File Types

File types can be broken down into two categories, vector and raster (or bitmap). The following information should be able to help you to discern what we are requesting from you.

Vector files

Vector graphics are resolution-independent -that is, they can be scaled to any size and printed at any resolution without losing detail or clarity. As a result, vector graphics are the best choice for type and bold graphics that must retain crisp lines when scaled to size. Vector graphics can be created using the following applications:

   •   Adobe Illustrator
   •   Adobe InDesign
   •   Adobe Acrobat
   •   Macromedia FreeHand (save as eps)
   •   Adobe Photoshop

Vector file extensions include, but are not limited to

   •   .ai - Adobe Illustrator
   •   .eps - encapsulated post script
   •   .pdf - portable document format

Bitmap images

Image-editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, generate bitmap or raster images.

Bitmap images are resolution dependant -that is, they represent a fixed number of pixels. As a result, they can appear jagged and lose detail if they are scaled on-screen or if they are printed at higher resolution than they were created for.

Bitmap image extensions include, but are not limited to

   •   .tif - tagged image file format (TIFF)
   •   .psd - Adobe Photoshop document
   •   .eps - encapsulated post script