Vector Images

What Are Vector Images?

Vector images use co-ordinate points and attributes to define an image. A set of connected points form a shape which have attributes to define things like color. Since these points are based on co-ordinates, they can be resized without loss of detail.

Raster vs. Vector Images

Raster images are fixed-dimension pixel-based images. The difference between raster and vector images can be clearly seen in the example below.

Where Are Vector Images Used?

Vector images are best suited for applications that might require dynamic image sizing. Some examples include: web browsers, mobile apps, user interfaces, logos, and large format print mediums, and logos.

How Are Vector Images Made?

Vector graphics are made using illustration software. Some of the most popular illustration softwares include: Adobe Illustator, Affinity Designer, and Inkscape.

How To Convert Raster Images Into Vector Images

Sometimes all you have is a low-resolution, pixelated (raster) image. Perhaps you lost the source files, the original creator of the image has vanished, or you never had access to the source files to begin with. What if you need a raster image in a larger size? You could scale the image up with image editing software, but too much scaling will make the image look even more pixelated. This is where scalable graphics come into play.

Three Methods for Converting Raster Images Into Vector Images

1. Using a web-based vectorizer service
2. Using a built-in illustration software tool
3. Tracing or recreating the image in vector

Using A Web-based Vectorizer Service

The most straight forward method is to upload raster image files to vectormagic.com for conversion. However, using this method, the results are only as good as the supplied image! Pixelated raster images can be difficult for the service to convert accurately.

Using A Built-in Illustration Software Tool

This method is similar to using a web-based service. Instead of uploading an image to a website, the raster file is converted locally within the illustration software. The potential benefit of this method is more control over the end result.

Tracing Or Recreating The Image In Vector

Depending on your dedication and skill level, this method can produce the best results. This method can provide the greatest level of control over the vectorized image. This involves loading the raster file into the illustration software and manually tracing over the image to recreate it in vector.