Vector Images vs. Rastor Images
Vector Images
Vector graphics use mathematical calculations to draw shapes using points, lines or curves. So for instance, a 1” x 1” square at 300 dpi will have 300 pixels of information for a raster image, and a vector square will contain just four points, one for each corner. The vector image “connects the points” and fills in the rest.
The most common types of vector graphics are fonts and logos. Vector file format extensions include: eps, ai and pdf.
Rastor Images
A raster graphic is an image made of little squares of color information called pixels. The most common raster graphic is a photograph. These hundreds or even millions of pixels (which are very tiny) when viewed on screen, produce very vivid and dynamic images.
Raster file format extensions include: jpg/jpeg, psd, png, tiff, bmp and gif.
Pros and Cons
Raster Image Advantages
-Raster images provide Much Detail
-Raster images provide the Most Color
Raster Image Disadvantages
-Raster images are Blurry When Enlarged: The biggest downfall to raster images is that they become [grainy or jagged] when enlarged. Basically it is a finite square and as you enlarge it you begin to see that square.
-Raster images can be Large File Sizes
Vector Image Advantages
-Vector images are Scalable: Vector files can be scaled up or down as much as you want without losing any image quality.
-Vector images have Smaller File Sizes:Since there are no pixels of information in vector files, just mathematical points, the file size can remain small even when scaled very large.
-Vector images are Editable: You can modify individual elements without affecting other objects in the image.
Vector Image Disadvantages
-Vector images have limited detail: Vector details are not ideal for complex blends or shades like that in a photograph.
-Vector images use limited effects: Vector images don't have the range of effects that can be applied like that of a photograph.