 With all of the image options and file formats out there, it can be a little overwhelming when you are choosing what file type to use. Compatibility is always a concern when you are working with different file types, but when it comes to graphics and images the type of computer graphic format you use is essential to how the image renders. There are two types of digital graphics files – vector and raster. Vector images are made of lines and curves (or paths) to create an image. Raster images are composed of pixels. But how do you know what format is best? VECTOR FILES: Vector images, which are made of thin lines and curves known as paths, are rooted in mathematical theory. You may be able to identify a vector image by looking at its edges — a vector image will always appear smooth no matter how large you make it or how close you zoom in. Text is one of the most common types of vector image. No matter how much you increase a font’s size, for example, its look never changes. The most common problem with using vector images is compatibility. Vector images are often saved as native files from the program used to create the image (such as Adobe Illustrator), which may not be available to you to open the file. As designers, we prefer this file type when we are creating signage, logos, business cards + more. File types include: .Ai (Adobe Illustrator), .eps (Encapsulated PostScript), .svf (Simple Vector Format). RASTER FILES: Raster images are often called bitmap images because they are made of millions of tiny squares, called pixels. You can identify a raster or bitmap image by looking at it very closely. If you zoom in enough, you will be able to see the square outlines of each pixel (especially around edges where there are dramatic colour contrasts). Almost all of the images you find on websites are raster images, even those that may have originally been created with paths. Raster images are typically acceptable for digital publication but may not work well in printed projects. Often these files are saved as low resolution and are not suitable for print reproduction. File types include: .jpg (JPEG raster format), .gif (GIF transparent file), .png (Portanble Network Graphic Transparent file), .tiff or .tif (Tag Interleave Format) If you are confused to what file type to use, feel free to send them through to us and we will be able to tell you which file will be best suited for your requirements. Big brands get all the limelight, have the biggest budgets, and crush little brands every day. That’s probably what you tell yourself anyways. The truth is, the little guy isn’t always so little! Sure, you may not be on the international playing level. Heck, you may not even ship out of your region, but that doesn’t mean you’re just the little kid on the block.
As a smaller player, you can learn a lot about your business, strategy, brand, and customer service simply by observing what the big brands are doing. And we don't mean you should steal everything they do and try it out yourself. Sometimes it means taking what they do and making it work for you. But, it also means seeing what they aren’t doing or doing wrong and then doing that yourself. The bigger guys are more than likely alienating key demographics. You have the opportunity to swoop in, get their attention, and gain new customers. Here are a few take aways you can learn from big guys:
"What are brand guidelines?" I hear you say...
Brand guidelines are a set of tools and rules on how to use your branding elements. These guidelines are used by yourself, designers, writers, staff and anyone else using your brand’s elements like your logo to create marketing materials or social media content. Here at Seeka Creative our brand guidelines are usually created on a one-page document (depending on scale of business). The guidelines covers how your brand works and how the different elements of your brand work together to form your brand identity. As no two brands are exactly the same, the elements included in your brand guidelines may not look the same as another companies brand’s guidelines. However, there are three common elements included in every brand identity guideline document:
While those three elements are included in almost every set of brand guidelines, there are other elements that can also be included:
Brand guidelines should really be used as a tool to keep your brand consistent. Whether your business is large or small, brand guidelines are critical to helping your brand to work effectively. Without these guidelines, your brand’s message can change at any point just because a logo was used improperly or because someone didn’t know to use blue instead of hot pink (uh oh!). Brand guidelines are created after establishing a colour palette, logo, brand voice, and all of your other brand elements. If you are starting to build your business and brand, then it’s a perfect time to have your branding by Seeka Creative done and your guidelines created. Email us for more information on how we can help your business! Branding is important. That’s logical. But did you know certain things could be losing you potential business? Here are 3 things that could be destroying your brand and what you can do to resolve the problem:
How is your branding? Do you need to make some changes? We’d love to help! We focus on your strengths and use our expertise to create something that will help your business grow and give you confidence in your brand. Talk to us about our brand packages. |
AuthorWe're driven to help clients create messages that bring unique visibility and distinction to their brands and companies. Read our blog posts for helpful tips & tricks that you can use in your business. Archives
October 2018
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AMY KOUWENHOVEN
amy@seekacreative.co.nz |
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