Name the surface people will see
Use the real dark header, package or photo as the test surface. A plain black preview may hide a problem that appears on a patterned picture. Also set the logo to its final size.
- Is the surface a solid color or a busy photo?
- Will the surface change across pages or screen sizes?
- How much room does the whole logo need?
- Can the name, symbol and tagline each be seen?
Write down the destination and its background. Keep that note with the selected file so another person does not place the same copy on a pale surface by mistake.
Pick the matching approved version
LogoTidy prepares versions for light and dark backgrounds.
Sources for this point: LogoTidy file preparation guide.
A dark background label names where the file belongs. It does not mean a dark rectangle was painted into it. Compare the actual lettering and symbol with your approved family.
If you have several versions, place them side by side on the same surface at the same size. Choose the one that keeps the name visible while retaining the intended color details. Do not reverse every color on your own.
Keep important color details
PNG can keep clear areas alongside colored artwork.
Sources for this point: W3C PNG specification.
| Part | Question |
|---|---|
| Name | Can every letter be seen without changing the spelling? |
| Symbol | Does its shape still look like the approved mark? |
| Inside gaps and white shapes | Did any intended part disappear? |
| Outside area | Is an unexpected box or pale rim visible? |
White may be an inside part of a badge, not unwanted background. Compare with the source before editing. If you find a pale outline that was not approved, check that as a separate edge problem.
Use useful visibility checks
WCAG minimum text contrast exempts lettering that is part of a logo. That is not a visibility guarantee.
Sources for this point: W3C logo contrast guidance.
Ask whether someone can identify the name in its real placement. Check with normal zoom and from the distance where the item will be seen. A tiny preview or a large zoomed view answers only part of that question.
Keep ordinary page text readable too. A logo exception should not be used to judge a nearby heading or button.
If no approved version works
- Try a quieter area of the surface.
- Use an approved backing panel if your brand allows one.
- Give the logo more room if the name is too small.
- Request a defined dark surface variation when no existing version works.
Describe what should stay the same, such as the symbol and key colors. Avoid stretching the mark or removing inside shapes just to make it show. Finish on the actual surface, with the intended version saved in your placement note.
Sources
These sources support the points linked above. Each date shows when we checked that source.
- LogoTidy file preparation guide
LogoTidy asks users to select complete artwork Checked . - W3C PNG specification
PNG supports clear and partly clear pixels Checked . - W3C logo contrast guidance
WCAG minimum text contrast exempts logo lettering Checked .