In fact, vector files can do lots of things that raster files can’t, making them essential for many creative projects.Ī vector file is a computer graphic that uses mathematical formulas to render its image, instead of using pixel data like a raster file.Ī vector image begins with a point. The most important thing about vector files is that they’re resolution independent, meaning you can make them bigger or smaller without hurting the quality of the image.
A vector file is a graphic based on mathematical curves and paths instead of pixels, like a company logo made in digital illustration software. A raster file is made up of square-shaped pixels, like a photo taken on a digital camera. Luckily, there are only two image file types you really need to know about: raster files and vector files. Whether you know nothing about design or you’re just getting started in the industry, you might struggle to figure out which file format you need for your project. Do you need a vector or raster image for your project? Learn about the features of vector file formats and how they differ from raster files with this in-depth guide.