JPEG, PNG, and EPS - What to Use & Why

When you are designing a logo for someone, or are having a logo designed by someone, you should always ask that you get it in the following formats: JPEG, PNG, EPS/AI. Each one serves a different purpose, and it's handy to have them all at your fingertips. 

Recently I had a client contact me because they were confused which format to use, so I put together this brief post to clear things up. 

Here's a breakdown of 3 different file types 

and what they're used for: 

Photo-Kiosk Designers - An Epidemic (But there's a cure!)

I've noticed a new type of graphic designer emerging from the depths of the internet the last two years. They're hard to spot at first, since they talk-the-talk, but when you see their files, you immediately know what they are... they're a Photo-Kiosk designer.

Etsy is FILLED with them. The Photo-Kiosk designer is someone with a computer and access to an image editing program (usually Photoshop), who decided to strike out and make a little side business for themselves designing invitations and party favors for people online. (It's ALWAYS invitations and party favors.)

As a graphic designer and digital printer who also sells on Etsy, I appreciate their work ethic and their effort to pull in extra income, and I'm all for people pursuing art and design, but...to put it simply...YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING!

So I made this post to help and educate Photo-Kiosk printers on why commercial printers (like me) hate your files and how you can fix them.

What is a BLEED - Printing Terminology for Non-Printers

"Your file needs a BLEED." 

Not a day goes by where I don't have to explain this concept. I mean it. Every. Single. Day.

To be fair, it's not a term that's really used out in there the "real world." It's an art and creation specific concept, so the average person doesn't need to know. But, with more and more people attempting to be their own graphic and print designer (in an attempt to cut costs even though it usually ends up being a complete nightmare) it's something I thought I would tackle here on the blog. 

This way you guys can learn a little something, and I'll have a place to copy and paste responses instead of ripping my hair out. 

So, what is a BLEED?