I'm trying to reduce the size of a PDF without the sharp reduction in quality you get by using Preview's size reduction filter. I found instructions for using custom quartz filters online, but they all direct me to install the file in System/Library/Filters. I've gotten into my Library folder, but as far as I can tell no "Filters" folder exists...Anybody know if it's moved in El Cap? I googled but couldn't find anything on this..
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What happened to System/Library/Filters?
- Thread starter unobtainium
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I don't think that's the same. PDF services appear as shortcuts in the printing panel, whereas filters appear when saving a PDF file.
@unobtainium: You can create a Filters folder in your local library or user library if it doesn't exist:
/Library/Filters
~/Library/Filters
The System directory is off-limits.
You could simply take a screen shot of the document and reduce the size in Photos.
I wasn't guessing on this. Filters copied to the PDF Services folder work in the "Save as PDF" menu.
It seems that you are right. Putting a .qfilter file into /Library/PDF Services will add an entry to the Quartz filter menu when saving a PDF. However, it will also add an entry to the PDF options of the print panel which doesn't do anything (see picture). The better way would be to use the Filters folder instead, because then the filter will only appear in the Quartz filter menu.
For those interested, I've attached a .qfilter file that reduces the file size of PDFs when saved with a Quartz filter. You should put it into /Library/Filters or ~/Library/Filters (just create the folder if it isn't there).
In my El Capitan the / Library / Filters are blocked. I can not add any files. How to solve?
Make sure you're trying to put them in /Library/Filters, not /System/Library/Filters, or in the Library folder that's inside your home folder.
Fantastic. This work great!!!! Thank you very much. I am shocked that Apple has removed this option from Sierra and such a workaround to get it back is even necessary.
Why is that a workaround? Seems like exactly the same thing as before. Just that the folder is not pre-created.
