picture quality in after effects

[wan2no]

If I am using images in after effects as layouts and logos, should I encode the images in adobe illustrator, .ai, files, png, psd or gif?

I understand that all 4 files can produce a transparency; however, is the quality enhanced depending on which one you choose. I also know that you can manipulate the psd and the ai files alot better than the other two but what is the real difference in manipulation between these 2 formats. I read some where that you can copy and paste the vector path points from illustrator to after effects. Is this true


Thanks in advance

[guns1inger]

gif is rubbish as it has limited bitdepth and requires dithering.

AI is only appropriate if you are working with vector illustrator files.

PSD is great if you need to preserve layers and layer effects, but sizes can get big.

png is a good compromise if you need colour depth, transparency, but not layers