Graphics software falls into two categories, still images and moving images.

Creating Still images

Still images are pictures that do not move. They are created on a computer either as bitmapped graphics (sometimes known as paint graphics) or vector graphics (sometimes known as draw graphics). Bitmapped graphics are used for photo realistic pictures where a large amount of detail is required. Vector drawn graphics are for line drawings made up of boxes, circles and lines.

Bitmapped Graphic	Vector Graphic

Creating new graphics is a slow and highly skilled job. Of the two examples shown above, you might be able to create the vector drawn graphic but creating the bitmapped graphic using a mouse would be almost impossible.

Answer the following questions in your jotter.

1. Identify two ways of getting bitmap graphics, i.e. photo realistic images, into your computer.

2. Describe an use for a vector graphics program.

3. Which type of graphic do you think will take up the most space in a computer disk? Give reasons.

4. Name three graphics package that you have heard of.