camera-ready copy
nounPronunciation: /ˈkæmərə ˈrɛdi ˈkɒpi/
Also written as: CRC
Final formatted version of an article that is ready for printing or digital publication without further typographical changes.
Full Definition
Camera-ready copy refers to the final, fully formatted version of a manuscript or article that requires no additional typesetting or layout modifications before publication. In modern academic publishing, this term encompasses both print and digital formats, representing the final stage before content goes to press or is uploaded to digital platforms. The copy includes all final text, figures, tables, and formatting exactly as it will appear in the published version. This stage follows all editorial revisions, proofreading, and layout adjustments.
Plain English
The final version of an article that's completely ready to be printed or published online, with no more changes needed to how it looks.
In Editorial Context
The culminating deliverable in the editorial production workflow, representing content that has passed through all editorial, peer review, and production stages and is approved for publication release.
Etymology & History
Emerged during the era of phototypesetting when text was photographically captured to create printing plates, requiring perfectly formatted originals.
Originally literal (ready for camera photography), now metaphorical in digital publishing but retains meaning of 'publication-ready'.
Usage
"Authors must submit camera-ready copy by the specified deadline to ensure inclusion in the upcoming journal issue."
Usage note: Often hyphenated when used as an adjective (camera-ready), but may be written as separate words when used as a noun phrase.
Context: Production management, publishing workflows, author guidelines
Region: international
Also known as
Contrasted with
Don't confuse with
Unlike galley proofs which are for review, camera-ready copy is the definitive final version requiring no further changes.