The “L” Files: A Guide to Logo File Types
Logo file types can be confusing. When you receive your new logo files from Niche, your file package will contain multiple file-formats custom-designed for a variety of applications. Knowing when and where to use each file format is essential to its successful application.
To assist you as you begin to use your new logo files, the design team at Niche has created a quick reference guide to the common logo file formats with examples of how and when to use them in your marketing efforts.
EPS – Encapsulated PostScript
EPS is a graphic format for vector-based images in Adobe Illustrator and used for professional printing purposes. Because EPS files are a vector, they are scalable and able to be printed on very small areas like labels or stickers as well as very large spaces like billboards. EPS formats should have “outlined” fonts which allows a professional printer to open and use your logo file without having to have the original font installed on their computer.
What are the benefits of EPS files?
Use EPS files to put your logo on:
How do you open EPS files?
You can open .eps files with Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, but this process can be tricky and is not recommended for novices.
AI – Adobe Illustrator
AI is a graphic format for vector-based images in Adobe Illustrator and is also used for professional printing purposes. AI formats are similar to the EPS files with the exception that they have non-outlined fonts, meaning the text is editable, unlike an EPS file. This means that if you use this file format for print projects, the professional printer may ask you to provide the font files used.
What are the benefits of AI files?
Use AI files to put your logo on:
How do you open AI files?
You can open .eps files with Adobe Illustrator, but this process can be tricky and is not recommended for novices.
PNG – Portable Network Graphic
PNG logo files are is useful if you need your logo to be transparent for use as an overlay on colored backgrounds or on other images. This file type is not recommended for print projects.
What are the benefits of PNG files?
Use PNG files to put your logo on:
How do you open PNG files?
PNG files are commonly used and should be able to be opened and edited in most photo editing programs.
JPG or JPEG – Joint Photographic Experts Group
JPG or JPEG is a compressed image file format that can be used in print or web. The benefit of being able to compress the image file is that it can greatly reduce the overall size of the file, however the more compressed the file becomes, the more pixelated it will become. JPEG or JPG files do not support transparent backgrounds.
What are the benefits of JPG or JPEG files?
Use JPG or JPEG files to put your logo on:
How do you open JPG or JPEG files?
JPG and JPEG files are commonly used and should be able to be opened and edited in most photo editing programs.
Want to know more about graphics files? Check out these great guides:
Have questions about your logo files? Need help designing or updating your logo? Niche is happy to assist! Give us a call: 443-787-4951
