Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Vectors vs. bitmaps

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Vector images “Object-oriented” graphics Use points and curves to define shapes Objects remain independent and can be edited at any time. Can be scaled to any size without loss of detail File size usually smaller than bitmap files

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Vector image, object selected This point can be edited to change the shape of the curve.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Vector image, curve edited The point has been moved and adjacent line segments altered. No other objects in the image are affected.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Vector image: 100% In print, these curves would be absolutely smooth. “Jaggies” are caused by the computer screen resolution.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Vector image: 1200% Curves remain smooth because they are defined by math equations, not by pixels on a grid.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Bitmap images Composed of collections of bits or pixels Size-specific; appearance affected by color depth and output resolution Bitmaps don’t scale well. Edit only groups of pixels, not objects Realistic reproduction of photos, paintings File sizes can become very large.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Bitmap with rectangle selection Note that an area of the image is selected, not a specific object.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Selection filled with color Editing applies only to pixels within the selection, not to entire ‘objects.’

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Bitmap image at 100%

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Bitmap image at 800% Pixels that compose the image become very obvious as the image is enlarged.

Multi-media graphics--JOUR 205 Where bitmaps really shine With bitmap images, you can achieve realistic effects that would be very difficult or impossible with vector images.