In the world of graphic design and printing, there is a multitude of file formats, each with its own purpose and characteristics. When preparing artwork for your promotional products or custom uniforms, it’s essential to understand these file formats to ensure the best possible outcome. In this blog post, we will go over the most common artwork file formats – JPEG, PDF, AI, EPS, and PNG.
- JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group):
JPEG is a widely used and popular file format for digital images. It is commonly used for photographs and images with complex colour gradients. JPEG files are compressed, meaning they can be relatively small in size while maintaining acceptable image quality. However, each time a JPEG file is edited and saved, it loses some quality due to compression.
- PDF (Portable Document Format):
PDF is a versatile file format that preserves all elements of a design, including text, images, and fonts. It is commonly used for sharing artwork for review and printing. PDF files are generally non-editable, ensuring that the artwork remains consistent and unchanged during the printing process, however, some editing software can now edit to an extent.
- AI (Adobe Illustrator):
AI is a proprietary file format created by Adobe Illustrator, a popular vector graphics editing software. AI files are vector-based, meaning they use mathematical equations to represent graphics. As a result, AI files can be scaled infinitely without losing quality, making them ideal for logo designs and other illustrations.
- EPS (Encapsulated PostScript):
EPS is another vector-based file format commonly used for printing purposes. It can contain both vector and raster elements and is supported by most graphic design software and printers. Like AI files, EPS files can be resized without sacrificing quality.
- PNG (Portable Network Graphics):
PNG is a raster image file format that supports transparent backgrounds, making it suitable for web-based graphics and logos. Unlike JPEG, PNG files do not lose quality during compression, making them ideal for images with sharp edges and text. While PNG files are excellent for digital use, they may not be suitable for high-resolution printing. For printing purposes, it’s best to obtain the design in a vector format like AI or EPS.
Understanding different file formats is crucial to ensure the best possible results for your promotional products and custom uniforms. Our team of experts at Red Roo Australia will guide you to determine which format is best for your print requirement, ensuring your brand shines on every promotional product and uniform.
