Sunday 9 September 2007

MALAYSIANS Update 3

I spent just over a week in Kuala Lumpur to copy proof the pages of my forthcoming book MALAYSIANS. It has been a refreshing change of scenery after a dull and damp August in London. Mind you the rain also poured down in KL but at least it doesn't linger like it does here, back in the UK. Luckily, the heavens shone over the Merdeka weekend, sparing the several thousand participants and VIPS at Dataran Merdeka from a drenching. It was very warm and humid indeed.

I visited my publisher and graphic designer several times, and began to learn more about the book printing process. This time, unlike the previous publication, we will be using the CTP or computer-to-plate process, as opposed to CTF (computer-to-film). This modern process completely removes one whole step ie. the elimination of the making of films which is time consuming, prone to errors or registration and colour accuracy. It is also about 30% more cost effective, which can only be a good thing.

I still have to sign off the final digital proofs, which I am expecting to arrive by courier any day now. Barring any major amendments or disasters(!!) it will take another 2 weeks to print.

I have also been busy locating a suitable venue for the book launch. Many establishments have been put forward and visited, and we have so far narrowed it down too a couple of prime places in KL. It has been put forward that
I should display some of the portraits in a small exhibition at the same time. This now seems like a real possibility, thanks to Elizabeth, my local promoter. More on this later!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

It's interesting to learn about the printing of books with photos - I've not had to be involved in that as novels are all about words.

It's very exciting that the launch of the book is soon coming up!

svllee said...

Hi Yang-May, good to hear from you! Yes, with pictorial books, layout and colour accuracy is vital, especially for photography books. I hope with CTP printing, there is little loss in the process. Hope all's well with you.

Rox said...

I can't wait to get hold of one! Keep us updated.

svllee said...

Hi Roxanne, please do! I need every ounce (or gram) of support for this project...