Raster vs Vector Images Quiz

Raster Images

• Composed of pixels, which are tiny squares that determine color and position.
• Common file formats include JPG, PNG, and GIF.
• Ideal for photographs and detailed images with various colors.
• Quality degrades and becomes pixelated when enlarged.

Vector Images

• Defined by mathematical formulas for shapes and lines, allowing infinite scalability.
• Common formats include EPS, PDF, and AI.
• Best suited for logos, illustrations, and text due to their smaller file sizes.

PDF (Portable Document Format)

• Capable of containing both vector and raster elements.
• Preserves fonts, images, and layout uniformity across different devices.
• Frequently utilized for document sharing and printing, with optional password protection for security.

EPS (Encapsulated PostScript)

• A vector format often used in professional printing.
• Can include both vector and raster elements, supporting CMYK color mode for accurate printing.
• Compatible with most graphic design software, though may need specialized software to view.

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics)

• A text-based vector format that allows scalability without loss of quality.
• Easily editable and supports animation and interactivity.
• Common applications include logos, icons, web graphics, and data visualization.

TIFF (Tagged Image File Format)

• A raster format that retains high image quality but produces large file sizes.
• Capable of supporting layers and transparency, suitable for high-quality printing and publishing.
• Not recommended for web use due to the excessive file size.

JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)

• A raster format employing lossy compression to reduce file sizes, resulting in some quality loss.
• Commonly used for photographs and intricate images, especially in digital sharing.

Lossy vs. Lossless Compression

• Lossy Compression: Permanently removes data to decrease file size; common examples include JPEG. Best for photos where some quality loss is acceptable.
• Lossless Compression: Keeps all original data intact while reducing file size, resulting in larger files than lossy formats; examples include PNG and TIFF. Ideal for simple graphics and when precise data retention is required.
• Key differences involve quality preservation, file size distinctions, and reversibility of the compression process.

GIF (Graphics Interchange Format)

• A raster format that uses lossless compression and supports animations and transparency.
• Limited to 256 colors, yielding smaller file sizes, making it popular for web graphics.

PNG (Portable Network Graphics)

• A raster format that facilitates lossless compression and supports transparency.
• Larger file sizes compared to JPG, maintaining better image quality than GIF.
• Well-suited for web graphics and logos.

Choosing the Right Format

• Evaluate the intended purpose, whether for web, print, or editing.
• Consider constraints on file size and the need for transparency.
• Assess the complexity of the image and scalability requirements.

File Formats in a PostScript Environment

• PostScript is a page description language utilized for printing.
• Formats like EPS and PDF are compatible with PostScript environments.
• TIFF is also compatible, ensuring quality preservation, while JPG, GIF, and PNG may need conversion for compatibility.

Practical Applications

• Logos and Branding: Vector formats such as EPS, PDF, and SVG.
• Photography: Using raster formats like TIFF and JPG.
• Web Graphics: Implementing formats such as PNG, GIF, JPG, and SVG.
• Print Publications: Favoring formats like TIFF, EPS, and PDF.