Raster images are not always ideal for logos or illustrations because they can't be easily enlarged without degrading in quality. When to avoid: You should avoid using raster files when you need a graphic that must be scaled up without losing quality. Raster files are also the best choice for images used on the internet. Use raster graphics when you need a photo or an image with complex colors, gradients, and shading. When to use: Raster files are best used for photographs, complex graphics, and digital paintings. When you zoom in on a raster image, you will eventually see the individual pixels that make up the image.Įxamples of raster file formats: JPEG, PNG, GIF, HEIC, TIFF, PSD, Webp, HDRI, EXIF, JPEG 2000, JPEG XR, DPX, PPM, PCX, PGM, ECW The more pixels there are, the higher the resolution, and the better the quality of the image. The number of pixels in an image is its resolution. Raster files are made up of pixels (hence the alternative name 'bitmap'), which are tiny squares of color. Many digital cameras automatically take and save photos as raster files, which is also the format you typically see images in online. Most digital photographs are raster files. Raster images are the most prevalent form of digital imaging. More about vector files… Raster files (AKA Bitmap files) Scalability - You can make a vector image as big or tiny as you like without losing quality because vector graphics are inherently highly scalable.Ĭompatibility - Vectors are widely compatible, and can be opened by most design software programs.įile size - Because vectors don't use pixels, they have relatively small file sizes. Vector files are better suited for logos, illustrations, and flat graphics. The main disadvantage of vector files is that they cannot realistically recreate complex images like photographs. When to avoid: Avoid using a vector file if you are going to add a raster image to the vector artwork.Ī camera can't produce a vector image so you should avoid using raster images within a vector file. They are also a good option if the file size is a concern, as they are typically much smaller than other types of image files. If you need an image that can be scaled up or down without losing quality, vector files are a good choice. They're also used in lower thirds for videos, web-based objects, and 2D or 3D computer animation rendering. The small file size and scalability of vector graphics make them ideal for digital printing from business cards to billboards. When to use: Illustrations, logos, print work, posters, banners, signs, vehicle wraps, website graphics, and packaging. This makes them infinitely scalable- meaning they can be sized up or down without losing any quality.Įxamples of vector file formats: PDF, EPS, AI, SVG, STL, Asymptote, INDD, DXF, STEP, DWF, SKP, IGES, PS, 3DS, EMF, Collada, FLT, JT, PRC, 3DXML, MB. The mathematical equations place lines and shapes on a two-dimensional or three-dimensional grid. They do not use pixels, instead, they are composed of mathematical equations that describe both the shape and color of an image. Vector files are typically used for design purposes. The best file format depends on the application and the unique situation. it is important to note that it is almost impossible to achieve a universally 'perfect' file format. In most cases, these three factors affect each other. and more.įile size - storage size and how it can affect page loading times and other storage issues. It is important to note how clear and detailed the image is after being resized.Ĭompatibility - compatibly with software, transparency, animation, color modes. Scalability - the flexibility to resize images to a variety of sizes. When deciding on a file type, there are three factors to consider: In this guide, we'll take a look at the two image file formats to help you make an informed decision. Most image file types fall into two categories - Vector files and Raster files.
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