How to Learn the Difference Between a Vector and a Raster Image
Know that Raster graphics, also known as bitmap graphics, are digital images which can be displayed on a screen., Learn that Vector graphics are used to create shapes, lines, polygons, in fact any shape imaginable.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Know that Raster graphics
They are made from pixels which are points of colour.
Using raster graphics is ideal for drawing a photo image on a screen as each pixel has its own colour value.
Raster graphics are resolution dependent – this means it cannot be scaled larger without losing quality.
This loss of quality makes images look pixelated (the ragged square-like look you see when a raster image is enlarged too far).
Adobe Photoshop creates and manipulates raster graphics. -
Step 2: also known as bitmap graphics
The software (Illustrator) thinks of it as a mathematical formula- for example, the user creates a line on a 45º angle from point A to point B for a distance of 50mm and is 2mm wide.
The software draws the line based on this data rather than each pixel.
Therefore vector graphics are infinitely scalable – if it’s 50mm in length or 5 meters (16.4 ft) in length the relationship between the points will always be the same.
This is why vector graphics are always used with creating a logo.
A designer can create the vector logo and that logo can then be applied to anything from a business card to building signage with no loss of quality.
However, vector cannot be used to efficiently draw photo images. -
Step 3: are digital images which can be displayed on a screen.
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Step 4: Learn that Vector graphics are used to create shapes
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Step 5: polygons
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Step 6: in fact any shape imaginable.
Detailed Guide
They are made from pixels which are points of colour.
Using raster graphics is ideal for drawing a photo image on a screen as each pixel has its own colour value.
Raster graphics are resolution dependent – this means it cannot be scaled larger without losing quality.
This loss of quality makes images look pixelated (the ragged square-like look you see when a raster image is enlarged too far).
Adobe Photoshop creates and manipulates raster graphics.
The software (Illustrator) thinks of it as a mathematical formula- for example, the user creates a line on a 45º angle from point A to point B for a distance of 50mm and is 2mm wide.
The software draws the line based on this data rather than each pixel.
Therefore vector graphics are infinitely scalable – if it’s 50mm in length or 5 meters (16.4 ft) in length the relationship between the points will always be the same.
This is why vector graphics are always used with creating a logo.
A designer can create the vector logo and that logo can then be applied to anything from a business card to building signage with no loss of quality.
However, vector cannot be used to efficiently draw photo images.
About the Author
Elizabeth Jackson
Specializes in breaking down complex creative arts topics into simple steps.
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