A method for efficiently handling image data may involve creating an imaging job that includes image data corresponding to an outputting operation that is to be performed by an imaging device. The method may also involve determining whether the image data includes one or more reduced size images in addition to one or more full size images. The method may also involve determining whether the one or more reduced size images are satisfactory for the outputting operation. If the image data includes the one or more reduced size images in addition to the one or more full size images, and if the one or more reduced size images are satisfactory for the outputting operation, the method may involve despooling the one or more reduced size images to the imaging device without despooling the one or more full size images to the imaging device.