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image manipulation programs, and in different file platforms. The software applications used to develop them produce data files with extensions, such as .gif, .eps, .jpg, .psd, and others. For the function of this dialogue, it’s useful to categorize graphics depending on whether they’re created in vector or raster format.

Vector graphics are comprised of sizes and shapes which are mathematically defined. Raster images are comprised of pixels on a grid. While both provide value in specific circumstances, corporate trademarks should be created in vector formatting; this is particularly the case if the company logo is likely to be reproduced on a variety of media, or in different sizes.

This article is going to concentrate on the usage of vector and raster images in the framework of different color schemes. We will first look at four color process, and then move on to spot color, grayscale, and black and white.

Raster And Vector Images For The Four-Color Process

Four color process can also be known as CMYK, an abbreviation mirroring the four base colors from which others are produced. (Those colors are cyan, magenta, yellow, black.. It is appropriate for conventional printing demands, for example signage, stationary, and color magazines. It is less appropriate for black and white reproduction, or for images that will be used exclusively on the internet.

Vector graphics are well-suited for traditional publishing simply because they can be scaled down without having to sacrifice image quality. Logos in this format are generally developed in Adobe Illustrator, where they have an .ai extension. Or else, .eps can be used.

Raster-centered logos can also be designed with four color procedure, but doing so is much less useful. The graphics cannot be made bigger without enduring degradation; that said, if you intend to utilize a raster-based logo design on pamphlets, business cards, and other published collateral, four color process may be required.

Vector Images For Spot Color Designs

Spot color printing is less expensive than four color printing. This aspect on its own can make it an attractive option for small company owners who need their trademarks printed on a variety of media. It calls for vector graphics, which make a smooth fit since the graphics can be scaled down with no loss in resolution.

For raster graphics, a two color procedure is much more appropriate. It’s worth observing that the term is a misnomer because the procedure requires a lot more than two colors. As implied previously, the biggest obstacle with pixel-based graphics is degradation when logos are scaled up in size.

Raster And Vector Imaging For Black And White Designs

Black and white logos are those that are made up of shades between black and white. Here, printing quality is dependent almost completely on the file format of the company logo; in most cases, vector images are much more ideal than raster images for traditional publishing (for reasons pointed out earlier).

Pixel-based trademarks in grayscale can be useful for black and white printing in specific capacities. An instance may include publishing your artwork on free gift items, such as pens, timepieces, and staplers. Even here, however, vector graphics are preferable because the tones are delivered more smoothly.

Selecting A File Format Based On Intended Use

Most company logos are published on multiple media in various sizes. Given this, vector graphics are a better option than raster images. Whether your logo is printed on envelopes, posters, custom bumper stickers, or splashed across advertisements, you can expect the image quality to stay consistent. Alternatively, if you only intend to use your logo on your site or in Flash animations, a raster graphic ought to be sufficient.

Pixel-based graphics could also be fine for printing documents that will only rotate within your company. For instance, internal memorandums or a organization publication might not demand a higher level of quality; nor will they demand a significantly-enlarged graphic. Besides internal documentation and artwork intended for use on websites, a vector-based company logo can much better cater to almost all company needs.