What’s a Vector?

Vector illustrations list of advantages is a long one. Here are just a few:

Vector graphics is the use of geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and shapes, which are all based on mathematical equations, to represent shapes in computer graphics.

Vector illustrations (unlike raster or pixel images) can be scaled and distorted infinitely without loss of quality because it is based on points rather then pixel information. That means that the same file can be printed as large as a billboard or as small as business card without increasing file size or decreasing image quality. The quantity of data information in these illustrations remains comparably manageable and small, so a great deal of data information needs little memory. This makes them very practical for rapid online transfer.

Another key advantage to vector illustration is isolated elements within an illustration. Any component within a vector graphic can be grouped separately within an illustration, making it very useful for designers and animators to manipulate an image. To show you what I mean here I have grouped the background separately from the character:

Because the elements here are grouped separately they can also be manipulated separately to infinite degrees, as a simple example of this I have scaled the character and moved him around the composition of the background:

Because of infinite scaling and object isolation there are virtually endless possibilities to how vector images can be manipulated to suit anyones needs. The bonus to this is how easy vectors are to edit. For example here with a couple clicks of the mouse in adobe illustrator I have manipulated the colours of both the character and the background individually to create a whole new look to the piece:

This has been a brief intro to what vectors are and how they are useful. Stay tuned for more in depth looks into this wonderful and exciting medium.

- Jayesh