Vector vs. Raster: What’s the Difference and Why Does It Matter for Digital Artists?
If you’re new to digital art, or even if you’ve been at it a while, you’ve probably heard the terms vector and raster thrown around. Maybe someone said, “That’s a vector file” or “Oops, it’s too pixelated — it must be raster.” And you were like... okay cool... but what does that mean, exactly? Honestly, same. I had no idea what the difference was before I sat down and did my research. In this guide, I’ll break down everything I learned about vector and raster art, when to use each one, what tools to try, and how it affects the way you create, share, and sell your work.
Pixel Art 101: The Charm of Digital Nostalgia
What was once a constraint of early computer graphics — where images were limited by the number of pixels available on a screen — has now become a conscious choice for artists who seek to evoke nostalgia while also exploring new creative possibilities. From its early days in video games to its current presence in digital art galleries and NFT marketplaces, pixel art has evolved remarkably while staying true to its origins. Here’s an introduction to the history of pixelated art, its modern-day appeal, and how to create your own pixel artwork online.