In today’s fast-paced digital and physical event landscape, visuals play a crucial role in capturing attention, engaging audiences and ensuring a professional presentation. Whether for corporate conferences, product launches, weddings or festivals, high-quality graphics are essential for creating a memorable experience. It’s also worth mentioning that graphics can drastically impact project delivery, turning something from smooth and seamless to tricky and cumbersome without much effort.

For all stakeholders, graphics are crucial. Here’s why event graphics matter and key aspects to consider, including format, resolution and brand continuity.

The role of graphics in events 🎨

Graphics at both live and digital events serve multiple functions, from attracting attendees to reinforcing messaging and brand identity. Well-designed visuals help create excitement, direct foot traffic, ensure brands stand out and set the tone for the event. From digital banners and social media posts to physical signage and stage backdrops, graphics are a critical component of the overall event experience.

Choosing the right format 💻

The format of graphics can directly impact clarity and effectiveness. Different platforms and display methods require different file types:

• Vector Graphics (e.g., AI, EPS, SVG): Ideal for logos and scalable designs since they maintain clarity at any size.

• Raster Graphics (e.g., PNG, JPEG, TIFF): Used for photos and complex images but need to be high resolution to avoid pixelation.

• GIFs and MP4s: Effective for digital presentations and social media animations.

Using the correct format ensures compatibility with various display mediums, whether for print, digital screens or social media. Also bear in mind, the higher the quality of image the large the file size. In instances where storage space is at a premium, it’s worth optimising graphics to strike the right balance between quality and file size.

Resolution matters 👍🏼

Using a low resolution can make event graphics appear blurry or unprofessional, negatively impacting the event’s perception. Always aim to use the highest resolution you can and optimise the file via size and format.

Here are some resolution guidelines to follow:

• Print Materials: At least 300 DPI (dots per inch) to ensure sharp, high-quality prints.

• Digital Displays: Typically 72-150 DPI, but images should be optimised for large screens to prevent distortion.

• LED Screens & Projection Mapping: Requires ultra-high resolution to maintain clarity at large sizes - try and learn the resolution of the display(s) beforehand, that’ll let you know what you should aim for.

Working with high-resolution images ensures that all graphics remain crisp and professional, whether viewed up close or from a distance.

Ensuring brand continuity ⭐

Event graphics should align with your brand identity to create a cohesive experience. Consistent use of colours, fonts, logos and messaging helps reinforce recognition and professionalism. Consider these best practices:

• Stick to brand guidelines to maintain a unified look across all materials.

• Ensure logo placement is strategic but not overpowering.

• Match the colour scheme to the event’s theme while maintaining brand integrity.

Brand continuity enhances credibility and strengthens the overall impact of the event, ensuring attendees associate the experience with your organisation or cause.

Our final thought… 🤔

Graphics are a vital component of any event, shaping first impressions and reinforcing messaging. By carefully considering format, resolution and brand continuity, you can ensure that your visuals leave a lasting impact.

Where possible, look to use vector-based graphics as these’ll look sharp and clear at any size. When it comes to photographs and imagery, use the highest resolution possible but optimise the file size as best you can - striking the right balance is key.

Whether designing for digital platforms or large-scale print materials, high-quality event graphics enhance the overall experience, making the event more engaging, professional and memorable.

Keep in mind that while high-quality imagery elevates engagement at an event, low-quality imagery has the opposite effect, potentially causing damage to the brand and negatively impacting event ROI - what’s the lesson? Make your imagery a priority!