What file type should you use?

You come across various file formats(image extensions) like JPEG, JPG, PNG, RAW while working with graphic designs. Selecting the right file type for your design can be a difficult task. But when you understand different file types and learn how to export in JPG, EPS, AI, SVG, etc, you will witness rapid improvement in your graphic-designing skills. Expand your knowledge with this comprehensive file type comparison.

Understanding Image Types

Image files can be categorized into two segments: Raster and Vector.

Raster images are constructed by assigning a shade to each pixel. You can observe the image getting distorted when you magnify it. Common examples of raster files are JPG, PNG, GIF. Vector image relates different segments of your design using mathematical relations. That’s why vector graphic images don’t appear distorted at any magnification. Vector image gives you the edge while creating logos, posters, brand graphics, where you need sharp lines. AI and EPS are popular examples of vector image files. However, many spectacular photos that we admire on our social media accounts, use vibrant color gradients. Raster-based images are perfect for them.

Let us try to understand different image file formats. We will also learn how to export in JPG, PDF, AI, SVG, and many similar file formats. You will find it easy to understand file types based on classification into raster and vector images.

File Type Comparison

Raster Image File Types

JPEG/JPG(Joint Photographic Experts Group)

JPEG images are the most common raster image format. JPEG employs “Lossy compression”, which means few details of the image are lost after each compression. However, an unparalleled advantage of JPEG/JPG files is its image compression capability. This type of file will not support a transparent background. We will learn further how to export in JPG and other raster file formats.

PNG(Portable Network Graphics)

The PNG format conserves image data due to its lossless compression technique. Hence, you would want to store your image in PNG format while editing. PNG provides a wider color palette and various color transparency levels ideal to make logos and illustrations on the web page. However, too many details in PNG files can slow your website. Therefore, you need to balance the image quality to suit your website’s needs.

Vector Image File Types

EPS(Encapsulated Postscript):

EPS uses postscript page description language. This enables transmitting page layout across devices like printers and designing software. EPS, once very popular, has become obsolete due to versatile file formats like PDF and SVG. However, when you don’t know the software being used at the receiver’s end, sharing an EPS file is a safe option.

SVG(Scalable Vector Graphics)

SVG is an XML-based 2-D vector image format that is developed by the World Wide Web consortium. You can search, index, script, and compress the SVG files as they are defined in XML text files. They can be animated and programmed as well making SVG an ideal choice for all web-based applications. You can either use a text editor or an image editor to make changes to your SVG files. Learn more about SVG at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scalable_Vector_Graphics.

AI(Adobe Illustrator)

Abode Illustrator is the most preferred vector graphic image fileYou can perform a stellar range of operations on a file format native to Adobe Illustrator. Not only the function but also the huge exporting and importing capabilities of Adobe software makes them indispensable for all levels of graphic designers.

PDF(Portable Document Format): A Special Mention

You can save and transmit raster, vector, and text image files with PDF. Password-protected files, digital signature enabling, and compression are a few of many features that make PDF files analogous to your digital notes. Hence, PDF files are easy to share through e-communication channels, and they cater to print media requirements well. Such versatility earns PDF a separate mention in this list and no wonder the world revolves around PDF these days. Find out more about PDF at https://helpx.adobe.com/support.cc.html.

How to export in JPG, EPS, AI, SVG, PDF, and PNG files

Popular vector graphic designing software like Illustrator and Inkscape can support almost all forms of file types for saving, exporting, and opening. Follow the link for more information on file types supported by:

Illustrator: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/kb/supported-file-formats-illustrator.html

Inkscape: https://wiki.inkscape.org/wiki/index.php/File_types

At this point, it would be noteworthy to mention that saving renders the changes in a file format native to the software. Exporting, on the other hand, renders the changes so that it can be worked in other applications as well. Some software/applications provide an export option via the “SAVE AS” command.

Applications like Photoshop work with raster images only and hence cannot open vector graphics files. However, common raster image formats like JPG/JPEG, PNG, RAW, PDF, can be opened and edited in a majority of photo editing software.

Note: Re-define the raster images manually after importing them to vector graphic software. Default conversion by the software might include errors due to resolution change.

We know how much you love designing. That’s why we try to provide with you the most comprehensive yet easy-to-understand explanations and information. Have fun designing and create something incredible, and know that you are choosing the correct file type for your application!

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