What is the difference between a vector image and a raster image?

Hello everyone!

Have you ever downloaded an image from the Internet only to find it was of very poor quality? When you tried to enlarge it, the picture became even worse? I once faced this frustrating situation myself. I couldn't figure out how to improve the quality of illustrations so that when I uploaded them to my social media page, they looked nice and professional.

The answer is quite simple: what I downloaded was a raster image.

What is a Raster Image?

A raster image, also known as a bitmap, is made up of tiny squares called pixels. Each pixel contains color information, and together they form the complete picture. The resolution of a raster image is determined by its pixel dimensions—meaning that if you try to resize or enlarge it beyond its original dimensions, you'll notice that it starts to lose clarity and becomes pixelated or blurry. Common formats for raster images include JPEG, PNG, and GIF.

Raster images are perfect for photographs because they capture intricate details and complex color gradients well. However, their biggest downside is their lack of scalability; enlarging these images without losing quality can be challenging.

What is a Vector Image?

In contrast to raster images, vector drawings are created using mathematical equations rather than pixels. This means that no matter how much you resize a vector image—whether it's enlarged or reduced—it will always remain sharp and clear because it's based on paths defined by points, lines, curves, and shapes rather than fixed pixels.

Vector graphics are incredibly versatile and ideal for logos, icons, illustrations like mine in Adobe Illustrator as well as any design work requiring high-quality graphics at various sizes without any loss in resolution.

Converting Raster Images to Vector Images

If you've got your heart set on turning a raster illustration into a vector one (perhaps due to its unique design), there are two primary methods:

Tracing: Many graphic design software programs like Adobe Illustrator have built-in tools that allow users to convert raster images into vectors through tracing. This process involves using algorithms that analyze the colors in each area of the bitmap image before creating corresponding vector paths.

Automatic Tracing: With options such as "Image Trace" in Illustrator

(which offers various presets), you can achieve quick conversions with adjustable settings for detail levels.

Manual Tracing: For more control over your artwork's final look, you can use drawing tools within Illustrator (like the Pen Tool) to trace over parts of your existing illustration manually.

Re-creation: Another effective method involves manually redrawing your illustration from scratch using vector software like Adobe Illustrator.

Although this requires time and skillful artistry, this approach allows complete freedom over every aspect of your design, resulting in an entirely original piece tailored precisely according to your vision!

You can see examples of my own vector illustrations drawn from scratch on the "My Works" page—feel free to check them out! You'll even find some available for free download if you'd like add them into your projects!

Here’s one example I'd love to share with you—a playful vector illustration showing a boy on his skateboard! On the left side is my initial sketch while on the right side showcases how it looks after being filled with vibrant colors.

Thank you so much for taking time out of your day reading this post!

If you're inspired by my work or have any feedback you'd love  share please feel free leave me some kind words—I cherish all encouragement!

Warm wishes,

Yuliia 😊