# Vector and Bitmap Graphics

A bitmap is a file format that gives the display device (such as the monitor) pixel-by-pixel instructions on how to display an image.

Bitmap file formats (such as JPEG, TGA, TIF, and GIF) are resolution-dependent.

- If you enlarge a bitmap, the edges of zones appear jagged.
- If you shrink a bitmap, features in the image appear fuzzy.

Because of the pixel-by-pixel information that must be transmitted in the file, bitmaps tend to have large file sizes, which can slow download times over the Web.

A vector image file gives the display device a mathematical description of the shapes in an image. The display device can then display the image based on the specific resolution settings of the device.

Vector graphics are resolution-independent because they can be redrawn at different resolutions without losing precision. Resolution-independent means that:

- You can change the size of a vector graphic and maintain the quality of the drawing.

Because vector image files contain mathematical descriptions, they tend to be very small in size, making them ideal for transmission over the Web.

Toon Boom Studio uses vector technology to create rich, scalable animations with small file sizes, perfect for an audience of Web viewers.

This vector-based technology allows you to make changes to all of the drawings in an element (in Sceneplanning Views) without sacrificing the quality of your images.

See Also
Drawing Line Art
Optimizing Drawing Objects for the Web
Basic Sceneplanning Concepts
Animating Elements with Pegs