How's It Done? >>> Art Requirements
We can not use all file formats. File extensions we most commonly use are:
.ai, .eps, .cdr, .pdf
If your file has a .tif, .ping, .psd, .jpg, .gif, or .bmp file extension, additional art
charges will apply.
We do not except .qxp or .ind file extensions.
Here at the LN Group, we only use vector graphics.
What is a Vector?
Rather than using a grid of pixels to create the image, vector files use a series
of points and join these points to create smooth lines and curves. Instead of pixels
to represent an image, a vector drawing application draws shapes which can be
independently manipulated. The objects are resolution-independent, meaning that
they can be resized and not loose any clarity.
Vector Zoom------------------------------------------------------------Bitmap Zoom
Notice the smooth clean lines in the vector art compared to the square pixels that don’t allow for straight clean lines in the bitmap art.
Vector Graphics can be easily colour separated, therefore in the spot-colour
printing industry, like at LN Group, we have to use vector graphics all the time.
For example, using a 2 colour logo consisting of green and pink, the two colours
can be separated, as if they were two separate images and then used to create
the necessary screens for printing onto garments.
What is a Bitmap?
Bitmaps are a collection of bits (pixels) that form an image, it is nothing more
than thousands (or millions) of pixels arranged to create an image. A logo in a
bitmap format is limited to its resolution - the larger the image increases the worse
it will look. When you stretch or resize a bitmap image you are increasing the
quantity of pixels, and as this happens the pixels just adopt randomly what colour
they will be based on the other pixels surrounding them.
Bitmap images CANNOT be printed in spot colour (one ink for each colour).
Each pixel is a solid colour and by placing them together you get an image
or shadow effect etc. When you print a logo that appears to be 2 colours but
is in bitmap format, you cannot separate the colours because what appears
to be a solid colour is actually thousands of square pixels in all different colours.
As you can see in the example the image consists
of hundreds of rows and columns of pixels. The
human eye is not capable of seeing each individual
pixel so we perceive a picture with smooth gradations.
Trying to separate each of these pixels would result in
an image of over 1000 colours.
Once an image is a bitmap it can never be a vector.
Where Can I Get the Files?
The logo design company that originally developed your logo would be the first
place to contact if you are unable to locate the files in your office. If your company
has previously had any promotional items printed, this would include any business
cards, letterhead etc, then an .eps file is available from the stationary printer or
the Promotional and Incentive supplier that has previously done work for you.
You will want to ask for vector files that have been saved in the following file
extensions; .eps, .ai, .cdr, or .pdf.
If you are unable to obtain a vector file our art department will need to remake it
in a vector format. In this case some art charges will apply.