There are two ways in which computer graphics can be generated on a computer: as vectors or as bitmaps. Bitmapped images 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. Bitmaps are typical continuous tone images such as photographs. Vectors 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 basically mathematical formulas, the quality of these images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the image is created. If an image is being displayed on the screen, it will be rendered at screen resolution; if it is output on a high resolution printer, it will be printed at high resolution; and so on.
In contrast to vector graphics, bitmapped images are typically acquired rather than created from scratch. Photos are often loaded onto a computer from a digital camera or from a scanner. As far as manipulating bitmapped images, the most widely used software has got to be Adobe Photoshop. This powerhouse program is available in a few different flavours such as Photoshop Elements as well as the main program: Photoshop CS4. Other bitmap editing 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 one is easier to learn, vector drawing programs or bitmap editing programs? Well, when we run Adobe training courses, we have noticed that most delegates seem to find bitmapped images easier to work with. This may of course just be because they find working with rich media more visually appealing. However, we will normally advice delegates who plan to take Adobe Creative Suite training to start with a Photoshop course before tackling Adobe Illustrator. - 15485
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 basically mathematical formulas, the quality of these images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the image is created. If an image is being displayed on the screen, it will be rendered at screen resolution; if it is output on a high resolution printer, it will be printed at high resolution; and so on.
In contrast to vector graphics, bitmapped images are typically acquired rather than created from scratch. Photos are often loaded onto a computer from a digital camera or from a scanner. As far as manipulating bitmapped images, the most widely used software has got to be Adobe Photoshop. This powerhouse program is available in a few different flavours such as Photoshop Elements as well as the main program: Photoshop CS4. Other bitmap editing 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 one is easier to learn, vector drawing programs or bitmap editing programs? Well, when we run Adobe training courses, we have noticed that most delegates seem to find bitmapped images easier to work with. This may of course just be because they find working with rich media more visually appealing. However, we will normally advice delegates who plan to take Adobe Creative Suite training to start with a Photoshop course before tackling Adobe Illustrator. - 15485
About the Author:
Author is a developer and trainer with Macresource Computer Solutions, a UK IT training company offering Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator Classes at their central London training centre.
