Soft proofing - print matching question

I've just gotten interested in having a lab do some work for me and they provided some printer/paper profiles. When I soft proof with these profiles in CS3, I find the difference between my final Photoshopped image and the soft proofed version to be extreme. The contrast and saturation are really off. How does one match the original to the soft proof version? Is there an easy way or is it trial and error? I currently print at home with an Epson R1800 with a custom profile and although I deal with differences in the soft proof, they're pretty small, so I've learned that a minor curves adjustment fixes things right up, but I'm struggling with the lab provided ones. I do calibrate/profile my monitor. Thanks for any advice.
Paul

Hi Paul,
If you haven't already started to learn about Color Management, now is the time to start.

The best thing to do is to try these site for starters...
http://www.livelygrey.com/2007/09/colormanagement_primer_part_1.html
http://www.livelygrey.com/2007/10/color_management_primer_part_2.html
http://digitaldog.net/
http://www.outbackphoto.com/color_management/

If you are a reader, search amazon for books by Bruce Frasier and/or Andrew Rodney.

Be patient, keep an open mind. It is not a conspiracy, it is a methodology. Just keep exploring and learning.

So long for now, TOM

Paul,

Please refer to this topic here in Digital Imaging regarding color management and soft proofing.

Printing Issues! posted by Jeff Wiebe

I hope this helps!

-PB

Thanks guys. Preston, the link you provided led me to my answer. Thanks.

You're welcome, Paul. Glad I was able to help and that it worked out for you.

-PB