Do you ever find yourself stuck wondering if you should send a JPG instead of a PNG? Or maybe the .AI would work best? Come to think of it, do you even know what any of these mean?
Unless you have a background in graphic design, chances are you've never needed to know things like what separates a PNG from a PDF or a PSD. While the large variety of file types may seem overwhelming, we're here to explain.
We've put together a brief but useful outline to help you understand the difference between each file type, and when they are appropriate to use.
What Are The Different File Types?
When To Use Each File Type
What Are The Different File Types?
Raster Image Files
Raster file types display static images where every pixel has a fixed color, position, and proportion based on their resolution (for example 1280×720).
This means you cannot resize the images because the original design will get stretched to fill the extra space creating a distorted image.
The most common files used on the internet (JPEG, GIF and PNG) are all under the raster category.
Vector Image Files
Unlike the static raster image formats, vector files are more flexible and can be resized while maintaining the original design.
This means you can endlessly enlarge or shrink the original image resolution without any loss in quality or distortion of the graphic.
SVG, EPS, AI, and PDF are examples of vector file types.
Native Files
Not only are there image formats, but many applications have their own native file format too. This is essentially a working file of the design that can be opened up and further edited.
It is always good to save a version of the native format if you plan to make future edits like making edits to the design, changing colors etc.
PSD, AI and CDR are examples of native file types.
When To Use Each File Type
Get ready to explain everything! Start with a catchy introductory sentence or two to get the ball rolling, and then begin sharing your insights with your audience.
"Can you send us your logo to post online?"
Best options: PNG, JPEG, JPG
(These options will provide a logo to be used on websites, social media, PowerPoints etc. without being too large of a file.)
"Can you send us your logo for printing on promotional items?"
Best options: PDF, EPS, AI, PSD, SVG
(These options will be best to ensure that your logo is a vector file that can be scaled up or down to be printed without distorting the design.)
"We need to make edits to your logo can you send us the file?"
Best options: AI, PSD, CDR
(These options will provide a working file of your design that can be opened in a graphic design program and fully edited.)
You Are Now A Qualified Graphic Designer
Just kidding.
But you definitely know a bit more about graphics than the average person now! And hopefully this post was able to give you all the knowledge you will need moving forward to select the correct graphic type and *actually* know what you're talking about this time.