Computer graphics can be created as either raster or vector images.

Raster graphics are bitmaps. A bitmap is a grid of individual pixels that collectively make up an image. Raster graphics are basically images created from countless tiny squares to generate one large picture. Each square, or pixel, is coded in a specific hue or shade. Individually, these pixels are worthless. Together, they’re worth a thousand words.

Raster graphics are best used for non-line art images; specifically digitized photographs, scanned artwork or detailed graphics. Non-line art images are best represented in raster form because these typically include subtle chromatic gradations, undefined lines and shapes, and complex composition.

However, because raster images are pixel-based, they suffer a malady called image degradation. Just like photographic images that get blurry when blown up, a raster image gets jagged and rough.

Why?

Ultimately, when you look close enough, you can begin to see the individual pixels that comprise the image. Hence, your raster-based image of Wayne Newton, magnified to 1000%, becomes bit mapped. Although raster images can be scaled down more easily, smaller versions often appear less crisp or “softer” than the original.

To maximize the quality of a raster image, you must keep in mind that the raster format is resolution-specific, meaning that raster images are defined and displayed at one specific resolution. Resolution in raster graphics is measured in dpi, or dots per inch. The higher the dpi, the better the resolution. Remember also that the resolution you actually see on any output device is NOT a function of the file’s own internal specifications, but the output capacity of the DEVICE itself. Thus, high resolution images should only be used if your equipment has the capability to display them at high resolution.

Better resolution, however, comes at a price. Just as raster files are significantly larger than vector files, high resolution raster files are significantly larger than low resolution raster files. Overall, as compared to vector graphics, raster graphics are less economical, slower to display and print, less versatile and more unwieldy to work with. Remember though that some images, like photographs, are still best displayed in raster format. Common raster formats include TIFF, JPEG, GIF, PCX and BMP files. Despite its shortcomings, raster format is still the Web standard – within a few years, however, vector graphics will likely surpass raster graphics in both prevalence and popularity.

Unlike pixel-based raster images, vector graphics are based on mathematical formulas that define geometric primitives such as polygons, lines, curves, circles and rectangles. Because vector graphics are composed of true geometric primitives, they are best used to represent more structured images, like line art graphics with flat, uniform colors. Most created images (as opposed to natural images) meet these specifications, including logos, letterhead, and fonts.

Inherently, vector-based graphics are more malleable than raster images – thus, they are much more versatile, flexible and easy to use. The most obvious advantage of vector images over raster graphics is that vector images are quickly and perfectly scalable. There is no upper or lower limit for sizing vector images. Just as the rules of mathematics apply identically to computations involving two-digit numbers or two-hundred-digit numbers, the formulas that govern the rendering of vector images apply identically to graphics of any size.

Further, unlike raster graphics, vector images are not resolution-dependent. Vector images have no fixed intrinsic resolution, rather they display at the resolution capability of whatever output device (monitor, printer) is rendering them. Also, because vector graphics need not memorize the contents of millions of tiny pixels, these files tend to be considerably smaller than their raster counterparts. Overall, vector graphics are more efficient and versatile. Common vector formats include AI, EPS, CGM, WMF and PICT (Mac).

Posters & Banners are the most affordable means of advertising and most businesses don’t have a dollar to waste. What’s more, signs are always on the job for you, advertising 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

When you are designing your sign; you should always utilize the resources of an experienced sign professional. However, if you wish to create your own design, its important to keep the following criteria in mind:

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

Choosing the proper Banner material is essential for lasting & durability. The right material will determine how long your sign will last; and what the look and feel of your sign is.

If you want your banner to look good for an extended period of time ( ~ 3  months or more – particularly outdoors where the banner may be subject to wear and tear); you need to make sure your banner is at least 15 mil thick. For sizes up to 5ft, order from this Banner Section. If you need a larger size (from 5ft to 16ft) you can order here.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

Design your banner or poster with some kind of catch phrase and be very crisp and precise. Too much text and too many images will confuse the viewer. Make sure the message is to the point. Use proper fonts and sharp images.

Even if your poster or banner is visible, if it can’t be read by your intended audience, it has minimal impact and decreased value. Some of the things to keep in mind are the following:

1. Letter Size. Letters that are too small to read are commonplace in many signs today. For a quick reference on what size letters are needed for your sign; examine this visibility chart taken from the research conducted by the University of Pennsylvania State and the United States Sign Council.
2. Color & Finish Contrast. Letters that blend in with their background become illegible at moderate distances. The amount and type of lighting, both artificial and natural, is important as well to overall legibility.
3. White/Negative Space. Simply enlarging letters does not make them more readable. Proper letter kerning (the space between letters) and leading (the space between lines of text) have almost as much to do with legibility as letter size. Maintaining a high degree of white or negative space is important to keep the letters from running together or running into other distractions around the sign.
4. Logos. Do you have a logo that fits well with your banner or poster? Inclusion of graphical elements or a logo should complement the sign message and in most cases not overpower the entire artwork. Some logos (Such as McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, etc.) are strong enough brands that virtually no text is needed for their sign-however this is not typical for most business owners who need to send some message to their intended audience.

HOW FAR IS IT VISIBLE?

A banner or poster that cannot be seen should not be created. Identify the type of traffic your sign is meant to attract (sidewalk traffic, downtown vehicles, or highway traffic, for example) and use the proper size, color, angle, lighting, and placement for maximum visibility. Many of the decisions relating to visibility are limited by your local sign ordinances; so consult an expert for this information.