Types of Files
Using the correct file format for any given project is imperative to ensuring your image is at its highest standard. You wouldn’t print a screenshot taken on your phone as a large poster at 72 dpi, and you wouldn’t try to use a jpeg somewhere that requires transparency, would you? Would you? You may be wondering, what’s the big deal? That’s why we’re here to help you understand what you need to know.
Key Differences
There are many different file types for a wide variety for uses. For graphic design, most files types fit into two categories: Raster and Vector
Raster Images
Have you ever zoomed into a photo so much that it became ‘pixilated?’ That is because raster images are indeed made up of little squares of color, called pixels. Raster image files include jpeg, gif, and png. The resolution of an image is based on the ratio of pixels per inch of an image (also referred to as ppi). No matter what the resolution of an image is, it is impossible to use it larger than its original size without comprising the quality of an image. This is why it is important to create raster image files at the largest capacity in which it will be used.
Vector images
The benefit of using vector images is the ability to scale an image up and down without loosing quality. This is because a vectorized image uses a mathematical formula to create clean lines that will never blur. Vector image files include svg, eps, and pdf. The amount of data it takes to create detailed images makes them not recommended for vectorization, because it can result in long loading time, and software crashes. Additionally, it is very difficult to make vector art look photorealistic or hand drawn.
