Computers express graphic information in two fundamentally different ways. There are vector graphics, and raster graphics.

This is an example of a vector graphic. You can tell because only shapes of uniform flat colour make up the image. There is no shading or gradual transition from one colour shape to the next.

In vector graphics, a computer remembers the location, colour, and geometrical definition of every line or shape found in the image.

Vector graphics offer certain advantages, but they also present drawbacks. The use of flat colour shapes can produce a crisp, graphically bold image. But to accurately describe complex light and textural effects using vector graphics is difficult.

An advantage of vector graphics is their ability to be scaled without loss in image quality. Contours of the shapes that form an image remain smooth, regardless of changes in image size.

Most display and output devices are raster-based. Vector graphics normally require conversion to raster format prior to viewing.

Computer applications that generate vector graphics are often called drawing programs. I use Adobe Illustrator^® for my work.