The Right File Types for Each Creative Job

In the creative world there are many, many file types for different projects. Different programs work with different file types so it can be extremely confusing. As a business owner, you only need to know these 4 basic file types for your branding projects. These are the most common types you're likely to come across or need in your business.

JPG

This format is ideal for small format printing of just the basic logo. It does not have a transparent background so it should be placed on a white background to avoid a white “square” around the logo. This file type is ideal for customized checks, official documents, letterhead, or anything simple that requires a logo on a white background. Images intended for print or social media also work as JPGs. The term “JPG” or “JPEG” is an acronym for “Joint Photographic Experts Group” which created this file format in 1992.

EPS

The Encapsulated PostScript file, or, EPS, is a high-resolution vector file used for printing large scale things like banners or apparel. It is the ideal file type for all printing for the crispest outcome. It has a transparent background so these files can be layered on top of colored backgrounds or images without a white square behind it.

PNG

The PNG, or Portable Network Graphic, is a bitmap image which is composed of a fixed set of pixels. This format is designed for quick loading times without much loss of data (quality). This file type is appropriate for use where you need fast load times like a website, digital graphics where you need a transparent background, email signatures to keep email file sizes small, etc.

SVG

SVGs, or Scalable Vector Graphics, are images that use a system of fixed shapes with coordinates allowing the image to scale up and down without any distortion. This file type can be used on websites or even for stitching on apparel, cutting, or laser etching on objects. Certain mechanical applications translate an SVG logo file from a digital image to something a machine can turn into a physical shape.

PDF

This file type is most common for finished documents. PDF is short for “Portable Document Format” and it is the most common, readable file type for documents and some finished creative files like advertisements and menus. Most computers and smart phones can read this type of file without issue and it is standard across the business and creative world.

Knowing the basic file types will help you make the best choices for your business branding. Keep this guide handy for a refresher down the road and don't be afraid to reach out and ask questions.