What is a Vector Image, and why is it important for your branding?
If you are new to the world of graphic design, there is no need to worry as you can make quick progress. You need to begin with the basics to get reliable foundations. There is a lot of fun learning about the latest tools in graphic design. Most importantly, you can make a living out of it. Many designers are also confused about most of the image file types. A vector file is the first thing to ask from a client, but most people are faced with blank stares of ignorance. It is, therefore, critical to understanding the importance of the available image files at your disposal.
What is a Vector Graphics?
So what is a vector graphic? It is the user of mathematical equations to define your creative designs. After drawing them out, you need mathematical equations to translate them into points. You will be using lines and curves to make the connection. These are also called vector paths and are responsible for all different shapes seen in vector graphics today. They allow scaling and resizing of vector graphics without compromising on the quality or size.
In essence, vector graphics is the creation of digital images via a sequence of commands in a combination of mathematical statements, which place lines and shapes in specific designs. A vector is essentially a representation of quality and direction simultaneously. Vector graphics, therefore, results from a graphic artist’s work, which is saved as a sequence of vector segments. It describes many points, which will be connected and form a smaller file.
Although it is different from raster graphics, it can be converted to raster graphics to map bits directly to display space. It is, therefore, named bitmap. The vector image converted to a raster image file before display to be ported between different systems. Vector files are also called geometric files are created with tools such as Adobe and CorelDraw. The most common vector file formats are .odg, .xml, .svg, and cgm. Animation images are created as vector files including 2-D and 3-D options and sent to a requestor before rasterizing.
The difference between vector imaging and bit pixel imaging
Bitmaps are also called raster imaging and are stored as tiny dots popularly known as pixels. Each pixel is a tiny square assigned a color and fits in a specific pattern. Pixels put together in a pattern define the image. When zooming on such an image, you can view pixels, which form the entire to make sense to you. The graphics can be edited changing the color of individual pixels with a program like Photoshop.
Vector images on their hand, are not based on pixel patterns. Instead, the mathematical formulas are used to draw the lines and curves to form geometric objects like circles and other shapes. Manipulating the lines and curves define the vector images to make up the image using an appropriate program. The vector images are preferred more than the raster images. They are smaller and convenient. Since bitmaps store color information they are bulkier and more complicated when forming an image. On the other hand, vectors use mathematical formulas hence take up less space. The vector versus Raster Graphics debate still rages today because they have varying advantages and downsides.
Vector images are scalable compared to bitmap images. Whenever raster images are scaled up, you can view the individual pixels making it. It is easily noticeable when you observe the edges of the image. Over time, there have been efforts to reduce these blurry edges to enhance the definition of the image. Whenever a vector image is scaled up, it is withdrawn to results a smoother than original definition thanks to the mathematical formulas used. The most popular bitmap formats are PNG, GIF, and JPEG. Due to poor initial support for vector graphics, the Scalable Vector (SVG) is lower than it. Currently, all browsers support SVG.
Bitmaps are still the best available for images, which need a wide range of color gradations. Most photographs are in this category. The vector formats are in contrast, are well suited for a few areas. The example of images is well suited for both logos and type in solid color.
Image Created by FreePik
More Features of Vector Graphics
- Scalability
Vector graphics are independent of resolution hence scalable. The shapes can easily be scaled and printed in any size without compromising on the quality of the image. They can, therefore, allow high-resolution printing to whatever output device.
- Color Editing is Simple
Vector images allow changing multi-color images to a limited color graphic. The limited colors are needed by tools such as in embroidery and vinyl signs. It can, therefore, be used for promotional items from logs to cups and bottles.
- Vector wireframe
The programs display can allow us to view the outline. The outline is critical to some of the companies because it guides the equipment used to create products. Some of them include engraving and cut signs hence the simplicity of the outline.
Image Created by FreePik
Why it is important for your logo to have this file
The reason for a vector logo is based on its flexibility and scalability. They are flexible enough to allow outputting to most of the raster formats available. This feature makes them convenient and useful to most people. The vector logos are also known to be scalable in size to allow enlarging them so they can fit the side of any blimp. Scalability ensures they can fit reduced sizes of a business card without affecting any quality.
Graphic Design can now be improved to make brand designs more appealing. Most importantly, Website Design can be made more effective to the brand thanks to the attractive imagery used. These images are vital in pulling the attention of the website visitors.
Apart from logos, vector graphics can also work on technical drawings, illustrations, and other promotional items. It is best used for signs and printing and engraving as well as in advanced CAD and engineering. Etching and 3D graphics are also popular versions
Subscribe
Be the first to read our new resources, and get special offers just for you.
PixelNerd is located in Edmonton, Alberta. We have been creating engaging online experiences that draw on our experience in Graphic Design, SEO, and Website Design
Great read! Thank you for clarifying what vector imaging is and how they can be used.