There are many types of file formats available. However, the
file formats for optimum printing results are EPS and TIFF.
Here are some typical file formats
and their definitions.
EPS - This stands for Encapsulated PostScript. This
is the most versatile and the preferred file format for composite
film separations. As a vector file format, it offers smooth,
clean lines. Saving files as an EPS is recommended when the
file is being RIPed to a PostScript device such as an imagesetter
or digital press.
TIFF - This stands for Tagged Image File Format and
is typically used for paint-type (bitmapped) images. TIFFs
can also be used for composite film separations, however, this
file format does not offer as many options as an EPS file.
These files take up less disk space but may not be recommended
for process color work. TIFFs require more space as the color
parameters of the job change, so watch
your file size.
JPEG - This stands for Joint Photographers Experimental
Group. This file format has built-in compression software that
allows you to choose how much to compress the file. This is
referred
to as a "lossy" file and at low resolution is not acceptable for printing. Be
aware that as the file compresses, it randomly throws out pixels resulting in
a loss of information. Over time the image will degrade, eventually becoming
unrecognizable.
GIF - This stands for Graphic Interchange Format. A
graphic format compression scheme created for online service
transfering of photographs. Because GIF images are limited
to 256 colors, their file sizes are very small. With the popularity
of the Web, this format has become the standard for online
display images.
PICT - Pict (short for "pict"ure) files are useful
for previewing high resolution art accurately in page layout
programs and for creating templates used as guides in drawing
programs. The quality, however, is
not adequate for final output.
BMP - Bitmap format native to Windows Paint. It can
accommodate a 24-bit image of various dimensions and resolutions.
BMP is a low resolution image not suitable
for printed output.
WMF - Windows Metafile is the standard for object oriented
files under Windows. It is designed predominantly to print
to non-PostScript printers and can only be edited in its native
file.
Tips for Saving Your Graphics Files:
- All graphics files should be saved in an EPS or a TIFF
format. This will provide
optimum results for printing.
- In Photoshop, EPS files should be saved with DCS (Desktop
Color Separation)
turned off and an 8 bit preview.
- Fonts used in EPS graphic files should be converted to
curves or outlines. Check
your software manual for instructions.
