Logo files for print and digital

Yes, you have a logo, but do you know which file type to use for digital and print platforms?

It is important to have several file types of your logo. But if you have only one, it better be a vector. All other file types can be produced from this. The vector file is scalable and that is why it’s so important to have. If you need to embroider hats or produce large scale signage such as a billboard this file will not deteriorate as it scales in size. It typically is produced in Adobe Illustrator and may have one of these file tags at the end: ai, eps or pdf. Your printer or designer will be able to tell you once they open it in a vector based program.

I recommend once you have identified the vector logo that you name the file with vector in the name such as OrganizationLogoVector.PDF. Having it as a PDF will enable you to view it without the native program, so ask your service provider to save the logo as a PDF and have all the fonts converted to outlines. This will ensure there are no font problems when opened in the native program.

Your vector file is great for printing, but what about email, web, and Word?

A jpg is useful for those, as well as, gif and png. Again your webmaster can convert the vector based file, but for your everyday use, keep a jpg on hand.

In addition to color, you’ll also want the logo in black, and a white or “knockout” version with a transparent background so it can be placed on photos or colored backgrounds. The vector file usually has a transparent background, but for digital, a transparent background usually has a gif or png tag. JPG’s are not transparent.

The checkerboard background shows that the logo has a transparency.

Anything else I should know?

Yes, there are many times when your logo has to fit into a square on the social platforms, if you have a wide typeset logo having another version is helpful. It’s also nice to have a favicon. A faviWHAT? That is the small icon you typically see next to your url in the browser.

In the example below, my logo is typeset in one line. I created a stacked version for times when it needs to be more compact. I also created the favicon above, the small icon can be very useful on your social platforms. The logo keeps the same font and color, so it easily represents the brand in a consistent way. If you only have the one logo, it would be best to let a professional pull together the various file types and versions with quickly identifiable file names. Once you have them, you’ll be able to confidently utilize them.

Welcome!

Hi, I’m Jeanine, I produce attention-grabbing designs for non-profits that resonate with your donors. Whether you need a direct mail appeal package or collateral materials for a virtual event or gala, my personalized service helps solve your design challenges. Contact me to discuss your next design project.