Printing Definitions: File Formats
1) Recommended File Formats
PDF (Portable Document Format) is the preferred format for printing because it is widely compatible with most programs. This format ensures the integrity and structure of your file, making it safe and easy to use. Additionally, PDFs support vector graphics, allowing for high-quality prints.
2) Usable File Formats (Conversion to PDF Required)
AI (Adobe Illustrator): AI files are popular with printers because they are vector-friendly and easy to edit. However, opening raw AI files can sometimes change the file's structure, so PDFs are usually a better option.
EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): EPS files, which can be created with programs like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW, are also vector-friendly and work well for printing.
Indd/Idml (Adobe InDesign): InDesign files are similar to AI files but are better for projects with many pages, like books, magazines, and catalogs. They are vector-friendly as well.
3) Usable, But Not Recommended
PSD (Adobe Photoshop): PSD files are widely used and customizable, but they are not vector-friendly and are not recommended for printing if your file contains text. Photoshop tends to pixelate both vectors and text, making them raster images, which can lower print quality. For best results, ensure your file is at 300 dpi.
TIFF (Tagged Image File Format): TIFF files are great for handling raster images, commonly used in professional photography. They are generally uneditable and are not vector files. However, with a resolution of 300 dpi, they can produce satisfactory print results.
JPEG/JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): JPEG files are primarily used for photos and are also raster files, making them uneditable. As long as their resolution is around 300 dpi, they can deliver good print quality.
PNG (Portable Network Graphics): PNG files are mainly used on the web and function like JPEGs, but they use RGB color mode. Since our printers use CMYK color mode, PNGs are less suitable for printing as the colors might not be accurate. JPEGs or TIFFs are better options.
4) Semi-usable Formats (Conversion to PDF Required)
Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint: These software programs can sometimes support vector graphics, but they are often challenging to customize for printing. Converting these files to PDF is highly recommended.
GIF, SVG, etc.: Formats like GIF and SVG are better suited for websites. While they can be used for printing, the quality may not be optimal but still acceptable.
Other Formats: There are many other file formats not mentioned here. They may or may not be suitable for printing, so please check compatibility beforehand.