Overview
The Next Gen Proofing Tool lets you view, comment, and approve photo proofs online. After receiving the email, you can annotate images, request changes, download a PDF, or compare versions. Once done, submit your decision and receive confirmation.
Note: We introduced an Express (No Proofing) option for Traditional and Traditional+ graphics in the Next Gen checkout, allowing you to skip the proofing step entirely. We recommend using this option only if you’ve used the service before and are confident that no image review is necessary. For full composites, we require proofing.
Important notice
The design team cannot redesign templates during the proofing stage. This includes requests such as:
- Changing fonts to match a team’s branding
- Moving or removing elements that affect multiple layers
- Converting a Memory Mate from horizontal to vertical
Proofing is meant for small corrections (names, rosters, minor layout tweaks), not for design overhauls.
If you’d like a template customized (fonts, orientation, or layout changes), these adjustments must be made in advance of your job through Off the Trail Graphics. Learn more about customizing Next Gen templates here.
Video tutorial
How do I review my proofs?
Once your proofs are ready, you’ll receive an email with a green Open Proof button. Click it to view your proofs online.
On the main proofing screen, you’ll see full-size images in the main window with thumbnails in a filmstrip layout. Use the thumbnails or pagination to browse through the graphics.
How do I download my proofs?
- Click the menu icon
in the top left. - Select Export Proof Report and choose your download option.
How do I leave comments on a proof?
- Click the yellow Comment button in the top right.
- Use the notation tools and comment box to leave detailed notes.
Be specific to avoid miscommunication. Clear directions lead to quicker revisions and production.
Example
If you want the year on a player template enlarged, use a shape tool to mark it and note: “Increase year size by 25%.”
How do I compare proof versions?
During the second proofing phase, click the compare icon to view both versions side-by-side.
This lets you easily compare the original and revised graphics side by side.
Click the X in the upper left to exit the comparison window.
How do I submit a final proofing decision?When you're ready to finalize your review, click the blue Make Decision button and choose one of the following options:
- Approved: No changes needed.
- Approved with changes: Changes needed, no further proof required.
- Changes required: Changes needed, and you'd like to review them again.
The takeaway
Submitting clear, specific annotations and decisions at each stage helps the design team make accurate changes quickly and gets your final graphics to clients faster.