VECTOR  VS RASTER (BITMAP) – WHAT IS VECTOR BASED GRAPHIC  AND WHY IT’S BEST TO HAVE YOUR LOGO/ CLUB CREST IN A VECTOR FORMAT

The difference between vector and raster graphics is that raster graphics are composed of pixels, while vector graphics are composed of paths- a series of nodes, lines, curves, and polygons containing mathematical data allowing it to be enlarged without quality loss. When your artwork or logo is in a vectored format), it allows you to increase or decrease the size of the graphic without compromising the integrity of the original image. The result is a crisp, clear, and readable image at various dimensions.

Rasters are used typically in photography and in online applications, while vector graphics are used in branding, logos, and icons. Logos are typically created in a vector-based application, like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDraw. Vector file format extensions include: .eps, .ai, .svg and .pdf.

Raster images are typically edited in software such as Adobe Photoshop. Vector file format extensions include: (but are not limited to): .jpg/.jpeg, .psd, .png, .tiff, .bmp and .gif.

When you resize raster graphics like JPEGs and GIFs they can appear pixelated (slightly blurred) when sized up or down since each pixel increases in size as the image is made larger. This is why logos and other designs are typically created in vector format.

Vector files such as AI and EPS also provide complete flexibility for manipulation of the image file.

A logo that is in a vector format can be easily edited– you can quickly change the colours or move its components around, place it on various backgrounds in a vector-based programs such as Adobe Illustrator. This is essential when we prepare artwork for your product!

Your company logo should always be created as a vector file so you can use it for print and promotional items and retain good quality image regardless of output and size.

WHERE DO I GET A VECTOR FORMAT LOGO?

Please ask the designer that created your logo for the vector files. If you work for a large company, ask the marketing or design department if they have vector files. If you can’t find a vector file you will need one created. Converting a rasterized image to a vector requires redrawing the logo through a series of precise line placements in a vector-based software. It’s time consuming therefore having your logo in a vector format will help to speed up the production process.

WHAT ARTWORK FILES WE ACCEPT

It is preferable that artwork be obtained in any of the following vector based graphic formats: 

Adobe Illustrator (.AI) – CS2

Encapsulated PostScript (.EPS) 

Corel Draw (.CDR) 

Adobe PDF (.PDF)