Understanding Image Formats
In the visual realm of graphic design, various image formats serve distinct purposes.
Understanding when to use each format can be a game-changer for your brand.
Let's delve into the ABCs of image formats.
1 - Raster File Types
The type of files of this first category are raster files. What does that mean? These are:
Pixel-based
Non-scalable and will lose quality when scaled
Resolution dependent
a - .JPEG or .JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)
Purpose: Ideal for photographs and complex graphics.
Use me if:
You want to add an image / graphics to your website.
You want to upload your logo or other graphics online and on social media such as Instagram.
Don’t use me if:
You need a logo or graphics with a transparent background - You are sending anything to be printed. As they are pixel based, they are often low quality when printed.
b - .PNG (Portable Network Graphics)
Purpose: Preserves image transparency.
Use me if:
You want a graphic with a transparent background, such as a watermark over photos or a header on your website.
Don’t use me if:
You want to upload to Instagram. Instagram always decreases the quality of png files.
You are sending anything to be printed. As they are pixel based, they are often low quality when printed.
c - .WEBP (Web Picture Format)
Purpose: The new format! WebP is a modern image format that provides superior lossless and lossy compression for images on the web. WebP typically achieves an average of 30% more compression than JPEG and JPEG 2000, without loss of image quality. This new format essentially aims at creating smaller, better looking images that can help make the web faster.
Use me if:
You want to add an image / graphics to your website.
Don’t use me if:
You want to upload your logo or other graphics online and on social media such as Instagram.
You are sending anything to be printed.
d - .TIFF (Tag Image File Format)
Purpose: A TIFF is a large pixel-based file that maintains the file information (such as Photoshop layers). TIFFs are commonly used for high-resolution photos or images used for print.
Use me if:
You want to save high-quality images for print (CMYK only).
Don’t use me if:
You want to upload images online, on a website or on social media.
2 - Vector Type Files
The second category of files fall under the vector type. What does that mean? These are:
Scalable
High quality
Common for graphics
a - .SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)
Purpose: Resizable without losing quality.
Use me if:
You are sending large-scale designs to be printed such as billboards or signs.
Perfect for logos, icons, and any scalable graphics on websites. Offers adaptability across various screen sizes.
b - .EPS (Encapsulated Post Script)
Purpose: contains the raw vector design and can be edited.
Use me if:
You are working with another designer. They will appreciate having the raw files as they are high quality.
You are sending large-scale designs to be printed such as billboards or signs.
Don’t use me if:
You need a transparent graphic.
If you want to upload your graphics anywhere, EPS files aren’t often uploadable.
3 - A Special Case
Most PDFs are raster files. However, it depends on the program used to create the document because PDFs can also be saved as vector files. Most PDF files are read only, however some are editable for documents such as forms.
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Purpose: Maintains layout consistency across devices.
Use me if:
You are sending designs to be printed. Most printers prefer PDFs as they are easy to prep and preview.
You need to display any documents online or over email (price lists, e-books, posters etc.).
Don't use me if:
You want to upload graphics anywhere. PDFs aren't often uploadable file types, so they won’t be displayed as an image.
Conclusion: Choosing Wisely
Selecting the right image format is like choosing the right tool for the job. Understanding their purposes empowers you to make informed decisions about your visual assets.
Do you need some help to take your brand to the next level?
Let’s work together and infuse your brand with an edge that leaves a lasting impression in the sea of sameness!
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Elisa
