Artwork Specifications
Graphic Programs
The art department at Advertising Advantage prepares the final images in the following programs and versions:
- Adobe Illustrator 10
- Adobe Photoshop 10
If your art is prepared in a program not listed above, please save your file in one of the following formats (listed in order of our preference):
- Adobe Illustrator (.ai)
- Adobe Photoshop (.psd)
- .EPS
- .JPG ( be sure it is a high resolution, 600 ppi. or higher, to allow for the enlargement necessary in outdoor advertising)
- .TIF (same as above)
- DO NOT SEND QUARKXPRESS OR PAGEMAKER FILES. WE CANNOT OPEN THEM.
- PDF Files - If you wish to submit your artwork as a pdf file be sure it is saved using the PRESS setting or better. Image should be CMYK (full color process), not RGB. Remember in most cases a pdf file cannot be manipulated in any way so be sure you scale it correctly to our specifications.
- Please do not submit artwork done in Microsoft Office programs.
Scaling and Vectors
When sending vector-based file, always convert text to outlines or embed the fonts when saving. All graphics must be at least 600 DPI or vector based.
Please use either CMYK (full color process) or PMS colors (Pantone Matching System) from the coated color chart. On the printed copy list all colors used, Media types accepted: Windows format 3.5” floppy disk, DVD, or CD-ROM. Do not send MAC disks, we cannot read them. RGB should only be used for the Digital billboard.
If sending via mail, label the disk with the company name, contact name and phone number on the outside of disc.
All artwork needs to be scaled at ¼” = 1’. For example: a 12’x24’ is scaled to 3”x6” at a resolution of at least 300 dpi or higher. Please contact your sales representative for actual sizes of your signs.
Digital Artwork is always scaled to 320 pixels high by 1120 pixels wide with low compression. Please use RGB mode.
Tri-vision Artwork - when utilizing Tri-visions as your outdoor medium; dark or bright colored backgrounds work the best.
Always send a printed copy of the artwork if possible, or a JPG proof, so we can compare the image on the disc to what to you expect the final to look like. Even if you created the artwork you will be expected to approve the artwork with a signature via fax or hard copy.
Advise for Artwork
Letter Sizing
| Distance in Feet | Print Resolution | Examples | Minimum Readable Text Height in Inches |
| 5 to 50 | High | Inside, close up | 1-2 |
| 50 to 100 | High | Windows, Benches | 2-4 |
| 100 to 200 | Normal | Posters | 4-8 |
| 200 to 300 | Normal | Posters, some bulletins | 8-10 |
| 300 to 350 | Normal | Bulletins | 10-15 |
| 350 to 500 | Normal | Bulletins | 15-20 |
| 500 to 600 | Low-Normal | Super Bulletin | 20-24 |
| 600'+ | Low | Super Bulletin | 24-40 |
| Note: Readability is also dependeant on color contrast. Higher contrasts will allow for smaller text size. Complicated backgrounds behind text will also reduce readability. | |||
Contrast/Color/Fonts
- High Contrast is important for legibility. Please use opposing colors whenever possible. (i.e. Black and White)
- Bright Colors stand out more and each color can evoke emotion (i.e. Red is a danger color)
- Fonts are important for legibility. Scripts are more difficult to read than block fonts (i.e. Arial Black is a common outdoor font)
- Number of words should be kept between 7 and 11 words.
- People think in pictures, so use photos and pictures if possible
- Photo’s should be saved at a minimum of 300 dpi or 600 dpi preferably
- Vector based fonts should be turned into curves/outlines to ensure font style.
- If using special or obscure fonts please embed those fonts or email font separately ahead of time.
- Check your scale. Any client provided artwork need to be in scale.
FAQ
- WHY CAN'T WE TAKE PICTURES OFF OF SOMETHING? LIKE ANOTHER PICTURE OR ANOTHER AD, ETC...
- This can be done, unfortunately a scanned image loses integrity both in forms of clarity and quality. We would rather have the image in digital format to ensure a high quality product.
- Website images are displayed on computer screens at 72 dpi. This low quality is not conducive to billboards or benches. Again, a true 300 dpi file or greater is recommended to ensure a quality product
- IS THE ARTWORK ON THE BENCHES PAINTED ON?
- The artwork is transferred via a special large format printer to an aggressive adhesive vinyl. This vinyl is then fixed to coroplast. (corrugated plastic)
- DO WE HAVE AN FTP?
- Not currently, but through trusted vendor we access to a FTP site at www.camelcityposters.com.
- WHAT SIZE FILE WILL OUR EMAIL ACCEPT?
- 10MB
Definitions and Key Terms used through out the Operational Process
- Creating the Artwork Process – ARTWORK (Main Word), Develop, Spec, Copy, Drawing, Computer file, Picture, Image, Billboard Artwork, Bench Artwork.
- Creating the Physical Sign - PRODUCTION(Main Word), Display, Sign, Material, Vinyl, Banner, Billboard Production, Bench Production.
- Putting the Sign up – POSTING (Main Word), Putting Out, Maintenance, Going Up, Moving, placing, relocating, locating.
