Raster Graphics - jpg, jpeg, gif, png, tif, tiff, bmp, psd, and sometimes pdf
- Raster graphics are constructed from pixels (tiny dots or squares of color)
- They are the best way to clearly reproduce photographs because the pixels in the image allow the smooth blending of colors.
- When raster images are made larger, you can see the pixels. Nothing can be done to improve this. (Except make it into Vector Art)
- These types of images typically need to be redesigned as vector art to be suitable for decorating promotional products, especially when spot colors are used.
Vector Graphics - eps, ai, cdr, and sometimes pdf
- A vector image doesn't have any pixels, therefore it can be blown up or shrunk down to any size and it will not lose its quality.
- This type of image doesn't have any pixels because it is an outline image of a raster file.
- Because of this, you cannot simply rename your raster file to a vector format and expect it to convert the art.
- Your raster file must be redrawn in a vector format in order to be suitable for printing on a promotional product.
- The number of colors in a vector graphic can be easily increased or decreased to adjust printing budget, but they are not the best format for photographs or photo-like images with blends of color.
Outlined Text
- If you have specific fonts in your vector art that you want to print exactly on your promotional product, you MUST convert the text to outlines!
- If a particular font is not installed on a computer trying to open your file, then the computer will substitute a generic font for your original font, and it completely changes the way the text would appear and print.
- When you convert your font to outlines, it allows the computer to read the text as artwork, and print EXACTLY as you see it on your screen.
WHAT IF I DON'T KNOW HOW TO DO THIS?
- No worries, Promo Images can convert your file to vector art for $25. (If your file is a highly complex design, we will quote you before proceeding.)