CTech Reviewer
Two General Categories in Image Files
1. Raster Files
2. Vector Files
Raster images-made up of a set grid of dots called pixels
-resolution dependent, exist at one size
-when you transform, it is pixelated or blurry
-used for photographs, digital artworks and web graphics (banner ads,
social media content and email graphics)
Adobe photoshop- industry standard image editor that is used to create,
design and edit raster images to add effects, shadows and texture
All raster images can be saved in one of two primary color models such
as:
1. CMYK
2. RGB
CMYK-four-color printing process that stands for cyan, magenta, yellow
and key (black)
These colors represent the four inks that will combine during the
printing process
RGB- light-based color model that stand for red, green and blue
(primary color)
Lossy VS lossless
Lossless image formats capture all of the data of your original file
Lossy image formats approximate what your original image looks like.
Lossy files are much smaller that loseless file making them ideal to use
online where file size and download speed are vital
JPEG/JPG- lossy raster format that stands for JOINT PHOTOGRAPHIC
EXPERTS GROUP
-most widely used formats online for photos, email graphics and large
web
JPEG images-have a sliding scale of compression that decreases file size
but increases artifacts or pixelation
Use JPEG FOR:
-online photos and or artwork (flexibility)
-to print photos and or artwork
-quick preview image
Do not use when:
-you need a web graphic with transparency
-you need a layered, editable image
GIF-lossless raster format that stands for Graphics Interchange Format
You should use GIF when:
-you want to create web animation
-need transparency
-need a small file
Don’t use GIF when:
-You need a photographic-quality image
-you need to print an image
-you need a layered, editable image
PNG-loseless raster format that stands for Portable Network Graphics
-it has a built-in transparency but also display higher color depth
You should use PNG when:
1. You need a high-quality transparent web graphics
2. You have illustrations with limited colors
3. You need a small file
Do not use PNG when:
-You are working with photos or artwork
-You are dealing with a print project
TIFF-loseless raster format that stands for Tagged Image File Format
-extremely high quality
-format is used in photography and desktop publishing
You should use a TIFF when:
-You need high-quality print graphics
-You are making a high-quality scan
Do not use it when:
-you are working with web graphics
RAW- raw image format contains the unprocessed data captured by a
digital camera or scanner’s sensor
You should use a RAW when:
-You are shooting and editing photos
Do not use RAW when:
-You are working with web graphics
-you are ready to print your photos
PSD-proprietary layered image format that stands fro Photoshop
Document
-used to create and edit raster images
-can be exported into any number of image file
You should use a PSD when:
-retouching a photo
-edit artwork
-want digital image for the web
-create a website or app mockup
-you want to get fancy with animation and video
Do not use a PSD when:
-post a photo online or send a preview to a client
- you are ready to print your photos
Vector File Formats
Vector image- are digital artwork in which points, lines and curves are
calculated by the computer
-essentially giant math equation
-use for logos, icons, typesetting and digital illustration
Adobe Illustrator- idustry-standard image editor that is used to
create,design and edit vector images
PDF- Portable Document Format
-an image format used to display documents and graphics correctly
You should use a PDF when:
-you are ready to print
-want to display documents on the web
Do not use PDF when:
-you need to edit your design
EPS-Encapsulated PostScript
-used as a vector format
-include vector and raster image data
You should use EPS when;
-you need a vector logo to a client
Do not use an EPS when:
-dealing with photographs or artwork
-need to display an image online
AI- Adobe Illustrator
-based on both EPS and PDF developed by adobe
You use it when:
-editing a vector design
-creating a logo, icon or brand mascot
-want a one-page print piece
Do not use an AI when: you need to edit images
Elements of Design
Line-created by moving point
-it is a dot that takes a walk
Space- refers to emptiness
Positive space- part of artwork that takes up space
Negative space- area around the object
Shape-enclosed space that can be formed by lines, colors, values,
textures
Form- created when 2D shapes come together to form 3G
Texture- how something feels or looks
Color- derived from reflected and absorbed light
-add interest and mood
Principles of design
Balance- distribution of visual weight
Emphasis- catches the viewer’s attention
Movement- path the viewer’s eye takes through the work of art, often
to focal areas
Pattern- repeating of an object or symbol
Repitition- works with pattern to make the work of art seems active
Rhythm- created when one or more elements of design are used
repeatedly to create a feeling of organized movement
Proportion- feeling of unity created when all parts related well with
each other
Variety-use of several elements
Unity-feeling of harmony
Size-how big or small a component is
Scale-refer to the literal or implied size
Contrast-juxtaposition of opposing elements
Gradation- process of change through a gradual series
Gestalt-how certain things are
Golden ratio- number used when two qualities are divided
Rule of Thirds-divided evenly into thirds
