Graphic Art Requirements for Large-Format Printing
            
Although by appearance graphic images may look the same, the file that they are created in can be very different. Different files for different applications, so to speak. 

Sometimes when we request an art file, we will receive a small art file that was copied from the internet or the client's website. Because of the lack of information within this file, these files will not produce the results needed and will cause severe pixelization.

All company logos and graphics are created by an Author. The Author uses specialized software to initially design the graphic where it is saved in the native format of the software. It is in this format that it can be edited, saved then re-edited into a different file format to be used in other applications, like web design, magazine printing, textile printing and large-format printing. It is usually this native file that is required by us to create your imagery.

Please consult with your company's Media / Art department / Ad agency or our Graphics Center at 504 378-4340. Images can be emailed to us, uploaded onto our ftp site and sent via mail or FedEx.

Raster Images and Vector Images

There are 2 basic types images used in the computer world. All file types fall into one of these two categories, Raster or Vector.

Raster is an image that is created by using dots of color to create the desired image. If the image is created very large and the image is reduced for printing or viewing, the image appears more sharp to the eye. If it is created small and it is enlarged for printing or viewing, the image appears dull, washed out and pixelated. Digital cameras take raster images, i.e. JPG, RAW, TIFF. Digital Photos are raster images. The larger the file, the more information it holds to enlarge you image without as much degeneration.

Vector is an image that uses lines with closed colored shapes to create the desired image. A line can be enlarged and it is still a line, with clean, sharp edges. FONTS (typed text) are usually in vector format. It is this format that we recommend and prefer for all text as well as logos and graphics, if possible. Images created in Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw are the most common types of software used for vector graphics.

The best of both Worlds - Combing Raster and Vector

It is not uncommon for the Author to create a final image by combining multiple raster and vector file together to create the best possible final image for their client. Imagine a beautiful scenic background with crisp, easy-to-read content on a 16' tall by 40' wide banner! The impression it makes doesn't get any better!

Fonts        
A Font is another name for Typeface. Fonts are contained in a font folder in your computer and are used in all of your computer programs where typing is one of the functions. You'll notice a wide variety, each exhibiting their own unique style. Choosing the right font helps convey the "feeling" of your message.

The chance that 2 people have the same fonts are slim and none. If we are to edit in any way, please include your font file with your artwork. If not, convert all fonts to shapes are outline.

MAC Art Files        
Royal Graphics Center uses PC-based art software. All MAC art files sent to us must be exported so a PC can open and read them. Fonts must convert fonts to paths.   

Acceptable PC Art files        

Vector Art files saved from their native program:

                 
MAC Art Files        

We currently do not use MAC. All MAC art files must be exported so a PC can open them. You must convert fonts to paths.       
            
Acceptable Art containing Photography  

Not Acceptable for Large-Format Printing

These art files are low-resolution images and do not contain enough data to accurately reproduce at a larger scale.

Any art being used for internet, greeting cards software.

If this is the only type art you possess, it may be possible for our Graphics Center to create a Working File. Please ask your Account Executive.          
            
Not sure?

If you are not sure what type of file you have and you are on a PC, you may do the following:       

• Highlight the file by right-clicking, click on PROPERTIES, will show you what type of file.
• Or, open the file, using the zoom tool, zoom in 200-500%. If the art appears pixilated or "jaggy", the art is not usable or editable.         
  

COLOR                 

• All color is direct-to-print from your art file unless otherwise noted.
• If you prefer a close color-match, please use the universally-used PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM (PMS) to assign the number to each color you prefer to be matched.
• Provide us with a hard copy in color you wish us to color match.Color-Matching can be time-consuming. Please allow additional time to meet your need.           
  

PRINT OUTPUT         

Signs         
Our continuous run print output for signage is up to 4' tall x 24' wide @ 600 dots per inch (DPI)
            
Banners         
Our continuous run print output for banners is up to 16' tall x 50' wide up to 600 dots per inch (DPI)
                     
LAMINATION

All of our graphics are laminated to insure protection from fingerprints, smudges or moisture on print surface. It is not necessary to laminate a banner.