Why I Love Vector Art
Let’s start with a definition:
“Vector graphics or geometric modeling is the use of geometrical primitives such as points, lines, curves, and polygons to represent images in computer graphics.”
Or, in layman’s terms, vector art are drawings based on a bunch of shapes. You’re basically giving the computer instructions on how to render these shapes, such as “draw a circle with radius of x and a line from here to there,” and save these commands, instead of the drawing itself.
What’s great about vector art is that no matter how big (or small) you make it, it won’t blur up. That’s why lots of companies save their logos as vector art; whether will be used on a business card or the world’s largest billboard, they’ll know it’ll come out clean and clear. Another benefit of vector art is that the small file sizes remain the same also regardless of the drawing’s final dimensions.
I’ve also found as a freelance designer, maintaining a library of objects rendered in vector art can speed things up. Last November, I drew a Christmas tree, gift boxes, and other holiday paraphernalia. I used them in at least five different projects, in varying sizes from ID cards to posters. Not having to redraw them was a great time-saver.
Good vector art programs include Illustrator and Inkscape.
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POSTED IN: Freelance Design, Useful Tools
5 opinions for Why I Love Vector Art
Elber
Jan 21, 2007 at 10:34 pm
I love vectors too - I design my logos that way. In fact, I just made one recently that I posted here.
The thing is, I use Photoshop for my vectors - I haven’t really needed much more than the built-in vector tools. If I still work primarily with photos, what would I gain from getting Illustrator or Inkscape?
Vyoma
Jan 21, 2007 at 11:32 pm
Indeed, vectors are the intelligent option. When I (or others who contribute) write at my blog, I create illustrations using Inkscape.
I have even used Vectors to get different sized cliparts that I give away in the design section of my blog.
Rico
Jan 23, 2007 at 3:23 am
Elber: Trust me, you can do a lot more with a vector software’s tools, especially when you’re manipulating the shapes. But that’s just me.
Vyoma:I also like how vector graphics can be a lot smaller than raster (pixel-based) art. Except of course, when you’re talking about this.
Vyoma
Jan 23, 2007 at 11:42 am
Aha! I have seen that post. Yes, they are surrealistic indeed.
Rico
Jan 23, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Jaw-dropping realism indeed. :)
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