Do you want to create high-quality images in huge sizes? Take advantage vector graphics and make zoom blur a thing of the past.
Unlike raster graphics, where pictures are created from pixels, vector graphics display pictures using dots and lines. Images created in vector graphics may be inferior to raster ones in detail, but retain their quality at any magnification. Thanks to this remarkable property, the vector has gained popularity in architecture, design, large-format advertising and other industries where high precision is required.
If you need a universally sized image that can fit both on an A4 sheet of paper and on a billboard, then vector graphics will become great solution. Decide on the object of your creativity, and we will help you choose the perfect tool.
Tools for creating vector graphics
Today there are many tools for creating vector images. Each one is unique in its own way and suits a specific skill level.
To help you do right choice, we have collected best editors into one archive, where each material was added detailed description, screenshots and video tutorials. Here you can read user reviews, compare ratings and download a suitable program for creating vector graphics via torrent or file-sharing services (MEGA or Yandex.Disk).
3. The concept of three-dimensional graphics. Editors used to create 3D images
4. The concept of color space, basic color models (RGB, CMYK)
5. The concept of graphic format. Basic graphic formats (GIF, JPEG, PNG), their distinctive features, Advantages and disadvantages
Literature
1. Definition of vector and raster graphics, main differences, advantages and disadvantages
Vector graphics
Describes images using straight and curved lines called vectors, as well as parameters describing colors and placement. For example, an image of a tree leaf is described by points through which a line passes, thereby creating the outline of the leaf. The leaf color is determined by the color of the outline and the area within that outline. When editing vector graphic elements, the parameters of straight and curved lines that describe the shape of these elements change. You can move elements, change their size, shape and color, but this will not affect the quality of their visual presentation. Vector graphics are independent of resolution, i.e. can be displayed in a variety of output devices with different resolutions without loss of quality. Vector representation consists of describing image elements with mathematical curves, indicating their colors and occupancy. Another advantage is high-quality scaling in any direction. Increasing or decreasing objects is done by increasing or decreasing the corresponding coefficients in mathematical formulas. Unfortunately, the vector format becomes disadvantageous when transferring images with a lot of shades or fine details (for example, photographs). After all, every smallest highlight in this case will be represented by a complex mathematical formula or a set of graphic primitives, each of which is a formula. The most popular vector editors are Corel Draw, Corel XARA and Adobe Illustration.
Raster graphics
If in vector graphics the basic element of the image is a line, then in raster graphics it is points called pixels located on a grid. Raster graphics are resolution-dependent because information describing the image is attached to a grid of a specific size. When editing raster graphics, the quality of its presentation may change. In particular, resizing raster graphics can cause the edges of the image to become frayed as the pixels are redistributed on the grid. Outputting raster graphics to devices with a lower resolution than the resolution of the image itself will reduce its quality. The basis of the raster representation of graphics is a pixel (dot) indicating its color. When describing, for example, a red ellipse on a white background, you have to indicate the color of each point of both the ellipse and the background. The image is represented as a large number of dots - the more there are, the visually better the image and the larger the file size. Those. the same picture can be presented with better or worse quality in accordance with the number of dots per unit of length - resolution (usually dots per inch - dpi or pixels per inch - ppi). In addition, quality is also characterized by the number of colors and shades that each point in the image can take on. The more shades an image is characterized by, the more digits are required to describe them. Red can be color number 001, or it can be color number 00000001. Thus, the higher the quality of the image, the larger the file size. Raster representation is typically used for photographic-type images with a lot of detail or shading. Unfortunately, scaling such images in any direction usually degrades the quality. When the number of points is reduced, points are lost small parts and the inscriptions are deformed (although this may not be so noticeable if the visual size of the picture itself is reduced - i.e., the resolution is maintained). Adding pixels leads to a deterioration in the sharpness and brightness of the image, because new points have to be given shades that are average between two or more adjacent colors. Common formats are .tif, .gif, .jpg, .png, .bmp, .pcx, etc. The most popular software Raster image creators are: Painter Company Fractal Design, FreeHand by Macromedia, Fauve Matisse, PixelPaint Pro by Pixel Resources, and Photoshop by Adobe.
Thus, the choice of raster or vector format depends on the goals and objectives of working with the image. If you need photographic color accuracy, then the raster format is preferable. It is more convenient to present logos, diagrams, and design elements in vector. It is clear that in both raster and vector representation, graphics (as well as text) are displayed on a monitor screen or printing device in the form of a collection of points. On the Internet, graphics are presented in one of raster formats, understood by browsers without installing additional modules - GIF, JPG, PNG.
Due to the features of image representation described above, for each type you have to use a separate graphic editor - raster or vector. Of course, they have common features - the ability to open and save files in different formats, use tools with the same names (pencil, pen, etc.) or functions (select, move, zoom, etc.), choose the desired color or shade.
Development trend graphics programs consists of conquering those areas for which they were not originally intended to work. Thus, raster and vector editors are trying to get closer to each other in terms of the breadth of coverage and power of their tools. Eg, Adobe Photoshop is now not a purely raster editor, and CorelDRAW has quite developed tools for working with raster graphics.
2. Graphic editor, used to create vector and raster images
Raster graphics editors
Microsoft Paint - a simple (or better said, the simplest) editor included as standard operating systems Microsoft. It has a set of simple functions (brush, pencil, eraser, etc.) that allow you to create simple pictures. Unfortunately, it is practically unsuitable for graphics processing. The picture you see on the right is the most this editor can do.
Adobe Photoshop - today this is the most powerful package for professional processing raster graphics. This is a whole complex that has numerous possibilities for modifying a raster image, has a huge range of different filters and effects, and it is possible to connect tools from independent manufacturers.
The package offers, for example, tools for restoring damaged images, retouching photos or creating the most fantastic collages that our imagination can imagine. In general, the potential of this package is truly enormous. Starting from version 5.5 the package includes Adobe program ImageReady, which provides enormous capabilities for processing graphics for the WEB (optimizing images, creating animated gifs, “cutting” pictures into smaller ones, etc.). The motto of the Adobe Photoshop developers - "Camera of your mind" - implies not only technical excellence, but also complete freedom of creativity, to which a person working with this program is simply doomed.
PhotoPaint - another equally well-known graphic editor (from the Corel Draw package) for processing raster graphics, competing with Adobe Photoshop. Everything is also available here necessary tools for graphics processing, various filters, textures. The only difference is in the ease of use, interface and speed of applying filters - the application is a little slower.
Painter - the editor provides excellent opportunities for emulating real drawing tools: graphite, chalk, oil, etc. It also allows you to imitate the surface texture of materials, painting, and create animation. Very useful for designing background images or Web pages in a painting style. Using this program you feel like a real artist.
There are also a number of editors (Microsoft Photo Editor, Microsoft Photo DRAW), which also allow you to implement the simplest tasks, but do not satisfy the needs of professionals.
Vector graphics editors
Adobe Illustrator - the package allows you to create, process and edit vector graphics. In terms of its power, it is equivalent to the Adobe Photoshop raster editor: it has a similar interface, allows you to connect various filters and effects, and understands many graphic formats, even such as .cdr (Corel Draw) and .swf (Flash).
CorelDraw - certainly so famous graphics package I couldn’t do without tools for processing vector graphics. The package is almost as powerful as the graphic editors Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. In addition to vector graphics processing, this package contains a raster graphics processor (Photo Paint), an image tracer, a font editor, texture preparation and barcode creation, as well as huge collections of images (CorelGallery). Adobe Streamline - another Adobe product designed for tracing (translating) raster graphics into vector graphics. This is a small but very useful and powerful product. Particularly useful if you create Web pages using vector graphics, such as Flash technology.
The concept of three-dimensional graphics. Editors used to create 3D images
Three-dimensional graphics (3D, 3 Dimensions, dimensions) - branch of computer graphics covering algorithms and software for operating objects in three-dimensional space, as well as the result of the work of such programs. Mostly used for creating images in architectural visualization, cinema, television, computer games, printed materials, as well as in science.
Raster editors(such as Photoshop and GIMP) use bitmaps to create images.
Modern graphic image editors are used both as drawing programs from scratch and as photo editing programs. Raster editors allow you to edit photographs and images on your computer screen, as well as export graphics to various formats, such as PNG or JPG.
GIMP is free graphics editor, which supports more than thirty image formats, can work with layers, masks, filters and blending modes. The program has a huge range of tools for color correction and processing of any photographs and images.
Thanks to its user-friendly interface and nice features, learning to work in Gimp is very easy.
Features of raster graphics editors
Dynamics of brushes. You can set the degree of shaking of any brush; brushes can respond to the degree of pressure, speed of movement and change their color, size, hardness and opacity in any order.
Native file format XCF supports absolutely all the features of a graphics editor. It can store text, channels, contours, and the image layers themselves.
Convenient work with the clipboard. The contents of the clipboard can be immediately converted either into a new image, or can be used as a brush or fill texture.
GIMP can drag and drop almost anything you see on the screen. You can even drag a color from the toolbar onto an image, which will fill the entire image or a selected portion of it with the selected color.GIMP can archive images on the fly. You just need to add to the file name gz or bz2, and the image will be compressed. In the future, he will be able to open such an image as a normal one.
Support for brushes in Photoshop format provides enormous drawing opportunities to designers and artists.
Editing a selection. After you create a rectangular or elliptical selection, you can edit its dimensions and parameters. You can resize the selected area or, for example, round the edges of the selection.
Moving the canvas. In Canvas, the image can be moved outside the window, which helps you paint around the edges of the images. The image can be moved until the center of the image is in some corner of the canvas. This is very helpful when painting around the edges of a design.
Intuitive tool free allocation. With one tool you can create both a polygonal selection and a freehand selection. All connection points of a selection can be edited before applying the selection.
Parameter "Let loose". It is possible not to completely cancel the previous action, but to partially weaken it by changing the blending mode and opacity.
Alignment tool. Layers can be aligned according to certain parameters that you need. The alignment rule can be a guide, active layer or selection outline.Foreground selection. A very fast and convenient tool that matches the colors that are in the foreground, and then creates a selection of only the foreground. The foreground boundaries can be redefined with a brush at any time.
Localization. GIMP has been translated into many languages. It will automatically detect the operating system language during installation and will immediately begin communicating with you in your native language.
Processing photos is a pleasure. Many plugins have been created to style and improve the quality of photos. GIMP contains a large number of intuitive tools for comfortable work with color and composition of photographs.
Image map. A plugin has been added to the standard build of GIMP that can create HTM markup and the image map itself.
Intelligent discoloration. When desaturating an image, you can select one of the suggested desaturation options.
PSD file format support provides good integration with programs that do not support the GIMP file format.
Paths tool. The tool is used to create pseudo-vector curves. It is implemented, perhaps, much more conveniently than in most paid vector editors.
When cropping an image, you can immediately select rules, which will help you crop the image well. For example, “Rule of the Third”, “Golden Ratio”, “Centered Lines”.
Easily create your own plugins. Any programmer can create an extension in one of three common programming languages that can expand the capabilities of the editor. Therefore, a large number of such plugins have been created.
Actual layer size. When you activate one of the layers, you can see its edges, even if it is outside the working canvas. Optionally, this function can be disabled.
Changeable key combinations. In GIMP you can reassign most keyboard shortcuts. When the dynamic change function is enabled, hotkeys can be changed simply by hovering the cursor over the menu item and pressing the desired key combination.
Vector
Vector formats graphic files. A widely used vector graphics file format isWMF, which is used to store the collection graphic images Microsoft Clip Gallery. Some image processing programs use original formats that are recognized only by the creating program itself (for example, the OpenOffice Draw vector editor saves files in its own formatSXD, and the computer drawing system Compass is in the formatFRM).
Features of vector graphic editors
Vector graphic editors allow you to draw not only flat, but also three-dimensional objects: cube, ball, cylinder and others. When drawing three-dimensional bodies, you can set different lighting modes for the object, the material from which it is made, surface quality and other parameters.
Vector graphic editors are computer drawing systems. In classical drawing, using a pencil, ruler and compass, drawing elements (segments, circles and rectangles) are constructed with the accuracy provided by drawing tools. The use of computer drafting systems allows you to create drawings with much greater accuracy. In addition, computer drawing systems make it possible to measure distances, angles, perimeters and areas of drawn objects (Fig. 1).
|
| Rice. 1. Computer drawing system Compass |
Vector graphic editors are also computer-aided design systems, which are used in production, as they provide the opportunity to implement end-to-end technology for the design and manufacture of parts. Based on computer drawings, control programs are generated for machine tools with numerical program controlled As a result, high-precision parts made of metal, plastic, wood and other materials can be manufactured using computer drawings.
The concept of vector images means absolutely nothing to the vast majority of ordinary PC users. Designers, in turn, are increasingly inclined to use this type of graphics for their projects.
Previously, to work with SVG images, you would have to install one of the specialized desktop solutions like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape on your computer. Now similar tools are available online, without the need to download.
By running the corresponding query on Google, you can get acquainted with a huge number of various online vector editors. But the vast majority of such solutions offer rather meager capabilities and most often do not allow you to work with serious projects. We will consider best services to create and edit SVG images directly in the browser.
Of course, online tools cannot completely replace the corresponding desktop applications, but for most users the offered set of functions will be more than enough.
Method 1: Vectr
A thoughtful vector editor from the creators of the familiar Pixlr service. This tool will be useful for both beginners and experienced users in working with SVG.
Despite the abundance of functions, it will be quite difficult to get lost in the Vectr interface. For beginners there are detailed lessons and extensive instructions for each component of the service. The editor's tools include everything you need to create an SVG image: shapes, icons, frames, shadows, brushes, support for working with layers, etc. You can draw an image from scratch or upload your own.
The export capabilities also include one of Vectr's most distinctive features: support for direct links to the SVG project in the editor. Many resources do not allow you to download vector pictures to themselves directly, but nevertheless allow their remote display. In this case, Vectr can be used as a real SVG hosting, which other services do not allow.
It should be noted that the editor does not always process complex graphics correctly. For this reason, some projects may open in Vectr with errors or visual artifacts.
Method 2: Sketchpad
A simple and convenient web editor for creating SVG images, based on the HTML5 platform. Given the set available tools, it can be argued that the service is intended exclusively for drawing. With Sketchpad you can create beautiful, well-designed pictures, but that's about it.
The tool has a wide range of customizable brushes of various shapes and types, a set of shapes, fonts and stickers for overlay. The editor allows you to fully manipulate layers - control their placement and blending modes. Well, as a bonus, the application is completely translated into Russian, so you shouldn’t have any difficulties mastering it.
Method 3: Method Draw
This web application is designed for basic operations with vector files. Externally, the tool resembles desktop Adobe Illustrator, but in terms of functionality, everything is much simpler here. However, Method Draw also has some features.
In addition to working with SVG images, the editor allows you to import raster images and create vector ones based on them. This can be done by manually tracing contours using a pen. The application contains all the necessary tools for composing vector drawings. There is an expanded library of shapes, a full-color palette and support for keyboard shortcuts.
Method Draw is definitely not suitable for creating serious vector projects - the reason for this is the lack of relevant functions. But thanks to the absence of unnecessary elements and a well-organized workspace, the service can be excellent for quickly editing or fine-tuning simple SVG images.
Method 4: Gravit Designer
Free web-based vector graphics editor for advanced users. Many designers put Gravit on a par with full-fledged desktop solutions, like Adobe Illustrator. The fact is that this tool is cross-platform, that is, it is fully available on all computer operating systems, as well as as a web application.
Gravit Designer is under active development and regularly receives new features, which are already enough for the layout of complex projects.
The editor offers you all kinds of tools for drawing paths, shapes, paths, text overlays, fills, as well as various custom effects. There is an extensive library of figures, thematic pictures and icons. Each element in the Gravit space has a list of properties that can be changed.
All this variety is “packed” into a stylish and intuitive interface, so that any tool is available in just a couple of clicks.
Considering that the service is designed for full-fledged work with vector graphics, it can be safely recommended even to professional designers. With Gravit, you can edit SVG graphics regardless of the platform you're doing it on. For now, this statement applies only to desktop OSes, but soon this editor will appear on mobile devices.
Method 5: Janvas
A popular tool for creating vector graphics among web developers. The service contains a number of drawing tools with highly customizable properties. main feature Janvas - the ability to create interactive SVG images animated with using CSS. And in conjunction with JavaScript, the service allows you to build entire web applications.
In skillful hands, this editor is a truly powerful tool, while a beginner, due to the abundance of all kinds of functions, most likely simply will not understand what’s what.
Yes, the tool, unfortunately, is not free. But this professional solution, which is not useful to everyone.
Method 6: DrawSVG
The most convenient online service that allows webmasters to create high-quality SVG elements for their sites as easily as possible. The editor contains an impressive library of shapes, icons, fills, gradients and fonts.
Using DrawSVG, you can design vector objects of any type and properties, change their parameters and render them as separate images. It is possible to embed third-party multimedia files into SVG: video and audio from a computer or network sources.
This editor, unlike most others, doesn't feel like a browser port of a desktop application. On the left are the main drawing tools, and on the top are the controls. The main space is occupied by the canvas for working with graphics.
Raster graphic editors are designed for image processing, and therefore have approximately the same set of tools, editing tools, effects, and filters. Vector graphics editors are designed for creating images. This text editors, spreadsheets, publishing packages, scientific graphics, computer animation, three-dimensional graphics, CAD, graphic design, etc. In this review we will focus on the last two types of vector editors.
The leader in the group of graphic design programs is the package Corel DRAW. It provides the largest set of operations for working with vector elements and imported raster objects. The created vector objects can be converted into raster graphics files. The package includes a number of applications:
CorelDRAW – vector image editor;
Corel Photo Paint – raster image editor;
Corel R.A.V.E. – vector animation of objects;
Corel Capture – image capture grabber;
Corel Trace is a utility for converting raster images into vector images (vectorizer).
Corel Draw is equipped with next-generation intelligent tools that enable users to solve design problems much faster. The most latest version Corel Draw Graphics Suite saves designers time by giving them tools, which reduce the number of steps required to complete tasks.
Corel Draw has the file extension .cdr. The main advantages of the package are related to the advantages of vector graphics. But it also has its own merits. There are versions of Corel Draw for basic Windows platforms, MAC, UNIX. Him good compatibility with other graphic packages, there is support for several formats - Al, PSD, EPS, PDF. Creation of web pages is supported using the HTML Conversion Wizard.
The disadvantages of Corel Draw are also related to the disadvantages of vector graphics. In addition, the editor is somewhat overloaded with buttons and options.
ADOBE Illustrator CS v11.0. A new version vector graphics editor with enhanced support for creating 3D images, introducing completely new features, including support for 3D Effects, which greatly simplifies working with 3D objects, Scribble Effect and an all-new pencil effect. Added support for various fonts, support PDF format 1.5 and "Acrobat 6.0" integration. In addition, Illustrator CS includes a large number of new built-in effects. Powerful graphics processing tools have gained popularity thanks to a wide range of tools that allow MAC and Windows XP users to create high-quality WEB graphics.
Special tools allow you to perform various manipulations with pictures and texts, create additional effects, and advanced capabilities for working with image layers ensure the highest quality indicators of objects created by this editor.
Macromedia Freehand MX v11.0. A powerful graphics package for vector graphics, a long-standing, albeit lesser-known competitor to Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw. Tightly integrated with other Macromedia products (eg Macromedia Flash). Has support for many popular formats. It will appeal to both publishers and Web designers. Allows you to save results in Flash (SWT) and other formats.
Macromedia FireWorks 2004 MX. The best tool for creating interactive web graphics. Macromedia Fireworks MX contains a complete set of tools needed to create professional graphics. You can quickly create original compositions and interactive elements, from simple graphical buttons to complex effects and pop-up menus. Finished images can be saved in any graphic format or export to Macromedia Flash and Dreamweaver.
Xara X(read "zara") is a vector graphics editor designed for creating artistic illustrations (currently a product of Corel, not included in standard package). Compact editor with a sufficient set of tools. Allows you to work with raster images. According to this indicator, none of the editors that can work with vector and raster forms can compare with Xara X in simplicity, flexibility and speed. The program has a huge internal resolution - 72,000 dpi - less than a micron, which allows it to be used, for example, in cartography (with an increase of up to 25,000%, the image remains smooth). Disadvantages of Xara X are weak text processing capabilities, color distortion when switching to the CMYK model.
Graphics editor AutoCAD) is one of the most common programs abroad and in Russia, widely used in various computer-aided design systems - in mechanical engineering, instrument making, construction, radio engineering, etc.
It allows you to create flat and spatial geometric models of almost any complexity. Automate design activities based on the creation of three-dimensional geometric representations of designed products.
The modern AutoCAD 2007 package allows you to work simultaneously with several drawings, has powerful visualization tools for created three-dimensional objects and advanced capabilities for adapting the system to user requirements, provides communication graphic objects With external bases data, allows you to view and copy drawing components without opening its file, edit external links and blocks located in external files, and many many others. This version introduced the ability to create three-dimensional parametric models.
Autodesk Inventor remains the best-selling 3D mechanical design system. The leading position of this software package is due to the combination of 3D design capabilities with a unique technology for 2D design, maintenance and migration of 2D data to 3D.
The Autodesk Inventor graphical editor is a tool for constructing element-based parametric 3D solid models. The leading position of this software package is due to the combination of 3D design capabilities with a unique technology for 2D design, maintenance and migration of 2D data to 3D. Parametric Modeling allows you to control the shape and dimensions of the object being created by specifying its dimensions - dimension-driven design.
The main purpose of Autodesk Inventor 11 is to provide users with tools that best meet their requirements, create conditions for high-performance work, guarantee the ability to create complex shapes, and ensure compliance with the real needs of the market in the field of 2D/3D design.
A similar approach to modeling is used in a number of graphic editors, such as Solid Works, Compass and others.
The most popular 3D graphics editor today is 3dsmax, the already mentioned Autodesk company. This graphic editor can create beautiful photorealistic objects and also animate images. The graphics package is characterized by a similar architecture Maya.
A fairly simple 3D graphics editor has quite good capabilities. Rhinoceros. An important advantage of the package is its compactness and accessibility. In addition, Rhinoceros allows you to very easily and reliably export and import almost everything known today, vector files. Thus, it can represent a kind of buffer between various graphic editors that cannot perform direct export-import.
Self-test questions.
1. What is vector graphics?
2. Name the main vector graphics tools.
3. What is a Bezier curve?
4. Name the main advantages of the Bezier curve.
5. What does the term primitive mean?
6. What types of nodes exist in vector graphics?
7. What is a contour?
8. Name the main advantages and disadvantages of vector graphics.
9. List the main vector graphics editors.
Loading...
