Why Artwork File Type Matters for Promotional Printing

When branding promotional products, using the right artwork file format is essential to achieving a sharp, professional finish. Different formats serve different purposes—some are great for digital use, while others are ideal for high-quality printing.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔️ The difference between raster and vector files
✔️ Which formats work best for printing
✔️ When to use RAW files and how they fit into the design process
✔️ How to prepare and submit artwork for the best results

1️⃣ Raster vs. Vector vs. RAW: Understanding the Basics

FeatureRaster Files (JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, BMP)Vector Files (AI, EPS, SVG, PDF)RAW Files (CR2, NEF, ARW, DNG, RAF)
CompositionMade of pixelsMade of mathematical pathsUnprocessed image data
ScalabilityLoses quality when enlargedInfinite scalabilityHigh flexibility for editing
Best ForPhotos & web imagesLogos, text, scalable designsProfessional photography
File SizeCan be large (especially TIFF)Generally smallVery large
TransparencySupported in PNG & GIFSupported in SVG, AI, EPSNo (must be edited)
EditabilityLimited (lossy formats degrade)Fully editableRequires processing in Photoshop/Lightroom

Now, let’s dive deeper into each artwork file type type.

2️⃣ What are Raster Image Files?

🖼️ What is a Raster File?

A raster image (also known as a bitmap) is composed of a fixed grid of pixels. Each pixel contains colour information, and together they create detailed images.

🔍 How Do Raster Files Work?

  • Raster files are resolution-dependent, meaning scaling them up causes pixelation (blurriness).
  • They store complex colour information, making them ideal for photographs and detailed images.
  • The resolution is measured in dots per inch (DPI) or pixels per inch (PPI). For printing, 300 DPI is recommended.

📂 Common Raster File Formats & When to Use Them

✔️ JPEG (JPG) – Compressed format, best for photos & web images. Not ideal for printing logos.
✔️ PNG – Supports transparency, perfect for digital use.
✔️ GIF – Limited colour range, used for simple animations.
✔️ TIFF – High-quality, used for photography and publishing.
✔️ BMP – Uncompressed, high file size, rarely used today.

🎯 Best Uses for Raster Files

✔️ Photographs – Ideal for detailed images in promotional material.
✔️ Web Graphics – Social media posts, website banners, email marketing.
✔️ Detailed Gradients & Shadows – Complex shading in images.

⚠️ Limitations of Raster Files

  • Cannot be scaled up without losing quality.
  • Large file sizes (especially TIFF and BMP).
  • Not suitable for logos or text-based artwork that needs to be resized.

🔹 If you’re sending artwork for branding, we recommend vector files instead of raster files for best results.

3️⃣ What are Vector Files?

📐 What is a Vector File?

Unlike raster files, vector graphics use mathematical formulas to define lines, curves, and shapes. This makes them scalable without losing quality.

🚀 Why are Vector Files Best for Printing?

✔️ Infinitely scalable – Whether printed on a pen or a billboard, they stay sharp.
✔️ Smaller file sizes – Compared to high-res raster images.
✔️ Easily editable – Colours, fonts, and shapes can be adjusted without loss of quality.

📂 Common Vector File Formats & When to Use Them

✔️ AI (Adobe Illustrator) – Preferred format for logo design & promotional branding.
✔️ EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) – Best for large-scale printing (banners, signage).
✔️ SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) – Ideal for web-based logos and digital use.
✔️ PDF (Portable Document Format) – Often used for printing artwork submissions.

🎯 Best Uses for Vector Files

✔️ Logos & Branding – Ensures clarity on all promotional products.
✔️ Illustrations & Icons – Used for signage, stickers, and custom shapes.
✔️ Typography-Based Artwork – Keeps text crisp when printed on promotional products.

⚠️ Limitations of Vector Files

  • Not ideal for detailed photography (vectors cannot capture photo realism).
  • Not supported by all software (must be opened in Illustrator or a similar program).

🔹 For branding on promotional products, vector files are preferred because they ensure sharp, high-quality prints.

4️⃣ What are RAW Files?

📷 What is a RAW File?

A RAW file is an unprocessed image captured directly from a camera’s sensor. Unlike JPEG or PNG, RAW files retain all image data, making them highly flexible for editing.

📂 Common RAW File Formats

✔️ CR2, NEF, ARW, DNG, RAF – These vary depending on the camera brand.

🎯 Best Uses for RAW Files

✔️ Professional Photography – Captures full dynamic range for post-processing.
✔️ Graphic Design Projects – When extensive editing is required before conversion to vector or raster.

⚠️ Limitations of RAW Files

  • Very large file sizes.
  • Requires software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom for editing.
  • Not used for final print or branding—must be converted first.

🔹 For printing, RAW files should be converted to vector (AI, EPS, PDF) or high-resolution raster (TIFF, PNG, JPEG 300 DPI) before submission.

5️⃣ How to Submit Your Artwork for Promotional Printing

✔️ Use Vector Files – AI, EPS, PDF preferred.
✔️ Convert Text to Outlines – Ensures fonts display correctly.
✔️ Check Colour Mode – CMYK for printing, RGB for web use.
✔️ Provide Pantone (PMS) Colours – For colour accuracy.
✔️ Ensure High Resolution – 300 DPI minimum for raster images.

📩 Submit your artwork via email or upload it directly when ordering. Need help? Our design team can assist with file conversions!

Need Help? Contact Us!

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