With logos, you’ll be using vector graphics, whereas with your print advertisements, you’ll be using raster images. They don’t just carry pixels but also all the information regarding the assortment of the pixels. With raster files, you’ll typically use extensions like GIF, JPEG and PNG. With vector images, you’ll utilize mathematical formulas made up of lines, curves and dots that allow your drawn-out elements to scale proportionally. These points are referred to as coordinates, whereas the curves are referred to as paths. The fundamental strategy underlying the raster data model is the tessellation of a plane, into a two-dimensional array of squares, each called a cell or pixel (from “picture element”).
The size of each square pixel, known as the resolution or support, is constant across the grid. Raster or gridded data may be the result of a gridding procedure. These online tools can help you turn pixelated raster images into smooth, scalable vector graphics. Between raster and vector images, the “better” choice depends on the content and purpose of the image. Meanwhile, vector images are in the format of SVG, and some others.
How Do I Know Which Image Type Is Best to Use?
Raster images can be created with software like Adobe Photoshop or GIMP. Converting a Raster image to a Vector image is complicated and time-consuming. Also, converting Raster to Vector is unnecessary as the printed images or photos captured with a digital camera are in Raster format.
In both cases some information is lost, although certain vectorization operations can recreate salient information, as in the case of optical character recognition. Rasterizing is the process of converting a vector image into a bitmap image. Sometimes, you need to rasterize an image because the file format you’re using doesn’t support vector images. Or, you might need to rasterize an image because you want to apply a Photoshop filter or bitmap effect that can only be applied to raster images.
What is a Vector Image?
Shutterstock’s collection of images includes tons of scalable vector graphics and images available for download, like fonts, patterns, and illustrations. To view vector images exclusively, change the Image Type located under the search bar and select Vectors. Raster images are compatible with all recognizable and popular software. Most of the images that you see on the internet are Raster images.
Take a look at the image of the black panther illustration below. Technically, they are both raster images now, but for demonstrative purposes, the native file of the one on the left was a raster JPG and the one on the right was a vector EPS. As you can see from the zoomed-in views below, you can begin to see the individual pixels that make up the picture on the left, giving it a blurry – or pixelated – appearance. Meanwhile, no matter how much you zoom in on the panther on the right, you will always see smooth lines. A vector image’s formulaic makeup keeps file sizes to a minimum in comparison to its raster counterparts.
Vector Image Applications
Moreover, and more importantly, the time and energy that it will take to make a vector resemble a raster is not worth the underwhelming result. As vector images are composed of mathematically-defined points, every change in color or tone would require you to create a new line, point, curve, and equation. Let’s dive into raster vs. vector differences, pros, cons, and how to convert your file formats. Whether you’re editing photos or creating new icons, you’ll be prepared for your next creative undertaking. They often Some common vector files types are SVG and PDF files and are typically used for backgrounds, templates, and banners. Converting a raster image to vector formats can be done, but in specific contexts.
Early mechanical televisions developed in the 1920s employed rasterization principles. Electronic television based on cathode-ray tube displays are raster scanned with horizontal rasters painted left to right, and the raster lines painted top to bottom. Some compression algorithms, such as RLE and LZW, are lossless, where the original pixel values can be perfectly regenerated from the compressed data.
Pros and Cons of Raster Images
To edit raster images, you must use raster-based programs or plug-ins like this PowerPoint add-in to edit your raster icons. Raster images are made up of a fixed number of pixels that determine the resolution quality of the image. When a photographer takes a picture with their camera, the image is built out in pixels.
Rather than being comprised of square-shaped pixels, vectors are made up of mathematical curves and lines, meaning vectors display visual information differently than raster images. So, while vectors are ideal for scalable logos, typography, and design, they’re not difference between raster and vector the best choice for photographic images. In the example image above, the raster version of the photograph (on the left) looks best. The vector version of the image (on the right) is oversimplified, as vector programs visualize graphics in groups of solid colors.
Vector images also have the tendency to stand out with their attractive use of color, texture, depth, and layers. This gives businesses another reason to use them in their promotional content. This material can include everything from billboards to posters and business cards.
The main difference between vector and raster graphics is that raster graphics are composed of pixels, while vector graphics are composed of paths. A raster graphic, such as a gif or jpeg, is an array of pixels of various colors, which together form an image. Vector images make use of mathematical equations, lines and curves to form an image.
Vector vs Raster Graphics
They retain their clarity and sharpness even when you enlarge the image. If you look closely at a Vector image you will see seamless curves and well-defined lines. Vector images can be created with specialized software like Adobe Illustrator, CorelDraw or InkScape.
- They’re also easier to view and share online, especially on social media and through web image browsers.
- The basic difference between these two types of digital images is that the raster image is formed using pixels.
- Understanding different file formats and mediums is essential to help you communicate effectively.
- So, while vectors are ideal for scalable logos, typography, and design, they’re not the best choice for photographic images.
- Images with simple designs, like repetitive patterns, are the easiest to convert versus detailed graphics.
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