File Types 101

Bitmaps or Raster images – are generated from programs such as Adobe Photoshop or Paintshop.

If the file is to be printed it should be saved at full size at 100dpi for best quality or depending upon the use of the bitmap it may be acceptable as low as 35dpi. The best format is an RGB colorspace tiff.

File types such as MS Publisher and InDesign are typically hard to convert to file types that our machines will accept and may require a conversion fee. If you have any questions- please call us.

Vector files – are generated from drawing programs such as Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw.

 If you are sending us computer files we prefer the Adobe Illustrator format (.ai) which is a vector format. You will want to save your file to an earlier version (for instance Version 8 for .ai) most software has this capability- usually called export or save as. You will also want to change any text to graphics (also called-outlines or curves) – otherwise if our computer does not  have the same font, called exactly the same name – it will not open correctly. It is also wise to include a Jpeg, PDF file or hard copy as to what the final file should look like. Sometimes elements may be missed or on the wrong layer when opened.

If you have any questions- please call us to discuss the file types that are acceptable and any possible conversion fees.