Quick Guide to Final Files: What Your Designer Delivers and How to Use Them

You’ve just wrapped up a big branding project, and your designer sends over a folder labeled “Final Files.” Inside, you find a collection of PNGs, PDFs, EPS files, and maybe even a few formats you’ve never heard of. You’re thrilled—your new brand is ready to take on the world—but also a little confused.

What are all these files for? Do you need every single one? And why does your designer keep mentioning “vector” like it’s some kind of magic word?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’ve got you covered with a no-nonsense breakdown of what these files are, why they matter, and how to use them. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel cool, calm, and completely confident managing your brand assets like the pro you are.

The Wild World of File Types: Raster vs. Vector, Resolution, and Compression

Before we dive into the specifics of each file type, let’s talk about the big picture. Not all files are created equal, and understanding the differences between raster and vector formats, high and low resolution, and compression methods can save you from some serious design headaches. Think of this as your crash course in design file lingo—it’s everything you need to know to keep your visuals looking sharp and professional in any scenario.

Raster vs. Vector
Raster files are made of pixels, and while they’re perfect for detailed images, they come with a catch: you can’t resize them without losing quality. That’s why designers are so picky about “saving it at the size you need.” Common raster formats include JPEG, PNG, and GIF.

Vector files, on the other hand, are built with mathematical formulas, meaning they can be resized infinitely without getting blurry. From business cards to billboards, vector files like EPS, AI, and PDF keep your designs looking crisp no matter the size.

Hi-Res vs. Low-Res
Resolution is all about how sharp your images look. Hi-res files, measured in DPI (dots per inch), are essential for print projects like posters and brochures. For anything going online, low-res files (usually 72 DPI) are your go-to—they load faster and still look great on screens. Just don’t try to print a low-res file; trust us, it won’t end well.

Lossless vs. Lossy Compression
Compression is how we keep file sizes manageable, but it’s a balancing act. Lossless compression retains all the original data, making it ideal for high-quality graphics and transparency. Formats like PNG are perfect examples. Lossy compression, on the other hand, sacrifices some detail to make files smaller. JPEGs and GIFs are lossy, making them great for web use but less ideal for printing or intricate designs.

File Types and Their Uses

When you receive your final files, each format has a specific job to do. From sharing your logo on social media to printing a flawless brochure, the right file ensures your brand looks sharp and professional every time.

1. PNG (.png)

• What it is: A file with a transparent background.
• How to use it: Perfect for overlaying your logo on photos, graphics, or anything digital.

2. JPG (.jpg)

• What it is: A compressed image file with no transparency.
• How to use it: Best for social media, web images, or email marketing—anywhere you need quick-loading visuals.

3. PDF (.pdf)

• What it is: The multitasker of file formats.
• How to use it: Ideal for marketing materials, presentations, or interactive decks.

4. EPS (.eps)

• What it is: A designer’s go-to for vector graphics.
• How to use it: Great for large-scale printing projects like banners or merchandise.

5. SVG (.svg)

• What it is: A flexible, scalable format for web and print.
• How to use it: Perfect for responsive websites or high-quality graphics that need to adapt to different sizes.
  
  

Additional File Types

Beyond the basics, there are a few more file types you might encounter. These formats add versatility to your branding toolkit, whether you’re working with video, photography, or custom edits.

1. AI (.ai)

• What it is: Adobe Illustrator’s native file format.
• How to use it: Keep this for your designer in case you need future edits or tweaks.

2. TIFF (.tif)

• What it is: A high-quality format for professional printing.
• How to use it: Perfect for photography or detailed projects where quality is key.

3. GIF (.gif)

• What it is: A file format for simple animations or low-res images.
• How to use it: Great for playful, looping visuals on websites or social media.

4. MP4 (.mp4)

• What it is: The universal video format.
• How to use it: Ideal for social media, website embeds, or ads.

5. MOV (.mov)

• What it is: A high-quality video format favored by Apple users.
• How to use it: Best for video editing or when you need the highest resolution possible.
  
  

Why Having the Right Files Matters

Your final files aren’t just assets—they’re the backbone of your brand. Knowing how to use the right format for the right purpose keeps your visuals looking sharp, consistent, and professional across every platform.