Vector Graphics Detailed
A common issue that we see at The Thomas Group is a lack of “Vector” graphics for things like logos and similar artwork that is desired to be printed, especially in a large format. For many people, they have no idea what the difference is between a “Vector” graphic and the more common “Raster” graphic, but the differences between the two can mean printed work that looks pristine versus something that looks pixelated. Below are some key characteristics of vector and raster graphics but if you have any questions feel free to contact us!
What is a vector graphic? What is a raster graphic?
A raster graphic is a graphic that is pixel based. A pixel is a very small square that is a specific color and/or shade and they are what create different colors on the screen you are looking at right now. If you were to zoom in very far on an image, you would start to see these individual pixels. In fact, most images that we see on our phone or our tv screen are made up of MILLIONS of pixels! The downside to raster based images is that if we want to enlarge them, say for printing purposes, the pixels can only be enlarged so much before you can start to see them. This is what happens when you see a “pixelated” image…the illusion of all these pixels creating a crisp/clean image begins to breakdown which results in a low quality image.
Unlike raster graphics, vector graphics are not based on pixels but mathematical formulas that define things like curves, circles, paths, points, lines, polygons, and rectangles. Because of this, a vector can be resized infinitely without a loss in quality and their file size tends to be much smaller since it doesn’t have to keep track of millions of individual pixels. However, because of their nature, vector graphics are best used for things like logos, text, shapes, etc. but are not the best option for things like photographs.
How can you tell if you have a vector graphic?
To the naked eye, it can sometimes be impossible to determine if a graphic is vector or raster based. However, there are a few ways to find out if you have a vector file or not:
Vector files are primarily in .svg, .eps, .ai, and sometimes .pdf file formats
Vector files CAN’T be .jpg, .png, .psd, .tiff, and certain .pdf file formats
When using the proper program, you will not see the individual pixels of the artwork when zoomed in if it is a vector file
Vector files can be enlarged without a loss in visual quality
What if I don’t have a vector file?
If you don’t have a vector file, there are a few options that you have to ensure that your artwork prints in a high quality:
Supply a high resolution raster file
Have The Thomas Group create a vector version of your artwork