4 RastervsVector
4 RastervsVector
Raster
Objectives:
For vector image editing, use either Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape. Either program will also allow users to
import raster images into their vector files.
File Formats:
• Illustrator (.AI)*
• Encapuslated PostScript (.EPS)*
• PostScript (.PS)*
• Scalable Vector Graphic (.SVG)
* Both Illustrator AI and EPS formats allow users to place raster images within a vector file. The raster
image is not converted to vector format; rather it is simply embedded in the vector file, and is rendered in
raster format.
Vector/Raster
When and Why?
Vector programs
make short work of If you are working with mainly solid color objects,
manipulated text and
any solid color
manipulated text or many small objects, the clear answer is
work. that a VECTOR program will save you time.
If you are working with complicated drop shadows, or
other 3D effects, texture or photographs, RASTER is the
correct choice.
http://www.webreference.com/graphics/column31/4.html
Creating Vectors - TRACE
When you have learned to work well with a vector program, and are comfortable
drawing and editing anchor points in paths, you can import the raster image and
place it on its own layer.
1. Reduce the opacity of the layer to fade the image back (if available), or
draw a semitransparent white rectangle over the image.
2. Lock the layer containing the image to be traced.
3. Trace the objects on a new layer.
Note: Incorporate the raster image into the vector image if you are not going to need to
resize the image.
Properties of a Vector
Path/Stroke: outline of a shape
Anchor Point: strokes are created through a series of connected and unconnected
anchor points