A vector image is a type of digital graphic that is created using mathematical equations to define shapes, lines, and colors. Unlike raster or bitmap images, which are composed of a grid of individual pixels, vector images are composed of paths and curves. Here are some key characteristics of vector images:
- Scalability: One of the primary advantages of vector images is their scalability. Since they are based on mathematical equations, they can be resized without loss of quality. This means you can enlarge a vector image to any size, and it will remain sharp and clear. This makes vector graphics ideal for logos, icons, illustrations, and any artwork that may need to be used at various sizes.
- Resolution-Independence: Vector images are resolution-independent, meaning they can be printed at high-quality resolutions or displayed on screens with varying pixel densities without pixelation.
- Compact File Sizes: Vector image files are usually smaller in size compared to their raster counterparts. This makes them efficient for web use and for storage.
- Editability: Vector images are highly editable. You can easily change the color, shape, and size of individual elements in a vector image using vector editing software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.
- Geometric Shapes: Vector images are often composed of geometric shapes like lines, curves, polygons, and text. These shapes are defined by mathematical equations such as Bézier curves.
- Ideal for Logo Design: Many company logos are created as vector images because of their ability to maintain quality across various applications and sizes.
- Common File Formats: Common file formats for vector images include SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS (Encapsulated PostScript), and PDF (Portable Document Format).
- Not Ideal for Realistic Images: While vector graphics excel at representing simple shapes and illustrations, they are not well-suited for detailed, realistic images such as photographs. For such images, raster images (e.g., JPEG, PNG) are more appropriate.
In summary, vector images are a versatile and efficient way to represent graphics, logos, and illustrations that need to be resized and edited without loss of quality. They are commonly used in design, illustration, and for creating graphics that need to be displayed or printed at various sizes and resolutions.
WordPress by default is not allowing the upload of vector images for security reasons. You can find here a workaround to this.