Best way to describe vector vs raster

graphicsvector graphics

Many times at work, someone will ask me if they can get an image (company logo, for example) in EPS or SVG format. They assume that since I put the image on the company site, that I could easily convert it to the format they need and send it to them.

Obviously, the problem is that the original image is a raster format and they're asking for a vector image. I often find myself having trouble explaining why I can't fill their request. Especially without giving a bunch of technical terms that I'd have to explain.

I'm not looking for an answer on how to convert JPG to SVG or similar but rather an easy-to-understand explanation of why the process isn't as straightforward as it seems.

Please help me straighten this out. Thanks!

Best Answer

I always say

Raster records the pixels in the picture.

Vector records the steps it took to draw the picture.

So if you enlarge Raster you get a big picture with big pixels. If you enlarge Vector the computer follows the steps to redraw at higher resolution.

If you have a chance to demo it for them, load up Word and put in 1 small (raster) image and 1 clip art. Then drag the corners to show what happens. You could even print out the before/after and hang it on your cube so you have something to point to.

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