What is a vector image: characteristics and differences with bitmaps

Every day you can find yourself on the net with countless images and surely many of them are vector images. But to talk about what a vector image is, we must first differentiate it from the bitmap images. These are those formed by a pixel Set, each of which has one or more values ​​that describe its color.

Vector images, on the other hand, are represented by geometric entities (circles, segments…) and mathematical formulas. But let’s take a closer look at its main features.

What is a vector image: Main characteristics

The vectorial image is based on mathematical formulas, and they are not divided into minimum units of information such as pixels, but rather into color spots and lines. They are built from vectorswhich are objects defined by a series of points that can be modified to give one shape or another to the final image.

Since they do not depend on a pixel grid, vector images are independent of resolution and therefore they maintain sharpness and definition even when fully enlarged: they do not lose quality. Precisely for this reason, they are also capable of adapting to any shape, which is why they are especially used for

Other characteristics that help us better outline what a vectorial image is are the following:

  • The different objects that make up a vectorial image can climbchange shape, color or position independently of the rest. Each object or vector has its own mathematical formulas.
  • Objects in a vector graphic can merge each other and create intermediate shapes. In the same way, each part can be related in different ways to the rest of the vectors: group together, separate, form intersections, etc.
  • Every part of a vector image can be reused in other images. It will suffice to copy and paste into the other file.
  • The vector drawing is always editable. Unlike bitmap images, the vector ones can rectify their color or other properties at any moment of their edition.
  • They allow games with typography, in a more advanced way than pixelated images.
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Working with vector images

The main computer programs with which to work and create a vector image are Corel Draw and Adobe Illustrator. , more professional, allows you to save and edit images also in pdf.

However, both vector and bitmap images can be combined. Namely, a vector image can be exported to a bitmap image (such as a jpg or a gif). Likewise, a pixelated image can be included in vector formats, either as a texture or as part of the composition.

Currently, the creative possibilities of both types of images are endless.

Do you want to discover more about the world of digital design? How about you take a look at these articles? sure you like them

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