A proof copy printing method implemented in a print shop. When a user desires to print a proof copy of a print job while reducing resource usage, the user activates a GUI screen, which allows the user to conveniently set multiple parameters that will achieve reduced resource usage. When printing the proof copy, the values set on the GUI screen are used to temporarily override the corresponding parameter values specified in the job ticket without modifying the job ticket itself. When the user desires to print the job normally, the user activates the GUI screen to cancel the proof mode. The system then prints the job using the job parameter values specified in the job ticket.