A vector-based file of your logo is something that every business needs in their closet of branding tools. It’s perfect for all occasions! Vector logos work for all sizes and mediums. Whether your logo is being displayed on your website or on the largest jumbotron in Times Square, it will be will be clear, crisp, and clean. Whether you’re designing your own logo or having someone do it for you, be sure your project includes a vector version.
What are Vector Files?
Many logo designers use Adobe Illustrator or Corel Draw to create the vector logo. Designers create vector files using vector data, rather than pixels. You can often identify a vector file by the extension on the end of the file name. If the file is a vector, the logo will end in one of these extensions: .ai, .eps or .svg.
What are Raster Files?
Unlike vector files, raster files are made of pixel data. You can usually open and edit a raster file in programs such as Adobe Photoshop. Also unlike vector files, you cannot enlarge a raster file without compromising the image quality.
Raster files are typically much larger in file size than a vector file. You can usually identify a raster file by the extension on the end of the file name. If the file is a raster file, the logo will end in one of these extensions: .jpg, .png, .tif or .gif.
Most Raster Logos Began As Vector Files!
The majority of raster files started out as one of 3 things:
1) A photograph 2) A scanned image 3) A vector file (yep, that’s right)! Most logos are originally created as vector files because vector files are the industry standard for designing logos. Skilled logo designers will almost always design a logo in vector format.
Whether you are marketing a business, a non-profit, a personal brand, or anything else: you need a vector-based logo. As a 25-year veteran of the industry, I cannot stress that point enough. Business owners and managers are frequently asked for vector files. You can’t send a banner to a vendor, sign company, or T-shirt company a 3” x 3” 72 dpi .jpg file and expect to have great results. They will insist that you provide your logo in a vector file. Most vendors have in-house graphic departments and they may offer to recreate the logo for you for a fee. If they do, make sure you clarify whether or not you’ll be receiving a copy of the vector file at the close of the project.
