. Photoshop graphic elements can be vector images or bitmap images.
. By default, Shapes and Text are created on a type of layer called a Vector layer.
. When you try to work on them like using filters or using eraser tool, Photoshop shows a pop-up window asking to rasterize layer before using tool.
. When you rasterize Vector layer, Photoshop converts the layer to pixels.
. By default, Shapes and Text are created on a type of layer called a Vector layer.
. When you try to work on them like using filters or using eraser tool, Photoshop shows a pop-up window asking to rasterize layer before using tool.
Why to rasterize?
. Tools like Brush, Eraser, Paint Bucket Fill and filters work only on rasterized layers since they are pixel based.
. In order to use them, it must be first converted into pixels (Rasterized).
. But when you convert a Vector layer into pixels, it loses Vector functionality.
. Shapes and Text can no longer be scaled without losing quality.
. Text is no longer editable.
. So, before rasterizing a Vector layer, always duplicate it.
> Choose Layer
> Duplicate
> Choose Layer
> Duplicate
Alternatives to Rasterization:
To use paint or draw:
. Instead of rasterizing, create empty layer and use any paint or draw.
To use Paint Bucket Fill:
. To fill colors, fill directly from vector tool's properties.
> For Shapes - Color Picker
> For Text - Character Panel
To use Eraser Tool:
. If we need to use any eraser tool to hide parts of Vector layer, use Layer Mask.
. Let us make a shape and use Layer mask to hide part of it.
. After applying Layer mask, choose Brush tool and then use it as eraser to hide parts.
Saving images:
. To save images and upload into web, Photoshop provides an option Save for Web.
. We can resize the image and set quality depending on the file size.
. It save the images with good quality and provides 3 common formats:
.png
.jpeg
.gif
