#Raster images vs vector pdf#

pdf (Portable Document Format only when saved from vector programs)ĭeciding what option to pick will be primarily based on your branding and what you are trying to display on your packaging. You can use the following formats for vector files. Vector files are best for design work such as logos and icons since there is a lot of detail to incorporate, and they may need to be in different sizes without losing quality when used for branding products, websites and more. Photoshop is not the right choice, as that program is mainly for raster images. Vector images are best created in programs such as Adobe Illustrator and Sketch.

#Raster images vs vector software#

The one drawback is that you can only access and manipulate vector images with specific software you cannot open them on other softwares unless converted to a raster file. They are also useful when working with file size limitations during the design process. Vector images remain smooth no matter how large it is sized, unlike raster images. The good news is Vectors can be easily converted to raster if required. They don’t lose image quality when scaling or editing, allowing for more flexibility. Vector graphics consist of paths that define geometric shapes to create an image. So once you get an idea of what vectors and rasters are, which one should you choose for your packaging? What is Vector?Ī Vector image is more of a specialized image, and it can only be created on certain design software such as Adobe Illustrator. A smaller file will be easier for storage but could be lower-quality. Higher-quality images will render better but also take up far more storage space. jpg (Joint Photographics Expert Group)Īlthough the image files will all display pixels, the display settings will vary across file sizes. You can save raster files in the following formats: While raster images are effective for photography, it is not as effective for designing logos for example as the sizing capabilities are limited to your pixel count. Raster images work best for photography and imagery rather than design work because they cannot be scaled the way vector images can and often become distorted when blown up into massive dimensions. Raster images are most commonly found in photography and digital tools, and to make any edits or changes, you’ll need a raster-based program such as Adobe Photoshop. One advantage of raster images is their ability to show subtle color gradations and complex compositions. You’re able to clearly see each pixel resulting in low quality

Lower pixel counts are obvious when zooming into the image. Raster images are commonly made from photo scans or digital camera captures and are best suited for non-line art images.Ī higher number of pixels means a higher quality image. Raster graphics or bitmap images are digital images consisting of tiny rectangular dots/pixels in a grid formation to represent an image. Now that we’ve established some key terms, we’ll look at what a Vector image is. Images on screens are essentially made up of small squares containing different color codes.īitmap: A bitmap is made up of pixels in a grid formation, and collectively makes up an image or picture. Pixel: A pixel is the smallest element of an image on a screen. You’ll often come across the terms ‘pixel’ and ‘bitmap’ in the design process.

We’ll first look at some important terms you’ll need to remember throughout the process.