There are two ways in which computer graphics can be generated by a computer: as vectors or as bitmaps. Bitmapped graphics 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. Bitmapped images are typical continuous tone images such as photographs. Vector based images 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 formulas, the quality of such images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the image is created. If an image 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 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.
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 down-sampling), it is not possible to improve the resolution or quality of a bitmap.
As regards conversion from one graphic type to another, converting a vector image to a bitmap is far easier than doing the reverse. The process of converting vectors to bitmaps is called rasterization and is usually very successful and most software will allow you to specify the quality of the resulting bitmap. To convert a bitmap into a vector, 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 contains a 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. - 16069
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 formulas, the quality of such images is not fixed but, rather, depends on the environment in which the image is created. If an image 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 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.
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 down-sampling), it is not possible to improve the resolution or quality of a bitmap.
As regards conversion from one graphic type to another, converting a vector image to a bitmap is far easier than doing the reverse. The process of converting vectors to bitmaps is called rasterization and is usually very successful and most software will allow you to specify the quality of the resulting bitmap. To convert a bitmap into a vector, 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 contains a 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. - 16069
About the Author:
The author is a trainer and developer with Macresource Computer Solutions, an independent computer training company offering Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator training courses at their central London training centre.
