Raster
Raster is a common type of digital image format used in graphic design and photography. Unlike vector graphics (which use mathematical formulas), raster images are made up of tiny colored dots called pixels - like a digital mosaic. Think of digital photographs, which are raster images. When you see terms like 'Photoshop skills' or 'photo editing' in job descriptions, they're often talking about working with raster images. Common file types include JPG, PNG, and TIFF. Understanding raster graphics is essential for designers working with photographs or detailed digital artwork.
Examples in Resumes
Created high-resolution Raster images for print marketing materials
Converted Raster artwork to vector format for company logos
Expert in editing Raster and Bitmap images using Adobe Photoshop
Typical job title: "Graphic Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Graphic Designers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle high-resolution raster images for different output needs (print vs web)?
Expected Answer: A senior designer should explain how they adjust image resolution and file formats based on the end use - higher resolution for print (300 DPI or more) and optimized lower resolution for web (72 DPI), while maintaining quality.
Q: What's your workflow for managing large raster files in complex projects?
Expected Answer: Should discuss file organization, backup strategies, version control, and techniques for maintaining efficiency when working with large image files, including the use of smart objects and proper layer management.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What techniques do you use to repair damaged raster images?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common photo restoration techniques like using healing brush, clone stamp, and content-aware fill to fix damaged or low-quality images.
Q: How do you optimize raster images for web use?
Expected Answer: Should describe methods for reducing file size while maintaining quality, including compression techniques, choosing appropriate file formats, and resizing strategies.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between raster and vector images?
Expected Answer: Should explain that raster images are made of pixels and can lose quality when enlarged, while vector images use mathematical formulas and can be scaled without quality loss.
Q: What file formats are commonly used for raster images and why?
Expected Answer: Should know basic formats like JPG (for photographs), PNG (for web graphics with transparency), and TIFF (for print), and understand their basic uses.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic photo editing
- Understanding of image resolutions
- Knowledge of common file formats
- Simple retouching techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced photo manipulation
- Image optimization techniques
- Color correction expertise
- Batch processing skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex photo compositing
- Advanced restoration techniques
- Project workflow optimization
- Team leadership and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic image editing software like Photoshop
- Confusion about appropriate image resolutions for different uses
- Unable to explain different image file formats
- No experience with color management
Related Terms
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