top of page
Writer's pictureSarah Bryce

Logo Design: Get the best quality!

Understanding the difference in quality from DIY versus Hiring a Pro.

Logo in raster format versus vector
















YOU NEED A LOGO!


Maybe you're new to the world of graphics and discussions of the digital world. You need a logo, but aren't sure you really need to hire a designer for this.


"What am I actually paying for when I use a professional?"


Q: Can't I create something myself with my own photograph, type-program or some "free" online logo maker? What's the difference?


A: The difference in logo quality is from the software it is created in and the file you receive from it.


VECTOR = BEST QUALITY OPTIONS


RASTOR= LOWER QUALITY OPTIONS



Using a Vector based program uses a mathematical formula (CLEAN LINES) that describes where points lie in relation to each other as well as the path between them.
a graphic showing the difference between clean vector and pixels

PROS ARE:

  • Resolution independent (can be scaled up infinitely and will always stay crisp)

  • Small file size (unless the vector is incredibly detailed)

  • Look sharp on both regular and high resolution displays

  • Can be easily converted to pixels when necessary


HOW: Vector created graphics are mostly created in ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR ( a design program through a subscription) and are drawings based on on line and points:



Adobe Illustrator program logo

a graphic showing the points in a illustrator pen tool
Vector graphics are resolution independent, meaning they can scale infinitely without losing their quality.

Coca Cola logo large on the side of a truck

Most large size logos you see today, such as you might see on a truck are = vector based.


The result is the ability to blow up very large with NO PIXELATED (blurry/chiseled) edge to the design but only CLEAN, STRAIGHT edges.


That same illustrator file (.ai ) can also be sized down and printed to look equally sharp on promotional products, apparel, stationary, etc... and look clean and crisp with no blurred edges.


Logos reduced tiny on the side of pens

From the original illustrator files (.ai) the designer can create all the necessary raster (pixel) files client may need. (Client will not use/or need the "art" file -nor will not be able to open files without the Adobe program.)


When you place a logo design order, you will receive:


WEB and PRINT FILES:


The Web Files you will receive are JPEG or PNG. And the Print Files you will receive are TIFF and PDF. (more about this below)


WARNING: Often logo maker or other free software and other non-design programs *only give you low resolution jpeg files. These raster files can look "pixelated". The also may be in a web color file mode (RGB) and not come in the print (CMYK) color mode you may need to get your logo printed. A logo "package" is from a designer can provide everything you need.


A graphic explaining the color modes in print versus screen

Web files and Print files use different color modes ( 3 part or 4 part).


graphic explaining pixels versus vector

Pixelization can appear as chiseled blocks or blurry and fuzzy edges versus clean and crisp.

a pixelated letter A and a vector

A pixel is a single point or the smallest single element in a display device. If you zoom in to a raster image you may start to see a lot of little tiny squares.

A "Pixel" is viewed as a tiny physical coloured square that is the smallest building block of raster images.


"RESOLUTION" is how many pixels is in an image.


How big and sharp an image is depends on the amount of pixels that build it. The higher their density of pixels, the sharper the image appears. Resolution refers to the detail of the image. Images with low resolution have less detail and images with high resolution have more details. Resolution is typically measured in pixels per inch (PPI) or dot per inch (DPI).



PRO BENEFITS: To receive the best and appropriate quality/ and or size file for the needed "output" a designer can guide you and provide proper files for specific uses so you don't end up using the wrong files.



WHAT THE CLIENT'S FILES ARE USED FOR:



YOUR WEBSITE: Your website needs JPEG or PNG files, that are 72 PPI and no more than 2000 pix wide for quicker screen loading. Digital files/for ex. marketing use, also can use 72-150 PPI and no more than 2000-3000 Pixels wide, for certain web/post/upload usage.


YOUR PRINTS: A client receives a PDF, as it is high resolution 300 DPI and shows transparency for multiple print uses, such as branding. And client also receives a TIFF file which is a large file with a lot of detail, great for print ( some printers require) with a background (non-transparent).



A graphic demonstrating pixel density dots per inch


When starting a business, it's a lot of work getting that logo and branding complete. Doing it properly through a professional will help so you will have the best quality design and delivery of the correct files for all uses. You will not have to back-track and one day, resigning properly and pay-over again in time and/or money!


READ NEXT:


Rive House logo design by Sarah Bryce Designs printed on a sign


Sarah Bryce Designs is a woman-owned small business & designer in the Bethany Beach area. Sarah specializes in marketing & design work in both digital and print. www.sarahbrycedesigns.com






bottom of page