Summary
Step-by-step instructions for creating a full-screen signage image in Adobe Express at a custom size (1080p or 4K, landscape or portrait) and downloading it as a PNG or JPG to upload to Carousel. A good alternative to PowerPoint for publishers who want more design flexibility.
Body
Questions
- How do I create a full-screen signage image in Adobe Express?
- How do I make a custom-size design at 1080p or 4K?
- How do I create a portrait (vertical) image for a sideways display?
- How do I download an Adobe Express design as a PNG or JPG?
- What is a good alternative to PowerPoint for making signage images?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin faculty and staff who have access to Adobe Express through their Bowdoin Adobe account. Adobe Express runs in a web browser and is a good alternative to PowerPoint when you want more design flexibility for a full-screen signage image.
Note: You need to be signed in to Adobe Express with your Bowdoin Adobe account first. For sign-in help, see the Accessing Adobe Express article in the Related Articles section.
Resolution
Step 1: Start a custom-size design
- Sign in to Adobe Express in your web browser.
- Start a new design and choose the Custom size option.
- Set the units to px (pixels) and enter the width and height for the resolution and orientation you need:
| Target |
Width (px) |
Height (px) |
| 1080p landscape |
1920 |
1080 |
| 1080p portrait |
1080 |
1920 |
| 4K landscape |
3840 |
2160 |
| 4K portrait |
2160 |
3840 |
- Create the design to open the editor at that exact size.
Step 2: Design your image
- Fill the whole canvas with your background so there are no unintended borders.
- Add your text, images, and graphics. Keep important content away from the very edges.
- Use large, high-contrast text so the message is readable on a display.
Step 3: Download the image
- Select Download.
- Choose the file type: PNG for text and graphics, or JPG for photographs.
- Save the file to your computer.
Step 4: Upload to Carousel
Once you have the image file, upload it as a full-screen image bulletin. See the Create and Publish a Bulletin in Carousel article in the Related Articles section.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources
AI-assisted content: This article was drafted with the assistance of an AI writing tool and reviewed by Bowdoin IT staff for accuracy.