For my third blog installment on graphic formats, I will go over raster graphics. Have you ever noticed when you zoom into an image or try to make one bigger that it gets grainy or pixelated or when you print some images they print blurrier than they appear on your screen?   That is because these images are raster graphics and are a set size based on the number of pixels it contains and how dense those pixels are on a grid.   Typically, the size is measured in dots per inch (DPI) or pixels per inch (PPI), which are essentially the same thing.   As I discussed in Part I of this series, 72 DPI is typically referred to as a low-resolution image and is more commonly used in digital/web formats.  72 DPI images do not work well in print formats.  Instead 300 DPI resolution is best for print and is considered high resolution.  Therefore, pulling images off the internet or using your snipping tool is not sufficient for quality, professional-looking print ...

As I explained in my last post , vector images are created mathematically by using formulas to create an image that can be enlarged or reduced with no loss of image quality.   The picture shown illustrates a vector graphic.  Even when enlarged, the image keeps smooth edges.  I also explained that y our logo should be initially created as a vector image, and you should have a copy of the original file even if you cannot open it.   The programs to create vector files, such as Adobe Illustrator, may not be available to you, but at some point you may need to make a change to the file, and most designers can use this file to make those changes.   Common vector file formats and their uses include the following: ·         AI (Adobe Illustrator) – This is the software that most graphic designers use to create your design or illustration (as the name would suggest). This design tool is the easiest to manipulate (should you kno...

In my previous post on working with a graphic designer to develop your logo , I mentioned that you should know what the different image file formats are.   Have you ever wondered what the heck the different image file formats mean?   When do you use which version?     In my next few blog posts, I will go over some image file basics, but I will start with the differences between Vector and Raster graphics. Vector Graphics Vector images are created mathematically by using formulas to create an image that can be enlarged or reduced without loss of image quality.  Your logo should be initially created as a vector image, and you should have a copy of the original file even if you cannot open it.   The programs to create vector files, such as Adobe Illustrator, may not be available to you, but at some point you may need to make a change to the file, and most designers can use this file to make those changes.   The file shown here repres...