How to Convert RGB to CMYK in Photoshop and Illustrator:
A Step by Step Guide With Screenshots

Written by UPrinting • Updated on June 17, 2024



Converting RGB to CMYK is essential for ensuring your designs print accurately. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, complete with screenshots to make it easy to follow. Whether you're preparing your work for print or need a reliable color conversion, this tutorial has you covered.

Converting File From Photoshop


  1. Open your image in Photoshop.

  2. Screenshot of adobe photoshop open file
  3. Click on the 'Image' menu at the top of the screen.

  4. Hover over 'Mode' in the dropdown menu.

  5. Select 'CMYK Color'.

  6. Screenshot of adobe photoshop selecting cmyk color in image mode
  7. Save your image. It's recommended to save a new version of your CMYK image, so you still have the original RGB file.

  8. Screenshot of adobe photoshop save as

Converting File From Illustrator


  1. Open your document in Illustrator.

  2. Screenshot of adobe illustrator open file
  3. Click on the 'File' menu, then select 'Document Color Mode'

  4. Choose 'CMYK Color'.

  5. Screenshot of adobe illustrator selecting cmyk color in file-document color mode
  6. Save your CMYK image as a new file to preserve the original RGB version.

  7. Screenshot of adobe illustrator save as