Vector and Raster Graphics¶

There are two main types of graphic images: vector and raster images.

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[image] Add figure demonstration of vector vs. raster

Vector graphics are composed with descriptions of the points, lines, curves and polygons that make up the image; due to this nature, they can be infinitely scaled and resized without losing quality. Common uses of vector graphics include architecture diagrams, flowcharts, laser cutout files and large format printing files.

Raster graphics or bitmaps on the other hand are images made up with rows and columns of small squares called pixels. Each pixel is mapped to a location and a color value. When the resolution matches the display resolution, the image looks crisp; if the image resolution is less than the display resolution, you will see jagged lines and individual pixels. This format is appropriate in areas where you need to preserve the looks of real-world objects, such as digital photography and remote sensing.

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Add read mores for raster export and image embed/linking in this section

Inkscape mainly deals with the creation of vector graphics, with curve, shape and node tools at your disposal. However it can embed and link to raster graphics, and export files in raster formats.