There are two main categories of graphic images: bitmap and vector. Bitmap images, also referred to as raster images, are pixel-based. This means that location and color information about the image is stored in individual pixels within a grid. Figure 5.1-1 shows a small blue arrow image at its actual size. Figure 5.1-2 shows the same image magnified. The upper left quadrant of Figure 5.1-2 shows the individual pixels of the image. As the figure illustrates, each pixel has an assigned color; some pixels are white, while other pixels are blue. The information stored in a bitmap image regarding pixel location and color is what forms the image. Bitmap images are edited at the pixel level; in other words, the color of any one pixel can be changed. Additional attributes of bitmap images include:
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Vector images are mathematically-based. All lines, shapes, etc. (also called objects) of a vector-based image are independent of one another. Figure 5.1-3 shows an image of a rose (actual size). Figure 5.1-4 shows one leaf of the same rose magnified, along with the paths and handles used within vector images. Additional attributes of vector-based images include:
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