Have you ever tried to increase the size your logo, only to end up with a ridiculously blurry, less-than-professional result? You certainly don’t want that on your banner or flyer. So where did you go wrong? If the file you are working with is anything but an EPS file then you found your problem.
What is an EPS file?
In literal terms, EPS stands for Encapsulated PostScript, and it is a vector graphic. Basically, instead of storing your logo as one image, it stores it as a mathematical equation made up of lines, curves, and joints that create different geometric shapes. In simpler words, every detail of your logo is saved separately and then combined with all of the other elements of your logo when you open the EPS file.
Why is EPS so important?
Now that you understand what an EPS file is, you are probably wondering why it’s so important for you to have an EPS version of your logo on hand. Here’s why:
- It is editable. If you ever want to change a part of your logo, you will be able to do it easily with an EPS file because each and every detail is its own entity. However, if you only have your logo saved as a JPEG, the person trying to edit it (like us, for example) will have to start from scratch.
- It is resizable. Whether you want to enlarge or shrink your logo, an EPS file will allow you to do so without compromising the quality. On the contrary, a JPEG is made out of pixels, and once you save the image, that is the size it is. If you try to increase the size, it will become blurry and, if you keep going, it will eventually be unrecognizable.
- It is compatible. It doesn’t matter what software program the person who is working with your logo is using, an EPS file will be compatible with it. EPS files can even be used on MS Word and the older systems some sign printers use.
So there is no other file type that will work?
EPS is the most universal, but there are a few other file types that are resizable and editable if the correct software is being used. The most popular is Adobe Illustrator. As long as both the creator and the editor are using Adobe Illustrator, this file type will work because it is still a vector image. Editable PDF files are also increasing in popularity. But if you want to be safe, and ensure your logo is compatible with even older software systems, EPS is the only way to go.
