If this is the first time producing a digital cover for Lightning Source (or the first time in a while), please take a moment to review our submission standards and best practices:

• • FAQ
• • Calculate Book Weight

Interior specifications explained:

• • Black and White Interior Books
• • Color Interior Books

Below are instructions for creating a Lightning Source compliant PDF file from various applications.

Windows and Macintosh*:

• • InDesign
• • Quark

* Macintosh screenshots are shown in some documentation but the overall information may vary slightly from current Window's versions.

Windows:

• • Microsoft Word - Not recommended for creating color interiors

This is a very important – yet often overlooked – step in the process. Please open and review your newly created PDF to insure that all elements are present and properly represented in your PDF prior to submitting it for printing. Incomplete or incorrect digital files will put your project behind schedule and could add charges to your account.

• • How to review your PDF prior to uploading (click to print instructions)
• • Or watch video below

Once you have the PDF completed and double-checked, it is time to upload the file to the Lightning Source servers via our website.

Note: The upload area is typically in the publisher’s password-protected account. If you are a Designer who does not have access to this area, you may:

1. Request for the publisher to email you a direct link to the upload area for this title (you will need a different link for each title needing to be uploaded).
2. Supply the publisher with the PDF file and the publisher can upload the file from their account.
3. Request the username and password of the publisher’s account.