Vector graphics are ... Bitmap and vector graphics editors

In the modern world, computer images occupy a special place. Computer graphics is a division of science such as computer science. Vector graphics, in turn, is one of the sections of computer graphics. This is the name of the image that is created using mathematical formulas.

Raster graphics are a set of pixels. A vector graphics is a set of objects that are described by formulas.

With the help of this method of presenting graphic information, a vector illustration gets a number of advantages.

Why do vector graphics?

The possibility of the most accurate geometric constructions is the main task of vector computer graphics. That is, with the help of it, create diagrams, drawings and other documentation.

It should be noted that the vast majority of CAD systems are based on vector graphics.

Needless to say, raster and vector graphics editors, such as Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Paint Tool Sai and others, are actively used by designers. This is due to the peculiarities of vector computer graphics.

What is the basis?

The vector graphics lessons, which are held both in school and in a higher educational institution, tell in detail about the vector image.

It is based, first, the calculation of the coordinates of the points on the screen, which are part of the contour of the picture. This kind of vector graphics is called computable.

Secondly, the raster image is based on mathematical information about what properties this or that geometric figure has.

To construct illustrations, vector graphics use the coordinate method. The basic concept of this type of computer graphics is the line.

Where is it applied?

Vector computer graphics in modern society has a very wide scope in various fields of human activity. It is used everywhere, from advertising banners on pages of newspapers and magazines and finishing with diagrams and drawings in an area such as space.

Composition of a vector image

A vector picture is a collection of segments of vectors, whereas a bitmap image is a collection of points.

Vector graphics describe the illustration using curved and straight lines, which are called vectors.

In addition, the vector editor uses parameters such as the location and color of the line.

For example, an illustration is written off with dots, which creates a contour. Specifies the color of the outline and the area inside it.

Vector Graphics Objects

It is necessary to consider in more detail the distinctive features of raster and vector images - objects. Each such illustration may include one or more objects of the appropriate type.

Any vector graphic element consists of two parts: a contour and an inner region. The latter can have a fill or be empty. The fill of the inner area can be in the form of a color, a mosaic pattern, or a color transition.

The contour, in turn, can be open or, conversely, closed. In a vector object, it performs a double function:

1) With the help of a contour, it is possible to change the shape of the object in the figure.

2) The outline of a vector object can be drawn - in this case it will play the role of a stroke. You can specify its width, color and line style.

Vector Graphics Formats

CDR is the "native" format of the CorelDraw program. It should be noted that this format is incompatible even with its older versions, not to mention other editors.

SWF is a flash-format that is intended for viewing animation. In order to view it, you need to install FlashPlayer.

Many vector editors support only some vector graphics formats. EPS is one of them. This is the most versatile format for working with vector computer graphics. It is supported by the overwhelming majority of vector editors.

To create animated graphics, use Adobe Flash. Its format is FLA. Using the Action Script language, you can create managed scripts.

The Adobe Illustrator program creates an AI format by default . It should be noted that later versions of it are incompatible with the earlier versions, but it has the ability to save the drawing in the previous version.

Based on XML markup language, the SVG format was created, it was created to publish vector graphics on the Internet. The format supports animation, and is also an open standard. Free program for vector graphics Inkscape saves files in this format by default.

What are the advantages of vector graphics?

First, vector graphics - this is a relatively small weight of the image. In addition, the picture has a relatively simple detail.

Secondly, vector graphics are the ability to scale the image unlimitedly. However, its quality does not suffer.

Third, vector graphics - this is the possibility of unlimited movement, stretching, rotation, grouping and other. The image quality is not affected, again.

Fourthly, the program for vector graphics allows you to control the thickness and color of the line. And this possibility does not depend on the scale of the image.

Fifth, vector graphics are the ability to perform such transformations on objects as subtraction, addition, addition and intersection.

What are the disadvantages of vector graphics?

The first drawback is that if the vector image has many elements, then its size increases noticeably. So, it happens that the weight of the raster copy is much less than the weight of the vector original.

From the first lack follows the second - it is difficult to transfer photorealistic images.

And the last, the third drawback of vector graphics, is the problem of program compatibility.

Means of working with vector computer graphics

Just like in the case of raster graphics, for working with vector there is a huge number of various software tools. However, it is much more difficult to master them than raster graphic editors. The main programs for working with vector graphics are the following:

1) Adobe Illustrator. This graphic editor together with Adobe PageMaker and Adobe Photoshop forms a powerful package for the development of complex documents and layout of printing publications.

2) CorelDraw. This program is a professional editor of computer graphics. It has a rich set of settings, as well as a developed management system and user-friendly interface.

3) Macromedia Freehand. This graphic editor is one of the most intuitive and friendly programs in which you can work with vector graphics. The main distinguishing features: a simple control system and high speed. However, her abilities are much more modest than those of previous editors.