2D Design

Raster

Raster images deal with pixels on the screen. It is used mainly for rendering images (e.g. Photographs). Images are represented by “dots” or “pixels” in a set resolution (number of dots/pixels per inch).

---

Raster images are characterized by becoming fuzzy as you zoom/enlarge the image. As the image is represented by dots, as you enlarge the image the dots become bigger.

---

Raster images are mainly used for photographs and image representation

Vector

Vector images use mathematical functions or algorithms to display images on the screen. e.g. a line is represented by two points and an equation to draw the line between points.

---

Vector images are characterized by clean lines/edges and the ability to zoom in/out as much as you want without distortion, as each image is “drawn” using an algorithm.

---

Vector images are great for logos, signs, fancy text and design files.