Bitmap Vs Vector

Raster graphic

A raster graphic (JPEG, PNG, and WEBP),also known as a bitmap image is a type of digital image composed of pixels arranged in a grid. Each pixel contains specific color and brightness information, resulting in a detailed representation of an image. Raster graphics are resolution-dependent, meaning their quality is determined by the number of pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI) when displayed or printed.

Vector image

A vector image is a type of digital image created using mathematical equations and geometric shapes. Unlike raster graphics, vector images are resolution-independent, meaning they can be scaled to any size without losing quality or clarity. They are composed of points, lines, curves, and polygons, which are defined by their mathematical properties rather than pixels. Vector graphics are commonly used for logos, illustrations, and other graphics that require scalability and flexibility.

Example

Imagine you want to draw a picture of a car. If you draw it on a piece of paper using pencils, crayons, or markers, that’s like a raster graphic. Each tiny square on the paper is a pixel, and you need to color in each pixel individually to create the picture. If you want to make the car bigger or smaller, you have to redraw it all over again and color in all the pixels.

Now, let’s say you have a different way to draw the car. Instead of using pixels, you use shapes like circles, squares, and triangles. You can describe the car by saying, “The car has four wheels, two windows, and a rectangle for the body.” With this description, you can draw the car at any size, big or small, without losing any details or becoming blurry. That’s like a vector image!

Vector images use math and shapes to describe the picture, so you can easily change their size or make modifications without losing any quality. They are great for things like logos and illustrations because they can be resized and adjusted easily without becoming pixelated or blurry.

Use case scenarios for raster graphics and vector images:

Raster Graphics:

1. Photography: Raster graphics are commonly used for photographs as they can capture and represent the intricate details and color variations of the subject.
2. Web Design: Raster graphics are widely used in web design for creating banners, buttons, and backgrounds. They provide visually appealing elements that enhance the overall user experience.
3. Digital Art: Raster graphics are often used by digital artists to create digital paintings, illustrations, and complex visual effects due to their ability to depict fine details and textures.
4. Photo Editing: Raster graphics software, such as Adobe Photoshop, is extensively used for editing and manipulating photographs by adjusting colors, removing blemishes, or applying artistic effects.

Vector Images:

1. Logos and Branding: Vector images are ideal for logos and branding materials as they can be easily scaled to different sizes without loss of quality. This ensures that the logo looks sharp and clear on various platforms and promotional materials.
2. Illustrations and Icons: Vector images are commonly used for creating illustrations, icons, and infographics. Their scalability allows these graphics to be used across different media, such as websites, print materials, and mobile applications.
3. Typography and Fonts: Vector graphics are utilized in designing fonts and typography elements, providing flexibility in resizing and maintaining crispness at any scale.
4. Product Design: Vector images are used in product design to create mockups, prototypes, and technical drawings. They allow designers to easily modify and adjust shapes, dimensions, and proportions as needed.