Remember that using raster effects in a vector software package produces vector/raster hybrid images that may look disappointing once imported into a raster program. That is, it comes with some capability to apply raster effects. Some advanced vector software like Illustrator creates subtle transitions in a single vector-defined geometric object. The restricted color palette in vector graphics programs like Illustrator also reins in the ultimate cost of disk-to-plate printing of signs, stationary, posters, and even business cards. That feature makes Illustrator ideal for making logos and other basic illustrations as well as making wireframes, etchings, and engravings. To make expansion and contraction possible, the vectors in vector art define a geometric object and fill each one with one color. In digital raster art, the artist can soften and blend to create smoother transitions and incorporate photographic elements. Short of buying pricey CAD software, using Adobe Illustrator in combination with a raster graphics program comes about as close as possible to being able to draw anything.įor the artist, rather than painting versus drawing, a clearer distinction might be between Salvador Dali and Vincent van Gogh or a photograph of a cloud in a blue sky versus the way a child might draw it. The difference is that vector images retain their sharpness and saturation as they are expanded because the software automatically increases the number of pixels in the image.

Sometimes people say that you paint in raster and you draw in vector, but don’t let that confuse you. That is, the image becomes grainy or blurry. Adjust the size of raster art enough and the pixels become visible. That’s because raster art contains a specific number of pixels. The pixels of raster graphics are great, but they pixelate. Together vector and raster graphics software makes it possible for artists to draw almost anything they can imagine. Illustrator’s vector graphics fully complements the raster graphics of digital painting or photo editing software.

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