Question
What file format should I use when submitting banner artwork?
Answer
A print-ready PDF is the best format for banner artwork. It locks in your fonts, colors, and resolution without the compression that degrades other formats, which matters a lot when a file is scaled up to banner size.
- PDF (preferred): preserves vectors, fonts, and layout with no quality loss.
- TIFF: a solid high-quality raster alternative when PDF is not an option.
- Avoid JPEG on large banners: compression artifacts become visible once the image is enlarged.
| Setting | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Color mode | CMYK |
| Resolution | 150 DPI at full size (300 for close-up) |
| Bleed | Per the product template |
- Outline or embed fonts so nothing reflows during preflight.
- Build the file at full print scale to keep resolution accurate.
- Include the bleed specified in the template so trimming never leaves white edges.
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