in the exact location as the original media by default. Therefore, if you open a photo from your desktop folder, the file will appear as an icon on your desktop.

Since some users still rely on previous software versions such as PS5 and PS6, one method is effective and produces the same result on both platforms.

1. Open your PSD in Photoshop.

2. Click the File dropdown menu.

3. Select Save As.

4. Choose Format and then Photoshop PDF.

5. Click Save.

A dialog box will require you to select a specific PDF preset. The option provides three document quality choices ranging from low to high. Also, depending on your Photoshop version, you must select the right compatibility option to ensure your file will convert without an issue.

Remember to deselect the box next to Preserve Photoshop Editing Capabilities. This method significantly reduces your file size and is suitable for emails or document submissions.

6. Click Save PDF.

If your original file has a .psd extension, do not delete it after converting a PSD to PDF. Otherwise, you won't be able to undo your changes later. Additionally, if your file is still too large to submit as an attachment, you can reduce its size by repeating steps 1-6, and then clicking the "Compression" section.

7. Select High next to Image Quality, then save your PDF.

Rules for saving your PSD projects as PDFs have changed in Photoshop CC. You now have to preserve a copy, mainly when converting a layered file to a single-layer format.

1. Go to File > Save As.

2. In the Format dropdown list, find Photoshop PDF and create a copy of an open PSD file.

3. After you click Save, a pop-up dialog box displays various options.

4. Choose Adobe PDF Preset, depending on your project specifications.

Commonly used presets:

  • High-Quality Print: A common choice for color photos and or documents that require accurate
  • Smallest File Size: Ideal for digital documentation displayed on websites or sent via email.

5. Click Save PDF.

Contacting Adobe Photoshop

Each contact method may have different rules regarding waiting periods, and you may need an alternative if your primary approach fails.

Phone: If you want top-priority service, place a call as early as 9 AM to ensure you receive a response within the same day.

If you prefer to contact GetHuman directly, you can communicate with its support team by submitting an inquiry.

Contact Form: Ask questions via the GetHuman form if you need advanced assistance or solutions to minor issues.

Talk to an Expert: While expert technical support is available around the clock, it would be best to contact a Photoshop specialist during the earliest business hours. Also, assistance includes a $1 fee for a single session due to a high volume of requests.

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Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.

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Adobe Photoshop

Asked 3 years ago
Updated 3 years ago
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Adobe Photoshop
Converting a PSD to PDF
Saving Your PSD Projects as PDFs

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