Paying attention to detail when adding your artwork into our product preview images can significantly impact your sales success. A common question we receive is, "What format should I save my file as a JPG or PNG?" Our platform accepts both JPG and PNG files, and choosing between them involves considering several factors. This article aims to delineate the disparities between these file types and provide guidance on selecting the most suitable option for your artistic needs.
Understanding the Difference
JPG:
Saving a file in JPG format results in a compressed image with a small file size. JPGs are designed to minimise detailed photographic images by eliminating information imperceptible to the human eye. The compression process is "lossy," making JPEGs generally smaller than PNGs, albeit at the expense of some original image quality. Notably, JPG does not support transparency in images, and due to their smaller size, they offer quicker uploading.
PNG:
PNG proves advantageous for storing line drawings, text, and iconic graphics in a small file size. In contrast to JPGs, PNGs employ a "lossless" compression process, ensuring the image retains its sharpness without degradation. PNG supports transparency in images, and its lossless compression maintains image quality even after multiple edits and saves. However, PNG files tend to be larger than JPGs due to the absence of heavy compression.
Choosing Between JPG and PNG
When comparing JPG and PNG, the visual difference in quality is often negligible. Each format has its strengths and weaknesses, and utilizing both strategically is key.
Using JPG:
Recommended for photographs or digital images lacking clean edges, JPG is ideal for artists with numerous designs not requiring transparent backgrounds or intricate line artworks. The smaller file sizes facilitate faster uploading and conserve storage space.
Note: Starting with a high-resolution file ensures minimal quality loss when saving as JPG. This format is well-suited for simple designs.
Using PNG:
Advanced artists often opt for PNGs with transparent backgrounds, particularly for apparel items or products featuring cut-outs. In apparel, using PNGs facilitates printing on both dark and light garments, as white areas in the design will print. For stickers, transparent PNGs enable designs to take custom shapes.
For other detailed designs like line drawings, graphics, illustrations, or text, PNG's lossless compression ensures sharpness in the final printed product.
Tip : Check your previews after uploading new artwork. Click on the "Generate Preview" button while editing products to view what customers will see during their shopping experience.
