Raster graphics

How Raster Graphics Work?

Raster images work by mapping each pixel in a grid to a specific color or tone. The image's resolution is determined by the number of pixels, with higher resolutions offering more detail.

Common Uses of Raster Graphics

Photographs: Most digital photos are raster images (JPEG, PNG, GIF).
Web Graphics: Used for detailed images and textures.
Image Editing: Commonly used in software like Photoshop for detailed image manipulation.

Guide to Major Raster File Formats

1. JPEG / JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)

Meaning: A widely used format for compressing images.
Usage: Most common image format for photographs on the web and digital cameras.
Strengths: High compression with relatively good image quality, ideal for sharing and web use.
Common Software: Photoshop, GIMP, web browsers.

2. PNG (Portable Network Graphics)

Meaning: A raster image format that supports lossless compression.
Usage: Often used for web graphics with transparency (logos, icons) and screenshots.
Strengths: Lossless compression, supports transparency.
Common Software: Photoshop, GIMP, web browsers.

3. GIF (Graphics Interchange Format)

Meaning: A bitmap image format that supports animations.
Usage: Used for short animations and images with limited color (up to 256 colors). Commonly seen in memes and web animations.
Strengths: Supports animation and transparency, small file sizes.
Common Software: Web browsers, GIMP.

4. BMP (Bitmap Image File Format)

Meaning: BMP, or Bitmap Image File, is a raster-based image format developed by Microsoft, widely used for storing high-quality images in an uncompressed format. Each pixel in a BMP file is represented individually, which preserves image detail.
Usage: BMP files are often used in situations where high-quality, detailed images are needed, such as simple graphics, icons, and basic image storage in older Windows applications. While the format retains high fidelity, its lack of compression leads to larger file sizes, making it less suitable for web use.
Strengths: BMP files maintain original image quality, making them suitable for lossless storage. They are universally compatible with most image editing software, especially in Windows environments.
Common Software: Microsoft Paint, Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW.

5. TIFF (Tagged Image File Format)

Meaning: A format used for storing high-quality images.
Usage: Frequently used in professional photography and desktop publishing due to its high image quality.
Strengths: Lossless format, high-quality images, suitable for archiving and printing.
Common Software: Photoshop, Lightroom.

6. PDF (Portable Document Format)

Meaning: A file format developed by Adobe that maintains a document's layout and formatting across different systems.
Usage: Widely used for sharing read-only documents such as ebooks, manuals, forms, and contracts. It can contain text, images, and vector graphics.
Strengths: Preserves formatting, cross-platform compatibility, secure with encryption.
Common Software: Adobe Acrobat, web browsers, PDF readers.

7. PSD (Photoshop Document File Format)

Meaning: PSD, or Photoshop Document, is the native file format used by Adobe Photoshop. It stores images in layers, allowing for advanced editing, with support for a wide range of elements such as masks, filters, and color spaces, preserving the full flexibility of the project.
Usage: PSD files are the industry standard in graphic design, photography, and digital illustration. They are commonly used in image editing workflows where maintaining layers and detailed adjustments is essential. PSD files are often converted into formats like JPEG, PNG, or PDF once the editing is complete.
Strengths: PSD files preserve all layers and edits, allowing for non-destructive editing. The format supports high-resolution images and complex compositions, making it ideal for professional use.
Common Software: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP (limited support), Adobe Illustrator (for certain features).