Member Avatar for suavedesign

What is a scalable image? If a client wants his logo to be "scalable", what exactly does that mean? Can I create it as a regular logo, and then just save it as .svg, or do I have to create the logo in a certain way?
Thanks.

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A concise, practical answer grounded in the thread: asked whether “scalable” is just a file-type request; highlighted that intended uses (business card vs. billboard) drive the specs; pointed toward web-friendly vector options; provided an external reference. The core takeaway: “scalable” is a requirement for flexible, lossless resizing across media — the safe deliverable is a vector master plus a small, documented set of exported files and usage rules.

Recommended deliverables (package):

  • Vector master (editable AI or EPS or print-ready PDF) with fonts converted to outlines and strokes expanded where appropriate.
  • SVG optimized for the web (clean viewBox, no unnecessary metadata).
  • Print-ready PDF (CMYK, 300 dpi images if any) and, where requested by print vendors, a high-res TIFF.
  • Raster exports for common digital uses: transparent PNGs (multiple pixel sizes), and JPGs for photo-heavy placements.
  • Brand sheet: color values (Pantone/CYM K /RGB /hex), minimum size, clear-space rules, and monochrome/reverse versions.

Practical cautions and tips:

  • Preserve a layered editable master (for future edits) but give clients outlined/flattened versions so fonts and links don’t break.
  • Avoid hairline strokes and tiny text that disappear when scaled; supply simplified lockups for very small uses (favicons, badges).
  • Watch for effects (drop shadows, raster filters) that turn vectors into bitmaps — keep the master pure vector where possible.
  • Label files clearly and include a short README listing which file to use for print, web, and signage.

For real-world clarity, package the vector master plus the common exports and a one‑page usage guide so “scalable” becomes an asset, not a guessing game.

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Member Avatar for BigPaw

He would like the image you provide him with to be of a high enough resolution that he can, perhaps, use it on a business card, on a flyer, or on a business sign, or even a poster depending on how he wants to advertise. It would help you to know something of how he will use this image.

So, your goal is to make the image as high-res as possible, with no compression, and using an image format that will carry this 'pliability'. I've typically used the 'Tiff' format for this. I'd recommend you research the 'Tiff' format, just to satisfy yourself and to confirm with your customer that he/she can use that format. (they may want you to explain its attributes) Some image hosting sites don't support 'Tiff'.

Member Avatar for AARTI SHRIVAS

may be this links is use full for you.

Member Avatar for JorgeM

@sauvedesign- you mentioned SVG in your post. SVG's, or Scalable Vector Graphics, are created using mathematical formulas, so they are quite different than the other image formats such as jpg, png, etc.. I don't think the client was referring to that type of graphic. I would agree with BigPaw that its most likely that the client does not want a low resolution image.

In any event, if you are interested in learning more about SVGs, I have an overview and SVG samples (if you use your browser's -/+ zoom feature, you can see how the SVGs are actually scalable and do not loose any quality). HTML5 - Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) Overview

You should note that most of the web browsers that are in use today have support for displaying SVG images- Internet Explorer 9, Firefox, Opera, Chrome, and Safari support SVG.

Edited by JorgeM
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