When you’re working digitally, there are two kinds of image file types: raster and vector. Both image types may be saved with several different file extensions. It’s important to understand when to use each image type and the best file extension for particular situations.
Vector files are images that are built by mathematical formulas that establish points on a grid. Raster files are composed of the colored blocks commonly referred to as pixels. Because they can infinitely adjust in size without losing resolution, vector files are more versatile for certain types of tasks than raster files. The most common types of vector files are:
- .ai: Short for Adobe Illustrator, this file is commonly used in print media and digital graphics, such as logos.
- .eps: Encapsulated PostScript is an older type of vector graphics file. .eps files don’t support transparency in the way more modern file formats like .ai do.
- .pdf: The Portable Document Format is built for the exchange of documents across platforms and is editable in Adobe Acrobat.
- .svg: The Scalable Vector Graphics format is based in XML (a markup language used widely across the Internet that's readable by both machines and humans). It’s useful for the web, where it can be indexed, searched, and scripted.
Here are a list of some products that may require vector artwork in order to have the best quality print:
- Banners or signs
- Vehicle wraps
- Small projects like labels or fine print
- Promotional Products
- T-shirt or Silk screened products