Some files take up additional data and use higher resolutions, while others take up less storage, but tend to be lower in resolution and quality. While all of these display pixels, each file format has its own distinct display settings. Raster files are saved in various formats: Avoid using them to design logos and icons. To edit these images, you need access to raster-based programs like Adobe Photoshop or Shutterstock Editor. For design work, it’s best to use these programs for photography and imagery only. And, when these images are uploaded online, the end result is a raster image. When you take a picture with a phone or a camera, the image is recorded as pixel data. Raster images are used in photography and digital applications. Tip: You can quickly cut down file size by reducing the resolution to 72 PPI for online images. An illustration with higher DPI (dots per inch) or PPI (pixels per inch) will be larger in size and data, which can be worrisome when there are limits to image storage or restrictions on uploaded file sizes. Image via NataliaKo.ĭue to the abundance of pixels in a raster image, the file sizes can be substantial. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to only downsize a raster image to avoid heavy pixelation. Obvious pixels make an image look unprofessional and unsightly. This is a key indicator of a raster-based image. Notice how the edges of the tropical pattern below become pixelated and jagged when magnified. When you zoom in on an image, the pixels become more apparent while the details of the image become blurry. The more pixels in an image the higher the quality, and vice versa. These pixels contain bits of color and, when combined, they build images. If you surf the web, chances are you’ve seen a raster image. Raster, or bitmap, images consist of tiny squares called pixels. Do you use raster or vector images? Raster images are made up of pixels, while vector images are formed by mathematical curves and paths.īeing comfortable with the ins and outs of both formats and how they translate when exported is an essential skill for every designer.

With so many images to choose from online, it can be overwhelming to determine which file formats to begin with. Do you know the difference between a raster and vector file? This quick overview will help you differentiate for an improved design workflow.

Raster vs vector