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 images can be created in a number of programs. Firstly, you can use specialist graphics programs like AutoCad. Then we have the general purpose drawing programs such as Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. And, finally, there are many non-graphic programs which nevertheless inlude drawing tools. This last category would include the Microsoft Office suite of programs.
Since vector images are essential mathematical formulae, the quality of these images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the drawing is created. If a vector graphic 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 images, bitmapped images are often acquired rather than created from scratch. Photos are typical loaded onto a computer via a digital camera or a scanner. As far as manipulating bitmapped images, the king of the arena 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 contenders are 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, drawing programs or bitmap editing programs? Well, we find that on our Adobe training courses, most delegates seem to find bitmapped images easier to work with. This may simply be because of the fact that working with rich media is so visually appealing. For this reason we normally advice that delegates who plan to undergo Adobe Creative Suite training begin with a Photoshop course before tackling Adobe Illustrator. - 20896
Vector images can be created in a number of programs. Firstly, you can use specialist graphics programs like AutoCad. Then we have the general purpose drawing programs such as Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW. And, finally, there are many non-graphic programs which nevertheless inlude drawing tools. This last category would include the Microsoft Office suite of programs.
Since vector images are essential mathematical formulae, the quality of these images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the drawing is created. If a vector graphic 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 images, bitmapped images are often acquired rather than created from scratch. Photos are typical loaded onto a computer via a digital camera or a scanner. As far as manipulating bitmapped images, the king of the arena 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 contenders are 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, drawing programs or bitmap editing programs? Well, we find that on our Adobe training courses, most delegates seem to find bitmapped images easier to work with. This may simply be because of the fact that working with rich media is so visually appealing. For this reason we normally advice that delegates who plan to undergo Adobe Creative Suite training begin with a Photoshop course before tackling Adobe Illustrator. - 20896
About the Author:
The The writer of this article is a trainer and developer with Macresource Computer Solutions, a UK IT training company offering Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator Classes in London and throughout the UK.
No comments:
Post a Comment