Media data codes GDSN

What is the clipping path?

A clipping path is a concept used in image editing to isolate an object from its background. It is a defined path or selection around the desired object that allows for the background to be removed and the object to be cut out.

The clipping path is usually created with the help of special software that allows for precise contours to be drawn around the object. The path is placed around the shape of the object to allow for an accurate separation between the object and the background.

Once the clipping path is created, the background can be removed and replaced with another background. This is particularly useful when creating product photos for an online shop and wanting to present the object against a neutral or suitable background.

The clipping path is an important tool in image editing to precisely cut out objects and give them a professional look. With the help of clipping paths, even complex shapes and fine details can be neatly cut out without unsightly edges or distortions.

What challenges does this bring?

We often deal with product images where this path is either completely missing, has too many at once, or has been poorly executed. Sometimes it also happens that the layer of the path was created in Photoshop, but the actual path is missing.

Why is this so important?

Modern content workflows in retail require that product images comply with exact conventions. The file format, resolution, and image quality are critical. But also the actual file name and the clipping path. If data, for example, is transferred to Markant or GDSN, these specifications must be met; otherwise, the data will be rejected and will not make it to the market, as well as other consequences are to be expected since the processes can be severely disrupted.

The clipping path holds a special significance here. Because it must be executed absolutely correctly. This is actually standard practice for a prepress professional. In the course of distributing such services to various agencies that do not primarily originate from image processing and are also subjected to significant cost pressure, it is unfortunately often not done professionally. In addition, the magnitude is often not known. Therefore, here are the essential parameters that are important when creating the clipping path:

• Only one path in the image file

• Name the path as Path 1

• No automated paths with many path points, create manually and as few path points as necessary

• Perfectly position at the edge of the product image

• Save as JPG/RGB, high quality (Photoshop 12)

  
  

The requirement that there should only be one path has an important reason. Modern systems such as our dynamicTOOLS automatically generate download formats from the path, which can create a PNG with semi-transparency (24 Bit) from this JPG, for example. If there are now multiple paths in the file, the system cannot know which path to apply.

Conclusion

This once again shows how important it is to have production knowledge and especially knowledge about the further workflows when creating or processing product images.

Immense costs can arise if this has to be reworked afterwards. Additionally, it has a significantly negative impact on time-to-market.

A DAM system (Digital Asset Management System) is a software solution for the central storage, organization, management, and distribution of digital content – so-called digital assets. This includes images, videos, graphics, audio files, documents, and other media content used in companies or organizations for marketing, communication, sales, or internal purposes.

The aim of a DAM system is to improve efficiency and consistency in dealing with digital files. Instead of manually managing media in various folders or via emails, a DAM offers a structured, searchable, and versioned platform. Users can upload files, tag them with metadata (e.g., title, description, copyright information), categorize them, add keywords, and share them with other users.

A key feature is the search function: With filters and keywords, content can be found quickly and targeted. Furthermore, many DAM systems provide interfaces to other software solutions, such as content management systems (CMS), marketing platforms, or product information systems (PIM).

DAM systems are particularly valuable for companies with large amounts of content and distributed teams. They help ensure brand consistency, as all stakeholders can access up-to-date and shared media. Additionally, they protect against unauthorized access through role and permission management.

In summary, a DAM system is the central point of contact for the professional handling of digital media content – it saves time, reduces errors, and sustainably supports a company's media-based communication.

A download format is created by administrators in the backend. These media formats can be defined in the following parameters and authorized accordingly:

• File size/pixel values, e.g. 2000 px long side

• File format (jpg, tif, png)

• Color space CMYK to RGB

• Application of embedded color profiles

• Application of included cutouts (paths), so that semi-transparency can be achieved with the file format png (24-bit format)

Why are download formats needed?

Only the optimal original format for each image is now required. Uploading additional formats like jpg, gif, etc., as was common practice in the past, is no longer necessary. This significantly reduces the complexity of media data management and greatly improves flexibility.

We can specify exactly how this original file format should be created for you. This way, you can provide your agency with ideal guidelines so they know how to deliver data.

Typical use cases for download formats?

Download formats are needed, for example, in the following scenarios:

• 300 dpi jpg with cutout for print productions

• 2,000 px jpg RGB for web usage

• 2,000 px png/24 bit for office and web usage

• 3000 px with cutout and defined formats for GDSN (GS1)

• and many more