Logo

Logos

If your company already has a logo, the first step is to ensure you have it in the correct formats for different uses.

Vector Files – The Master Source

The most important format to secure is a vector file. Vector graphics are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled infinitely without losing quality — essential for professional printing, large signage, or billboards.

Common vector formats include:

  • .AI (Adobe Illustrator): The original working file. These files are layered with editable paths (shapes, text, strokes) that can be adjusted, recoloured, or restructured by a designer. The AI file is your true master source file.
  • .PDF: Provided the vector data is preserved and not flattened, many printers will accept this format directly.
  • .SVG: Widely used for web and app design because it scales cleanly on screens and can be manipulated via code (e.g., CSS colour changes). SVGs are not typically ideal for print workflows because they lack the same editing capabilities as AI files.

Why it matters: Printers, designers, and merchandisers will always ask for vector files for high-quality outputs. Large-scale applications like banners, billboards, or vehicle wraps require vectors to maintain crispness.

Raster Files – For Day-to-Day Digital Use

For everyday digital design, such as Canva projects or social media posts, a PNG with a transparent background is usually sufficient.

  • Recommended size: ~1000 × 1000 pixels, which also works for small-scale print (brochures, multi-page documents, or small posters).
  • Export this version from Illustrator on a 1000×1000px artboard as PNG with transparency.

Logo Variations

It’s important to have different versions of your logo prepared:

  • Full-colour version (standard)
  • Black version (for light backgrounds)
  • White/inverse version (for dark backgrounds)

Vector vs Raster – Key Differences

  • Vector files (.AI, PDF with vectors, SVG) are made of mathematical paths and shapes. They can be scaled without losing quality and are fully editable.
  • Raster files (.PNG, JPG, TIFF) are made of pixels. Enlarging them beyond their original size causes blurriness or pixelation.

Think of vector as flexible and editable, and raster as fixed and resolution-dependent.

Important: The vector file is your master source. If you only have a PNG or JPG and the vector is lost, a designer will need to redraw it. Simple logos may be straightforward to recreate, but complex logos with layers and gradients can take more time.

If you don’t have access to Adobe Illustrator or similar software, request vector files directly from your logo designer. If missing, you can hire a designer (e.g., via Upwork) to supply the correct formats.

Minimum Logo File Set You Should Have

  • Vector file (.AI, PDF with vectors)
  • PNG with transparent background
  • Black PNG on transparent background
  • White (inverse) PNG on transparent background