Outcome 6.3 Graphics: Creating, Editing, Layering, and Exporting Digital Assets

Raster Graphic

A graphic made of a grid of colored squares called pixels, resolution-dependent.

Vector Graphic

A graphic made from mathematically defined shapes (paths) that scale cleanly to any size.

PPI

Pixels per inch; a measure of resolution for printed graphics.

RGB

A color mode used for screens based on red, green, and blue light.

CMYK

A color mode used for printing based on cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks.

Transparent Background

A background that allows the graphic to blend seamlessly with various backgrounds.

Shape-based Construction

Creating graphics primarily using geometric shapes like rectangles and ellipses.

Drawing and Painting

Using tools like brushes or pencils to create graphics, usually producing raster marks.

Typography

The visual arrangement of text, including font choice, spacing, and alignment.

Opactity

The degree of transparency of a layer, affecting how much of the layer below is visible.

Layer Mask

A mask that controls the visibility of a layer, allowing for non-destructive editing.

Blending Modes

Options in graphic software that determine how a layer's pixels blend with the pixels below.

Non-destructive Editing

Editing that allows for changes to be made later without permanent alterations to the original image.

Lossy Compression

A method of reducing file size that removes some data, often resulting in visible artifacts.

Lossless Compression

A method of reducing file size without losing any data, preserving image fidelity.

SVG Format

A vector graphic format that supports transparency and is ideal for logos and icons.

JPEG Format

A raster format primarily for photos, supports lossy compression, no transparency.

PNG Format

A raster format that supports lossless compression and transparency, used for graphics.

Export Settings

Options chosen during file export that affect quality, format, and compatibility.

Bleed

Extending graphics beyond the cut line in print to prevent white edges when trimming.

Pixel Dimensions

The total number of pixels in width and height, defining the detail of raster images.

Contrast

The difference in luminance or color that makes an object distinguishable from others.

Hierarchy in Design

The arrangement of elements to show importance, often through size and alignment.

Folder Structure

A systematic organization of files and folders for easy retrieval and management in design projects.

Version Control

The practice of incrementally saving versions of files to track changes and recover previous states.

Clipping Mask

A mask used to confine the visibility of a layer to the shape of another layer.

Asset Reuse

Using pre-designed elements consistently across multiple designs to maintain branding.