Vector and Rastor Graphics

• Graphic design content is comprised of vector graphics and raster graphics. A vector graphic is one or more shapes within any design whose definitions are calculated by mathematical equations. For instance the letter P would be produced as a vector graphic by two separate equations, one for the curve and one for the straight line. A rastor graphic is defined by the number of dots or pixels, also called the resolution, that provide the make-up for any shape. The letter P in a rastor graphic is produced by a grouping of consecutive dots that display the shape of the letter.
  
  

Positives of Vector Graphics

• Vector graphics will have the same resolution no matter the print sizePhotodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  Vector graphics are much smaller files than rastor graphics, typically, because only the equations that comprise the outline for each shape, as well as details like color, are stored within the file. The rest of the information is filled in by a design program. Since the same equations are used to reproduce a shape at any resolution, a downscaled or upscaled version of the same graphic keeps the same quality.
  
  

Disadvantage of Vector Graphics

• Rastor graphics are defined by information stored about each pixel that comprises the image, such as color and location. Because of this, rastor graphics are extremely detailed, such as a high-resolution photograph. Vector graphics, on the other hand, are more simple looking because each pixel cannot be altered to a specific color definition.
  
  

Vector Graphic Supported Design Programs

• Any program that supports illustration and animation is likely vector graphic based, including Adobe Illustrator and Corel DRAW. Programs that support photo editing are likely rastor based, such as Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Paint. Vector graphics are typically a .svg format, while rastor graphics are .bit, .jpg, .tiff, and .gif.