If you work with graphics, you need to know the difference between raster and vector formats. These are two types of digital images that have different characteristics and applications. In this article, you will learn what are the most common file formats for raster and vector graphics, and how to choose the best one for your project.
Raster graphics are composed of pixels, which are tiny squares of color that form an image. The more pixels an image has, the higher its resolution and quality. However, raster graphics also have some limitations. They can lose quality when resized, zoomed in, or printed at a different scale. They also tend to have larger file sizes than vector graphics. Some of the most common file formats for raster graphics are JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, and TIFF.
Vector graphics are based on mathematical equations that define shapes, curves, lines, and colors. They are not made of pixels, but of vectors, which are scalable and editable. Vector graphics can be resized, zoomed in, or printed without losing quality. They also have smaller file sizes than raster graphics. Some of the most common file formats for vector graphics are SVG, EPS, AI, PDF, and CDR.
Vector graphics are a type of digital image that uses mathematical equations to create shapes like lines, curves, and polygons.projects I have done under vector graphics are Logos, illustrations, web graphics. Vector graphics tend to have smaller file sizes compared to their raster counterparts. This is because they only need to store mathematical equations and instructions for rendering the image, rather than a grid of pixels.
I love to utilize Vector-compatible PDFs as source files that others can open and view without Adobe Illustrator. It get's tricky when you're linking multiple hi-res photos, as the file size can grow exponentially; but for logos, type treatments, and most graphic layouts, it negates needing an .AI file and an exported asset. Just File/Save-As a PDF with Illustrator Compatibility selected, and you can open scale, manipulate the vector in the PDF, just as you would an .AI file.
When deciding on a graphic format, consider your purpose and audience. Generally speaking, raster graphics are best for photographs, realistic images, complex textures, gradients, and shadows. These are often used for web design, social media, digital art, or online presentations. Vector graphics are great for logos, icons, illustrations, diagrams, charts, or text and are ideal for print design, branding, marketing, or vector art.
To choose the best format for vector graphics we need to keep in mind various factors, including your intended use, compatibility requirements, and the features offered by different file formats. To choose the best format for raster graphics we need to keep in mind various factors the nature of the image, the intended use, and specific features required.
Sometimes you may need to convert your graphic from one format to another, such as turning a raster image into a vector one. There are various tools and methods available to do this, depending on the complexity and quality of your graphic. For example, you can use an online converter like Online-Convert, Zamzar, or CloudConvert. Alternatively, if you have access to a graphic software like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, or CorelDRAW, you can open your graphic and save it as a different format or use a specific function to trace or rasterize it. Additionally, if you are familiar with coding, you can use a code editor such as Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, or Atom to write or edit the code of your graphic or use a plugin or extension to convert it.
Converting a raster image to a vector image involves a process called vectorization. This process traces the outlines of the raster image and converts them into scalable vector paths. There are various tools and methods available for vectorization, ranging from manual tracing to automated software solutions
Optimizing your graphic can be beneficial in terms of saving space, improving performance, and enhancing user experience. Depending on the format and platform you are using, there are different ways to optimize your graphic. For raster graphics, you can adjust the resolution, compression, color depth, or cropping. Alternatively, you can use a tool like TinyPNG, Compress JPEG, or ImageOptim to optimize them automatically. For vector graphics, simplifying the shapes, removing unnecessary points, or using symbols or patterns can help optimize them. Additionally, tools like SVGOMG, Vector Magic, or SVG Cleaner can be used to optimize them automatically.