Frequently Asked Questions
Work Request Form Questions
- After I submit a Work Request Form, how long until someone contacts me?
- If I just want to get a little feedback on a thought or idea, do I need to go through all this formal stuff?
- I have no idea how much this stuff costs. How can I find out?
Design Questions
- What does "image resolution" mean?
- What is "image proportion?"
- What are the different image file types "jpg, eps, tif, gif and png" used for?
- What's the difference between RGB and CMYK?
- What's the difference between a logo and a brand?
After I submit a Work Request Form, how long until someone contacts me?
You should be contacted within two business days. If not, please contact a creative manager.
If I just want to get a little feedback on a thought or idea, do I need to go through all this formal stuff?
Of course not! We like to hear ideas—stop over and chat!
I have no idea how much this stuff costs. How can I find out?
Details, details, details. These can fluctuate considerably and affect cost, but "ballpark" numbers are generally known—just ask one of us!
What does "image resolution" mean?
Resolution is the measurement of how many pixels/dots per inch (dpi) are in an image or graphic; the more dots, the more detail/better quality an image. The standard resolution for a print image is 300 dpi (high resolution/high res) and for a web image is 72 dpi (low resolution/low res).
The relationship of one thing to another in a graphic. The proportions of a 1-inch square are the same as a 24-foot square (1:1) because the length and width of a square are always the same as each other. Changing the proportions of a square makes it a rectangle (e.g. 1:3). The yellow wing box in our logo should always be a square no matter how big or small it is scaled. Changing an image's proporation creates distortion, making the image look "wrong."
What are the different image file types "jpg, eps, tif, gif and png" used for?
When people request an image file from us (like a logo or photo), we'll often ask "what file type do you need?" which leaves some people stumped. Here's the gist on file types and how they're used:
- jpg - or "jpeg" files can be used in both print and web documents; the jpg format is commonly used for photos
- eps - a "vector" file, which means it can be scaled up or down without losing quality. EPS files are typically graphics (such as logos), not photos, and only used for print items.
- tif - or "tiff" files are used for high quality/large resolution graphics or photos and only used in print materials
- gif - can be used for print or web but most commonly used online since the image quality is lower than a jpg or eps
- png - used for online graphics like logos, now prefered over "gif" since the image quality is higher
What's the difference between RGB and CMYK?
RGB, which stands for red/green/blue, is the color format used for items displayed onscreen and the Web. All colors you see on TV or a computer monitor are made from combinations of red, green and blue.
Likewise, CMYK, which stands for cyan/magenta/yellow/black, is the color format used for printed items. Also called "4-color or full-color process," CMYK printing uses combinations of those four inks to create every color in the spectrum.
What's the difference between a logo and a brand?
In short, a company's logo is only part of the company's brand. The brand includes visual identity such as a logo, colors and typeface(s), but it also extends into all written correspondence, voice communication, presentation style, attitude, dress code, etc.—even human resources. The "voice" conveyed in visual materials (e.g. serious, bold, humorous) is but one piece in a concerted effort to cement the image of the company in the public's eye.