There are two primary types of images used in print and other applications:
Pixel-based raster images and line-based vector images. The unique
characteristics of each type of image dictate how each should be used. This
guide will help you understand the difference between the two - and the
proper application of both.
Raster Images
Raster images, probably the more well-known of the two types, are the
common, pixel-based images that we see all over the internet. Raster images
are the types of images you get from a digital camera or the camera on your
phone; the same goes for images pulled from documents via scanner. The
common image file types on the internet – jpgs, gifs, and the like – are
generally raster images. Any image that’s made up of pixels – the tiny,
individually-colored units that combine to make the whole image – is raster.
This is why these images blur when enlarged: A close view of the image
reveals the individual pixels that make the image and breaks the appearance
of a smooth transition across these pixels. This blurring is called
pixelating. We’ll revisit this idea later.
Raster images are still the best form of image for photographs, especially
regarding editing functions from software like Photoshop, designed to work
well with the pixel-based format. It’s possible, of course, to print raster
images at different sizes, but the pixel count in the image needs to meet a
minimum that correlates with the size of the piece being printed.
Vector Images
Vector images are different from raster images. First, they aren’t made up
of pixels. Vector images, which are generally made or translated through
illustration software, are actually made up of individual lines and shapes
(called objects) that combine to make a whole image, through mathematical
calculations that define the shapes and directions of the lines.
Vector art is not created through a camera; instead, it’s created through
illustration software like Adobe Illustrator and
Corel Draw
and commonly saved as .ai, .pdf, .eps and .svg files.
Although vector images lack the complex details that you can create with
photographs (raster images), vector art shines in it’s own way: Recall the
earlier reference to pixelation. You won’t find any in a vector image, no
matter what size the image is stretched or shrunk to.
This is why vector images are an excellent format for the creation of
printed products such as
postcards,
brochures,
banners, and
signs. Logos or illustrations as a vector image can be stretched to any size for
printing without losing image quality or ever seeing any blur or pixelation,
which means your graphics will look great regardless of whether they’re
printed on small business cards or jumbo-sized banners.
Vectors, for this reason, especially shine for the creation of company
logos, because one image file can be used for any application, regardless of
size or printing medium.
The Bottom Line
In short, raster images are best for detailed images like photographs and
can include more varied shades of colors and gradients as they utilize
pixels. Raster images need to be printed in the appropriate size and medium
for the image.
Vector images don’t utilize pixels, work well for things like logos and
illustrations, and can be printed at any size. Vector images scale
infinitely, which makes them the perfect format for company logos that will
be applied on various mediums.
Knowing the difference can help you understand the best choice of image for
any printing project your business takes on. Your U.S. Press account manager
can help you with any further questions or details regarding raster images,
vector images, and how to use both to the best benefit of your company.