Comparing read image data to corrective image data to determine if the read image data is appropriate for image formation

An image control apparatus comprising:

• a hardware processor,
• wherein the hardware processor is configured to perform a printing check process for a job comprising a plurality of pages by:
• obtaining read image data generated by reading an image formed on a sheet;
• setting read proof image data generated by reading a proof image formed on a sheet in a proof output as first correct image data;
• setting input image data as second correct image data;
• and
• performing an image check in variable data printing by comparing the read image data obtained by the hardware processor with the first correct image data in a first area of the read image data where different images are printed on different pages and by comparing the read image data obtained by the hardware processor with the second correct image data in a second area of the read image data outside the first area.