There are two ways in which computer graphics can be generated by a computer: as vectors or as bitmaps. Bitmapped graphics consist of a series of tiny squares called pixels, while vector graphics are essentially instructions to a computer to create a series of geometrical shapes each with a given set of attributes. Bitmapped images are typical continuous tone images such as photographs. Vector based images are typical flat artwork designs such as logos, charts, symbols and illustrations.
Vector graphics can be generated in a number of programs. Firstly, there are the specialist drawing programs like AutoCad. Then there are general purpose drawing tools such as Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. And, finally, there are any number of regular programs which inlude a set of drawing tools. This last category includes all the various programs in Microsoft Office.
Since vector images are essential mathematical formulas, the quality of such images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the image is created. If an image is displayed on the screen, it will be rendered at screen resolution; if it is printed on a high resolution printer, it will be printed at high resolution; and so on.
In contrast to vector graphics, bitmapped images are often acquired rather than created from scratch. Photos are typical loaded onto a computer from a digital camera or scanned in. As far as manipulating bitmapped images, the most widely used software is definitely Adobe Photoshop which is available in a few different flavours such as Photoshop Elements as well as the main program: Photoshop CS4. Other programs include Corel PHOTO-PAINT and Paint Shop Pro.
Another key difference between the two types of image is that the quality of bitmapped images is determined when the image is acquired: when the photograph is taken or when the print is scanned. Although the quality of a bitmap can be reduced (a process known as downsampling), it is not possible to increase its resolution or quality.
As regards conversion from one graphic type to another, it is far easier to convert a vector image to a bitmap than the other way round. The process of converting a vector to a bitmap is called rasterization and is usually very successful: in fact, most bitmap editing software will allow you to specify the quality of the resulting bitmap. To convert bitmaps into vectors, you will normally use a utility to trace the lines and filled areas of the bitmap. However, the resulting vector image is normally difficult to manipulate. Adobe Illustrator has a powerful utility for tracing bitmaps.
So, which is easier to learn, vector drawing programs or bitmap editing programs? Well, on our Adobe training courses, we find that most delegates seem to find bitmapped images easier to work with. This may of course simply be because they find working with rich media more visually appealing. However, we normally advice delegates who plan to undergo Adobe Creative Suite training to begin with a Photoshop course before tackling Adobe Illustrator.
Vector graphics can be generated in a number of programs. Firstly, there are the specialist drawing programs like AutoCad. Then there are general purpose drawing tools such as Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. And, finally, there are any number of regular programs which inlude a set of drawing tools. This last category includes all the various programs in Microsoft Office.
Since vector images are essential mathematical formulas, the quality of such images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the image is created. If an image is displayed on the screen, it will be rendered at screen resolution; if it is printed on a high resolution printer, it will be printed at high resolution; and so on.
In contrast to vector graphics, bitmapped images are often acquired rather than created from scratch. Photos are typical loaded onto a computer from a digital camera or scanned in. As far as manipulating bitmapped images, the most widely used software is definitely Adobe Photoshop which is available in a few different flavours such as Photoshop Elements as well as the main program: Photoshop CS4. Other programs include Corel PHOTO-PAINT and Paint Shop Pro.
Another key difference between the two types of image is that the quality of bitmapped images is determined when the image is acquired: when the photograph is taken or when the print is scanned. Although the quality of a bitmap can be reduced (a process known as downsampling), it is not possible to increase its resolution or quality.
As regards conversion from one graphic type to another, it is far easier to convert a vector image to a bitmap than the other way round. The process of converting a vector to a bitmap is called rasterization and is usually very successful: in fact, most bitmap editing software will allow you to specify the quality of the resulting bitmap. To convert bitmaps into vectors, you will normally use a utility to trace the lines and filled areas of the bitmap. However, the resulting vector image is normally difficult to manipulate. Adobe Illustrator has a powerful utility for tracing bitmaps.
So, which is easier to learn, vector drawing programs or bitmap editing programs? Well, on our Adobe training courses, we find that most delegates seem to find bitmapped images easier to work with. This may of course simply be because they find working with rich media more visually appealing. However, we normally advice delegates who plan to undergo Adobe Creative Suite training to begin with a Photoshop course before tackling Adobe Illustrator.
About the Author:
Author is a developer and trainer with Macresource Computer Solutions, a UK IT training company offering Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator training courses in London and throughout the UK.
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