Magazine Spread Layouts

Can not understand how to export my layout magazine so it will be ready to go with my local printer (not Kinko's). It will of course be willing to print as a real magazine. Just need a little help.

I have a blog on how to prepare and package an InDesign file for print production.

http://www.kaiphoto.com/kaiydesign/2009/ ...

The basics are as follows:
Preparation of file:
Check bleeding (the standard is 125 inches, 3 mm for international files)
All fonts used in the document must be opened.
Check Links.
Clean the color chart.

Package file:
Choose File> Package
Complete company info if desired, then click Continue and select the destination folder for package files.

Tick the boxes: Copy fonts, copy linked graphics, graphical update links in the package include fonts and links in documents hidden layers.

More complete instructions are on my site.

It is better to send to your printer in a pdf file. But we will back a bit. Quark and InDesign programs layout, and you can use one or the other (provided you know how to use it) for layout. In the past, Quark has been the program of choice among designers, but now, as far as I know, most places have moved or switch to InDesign. Many different reasons why, but this is neither here nor there. The fact is that InDesign is probably the safest bet if you're new to this, if only because it is used increasingly there are more resources for learning InDesign, etc. and because you can get through an integrated package Adobe - Creative Suite 4, you need to put in stores (which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat, etc..) However, regardless is the program you choose to use - InDesign or Quark - you must save the file as a PDF (InDesign you choose the impression "that" command and print to PostScript, then use Adobe Distiller to convert PostScript file pdf) and send that to the printer. Why? Because sending native files (ie Quark or InDesign files) to the printer puts you at risk of having changes made to your files. A PDF file, on the other hand, is a closed file can not be falsified (and it might, but it is unlikely that a printer would do).

I hope this was helpful. If all sounds like Greek to you, then I am afraid it is time for you to learn at least some layout and graphic programs. I've never used but I have heard many good things about Lynda, com, which has tons of videos teaching various graphic programs for very reasonable fees. Good luck with your magazine!