FE FI FO...File Format?

Hi all. I apologize for the delay in posts, I've been dealing with a dance performance and a lingering sickness the past two weeks. But, I am just starting to feel like I'm back into the regular routine today and I wanted to be sure to get a new post up.

I've compiled a list and brief description of the file formats most commonly used for graphic designers. I often provide clients a disk of their logos in various file formats for future usage. However, there is often confusion as to which file should be used where and how and when. Hence, the Kalico Design File Format Tips list:

1. eps
Encapsulated PostScript File. This is a vector-based file. You may not be able to open this file, as it is intended for a designer or printer’s usage. However, you may be able to place this file format in an image box when using a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word. To be used on promotional materials such as t-shirts, signs or brochures, if sending off to a printer.

2. jpg
Joint Photographic Electronic Group. A common compression method that shrinks a file’s storage size by discarding non-important picture detail. You should be able to open a jpg file and/or place it in an image box when using a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word. To be used on any printed material, especially anything printed in-house.

JPGs are commonly also used for web graphics. Please check the resolution and file size in order to determine your particular jpg's intended usage. You will not want to use a web jpg on a printed piece as the file was scaled down and optimized for web-usage, so it will not print clearly. When in doubt, feel free to ask your graphic designer whether your jpg file is safe for printing or not.

3. tif
Tagged Image File Format. A common graphic file format used for saving bitmapped images such as scans, photographs, illustrations and logos. You should be able to open a tif file and/or place it in an image box when using a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word. To be used on any printed material.

4. pdf
Portable Document Format. This file is a self-contained cross-platform document. In plain language, it is a file that will look the same on the screen and in print, regardless of what kind of computer or printer someone is using and regardless of what software package was originally used to create it. You should be able to open a pdf file, and use it on mostly all printed materials, provided the pdf was distilled correctly.

5. gif
Graphics Interchange Format. GIF images display up to 256 colors. GIF images generally have very small file sizes and are the most widely used graphic format on the web. The low quality resulting from compression makes them unsuitable for professional printing. Kalico Design provides gif files that are ideal for web usage, and will have a translucent background. DO NOT USE THE GIF FILE FOR PRINTING! It has been optimized for web-usage, and the file size has been scaled down, so it will not print clearly.

While there are several more file formats used in graphic design and printing, these are the most common and basic. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions regarding a particular file format or to see if your file is safe for print or web usage.