In this tutorial we will Learn:
Vector File
In Digital world, we have two kinds of image file types: known as "Raster" and "Vector". Both images types may be saved with several different file extensions and it's important to know when to use each image type and the best file extension on particular situations.
■ Vector files are images that are built by mathematical formulas that establish points on a grid. A vector image can scale at high resolution to virtually unlimited sizes. If we have a business logo saved in a vector format, we can resized it to fit on a billboard or reduced it to be printed on a ballpoint pen or business card with no problem of resolution.
■ Raster files are composed of the colored block commonly referred to as pixels. Because of these pixels, if a raster file is printed at a larger dimensions than its actual dimension, it will appear visibly grainy and pixelated because the dots that compose the image are forced to grow larger than its actual size.
Vector files are more versatile for certain types of tasks than raster files because, we can infinitely adjust the vector file in size without losing resolutions.
The most common types of vector files are:
■ AI: Adobe Illustrator or .ai file type is commonly used in print media and digital graphics, such as logo, icons, etc.
■ EPS: Encapsulated PostScript or .eps is an older type of vector graphics file. EPS files don't support transparency in the way more modern file formats like .ai do.
■ PDF: The Portable Document Format or pdf is built for the exchange of documents across platforms and it is editable in adobe acrobat.
■ SVG: The Scalable Vector Graphics or svg is based on XML (a markup language used widely across the internet that's readable by both machines and humans). It's useful for the web, where it can be indexed, searched, and scripted.
How to edit a Stock Vector Graphic file?
First of all, to be able to edit a vector file, you need a Vector editing software, such as "Adobe Illustrator", which is the industry standard program.
There are other programs that you can use, but these may create errors when opening and editing the files, if there are features that are not available. That's why, from InfoBrother, we recommend Adobe Illustrator.
There are many tutorials and learning material that you can find about vector edition on the internet and also in the adobe websites, but here are few tips that you can keep in mind when editing a vector from InfoBrother.
1
Downloading and Locating your File:
First of all, download your file and unzip the folder. If you're on a Mac, simply double-click the downloaded file to decompress it. If you're on a windows machine, Right-click the zipped folder and then hit "Extract All" in order to decompress it.
Open your .eps or .ai file in adobe illustrator and start editing.
2
Identifying the Layers:
For some files, you may find that there are different layers created (Background, elements, etc.). If this is not the case and the whole design is in a single layer, check the "Layer" window and unfold the sub-layers to unlock each element.
3
Group Objects:
If you are not able to select a specific object within the design, it may be because the objects are grouped. In this case, you just need to select the whole group, right-click and choose "Ungroup" from the menu. This will allow you to manipulate the objects individually.
4
Clipping Masks:
If the options "ungroup" does not work, it may be because there is a clipping mask applied to the image. Just right click and select "release clipping mask". After this step, you can ungroup again if required.
5
Recolor Artwork:
If you don't like the artwork colors, you can easily replace the colors within your artwork. Select your entire Layer and go to Edit » Edit colors » Recolor Art. You can choose from various color harmonies and pre-made palette, create new colors, or choose hues from your swatches panel.
