Vector files vs Image files
What is Vector Artwork?
Vector graphics are comprised of paths that have starting and ending points, as well as other points, curves and angles along the way. A path can be a line, a square, a triangle or a curvy shape. These paths can be used to create simple drawings or complex diagrams.
Vector files can be created using a variety of software,including:
Why do you need Vector Artwork?
Because of the way images are defined, vector artwork is created with lines and can be sized up or down without any loss of clarity or resolution. In contrast, bit-mapped designs look pixelated when they are enlarged. Laser engraving machines need lines to follow.
Can’t I just save a design in the .ai or .eps format?
A graphic designer can convert your file to vector but just saving a design as another file type will not make it vector artwork. The design has to be created in a specific program (see above).
What are graphic file formats and how are they used?
Vector files
Image files
Vector format, the propriety and native format of CorelDRAW
Low resolution raster format for viewing art and often used for photographs online; cannot have transparent backgrounds
Vector format, supports transparency the propriety format of Adobe Illustrator
Similar to .jpgs but can have transparent backgounds; are generally larger and higher quality; good for website logos
XML based vector format for logos, diagrams, maps, websites and many digital applications
Low resolution raster format of up to 256 colours RGB; great for images with a few solid colours, no gradients or neutral colours
Vector format containing PostScript code used for storing font and vector images, used for transferring between various graphics applications
A large raster file that is primarily used in printing; because of size is generally not used on websites