FIGURE 3.27 “Presentation.” © Lisa Gagne/iStockphoto
Vectors are a form of geometric modeling that uses mathematical
calculations to represent shapes that are scalable without image deg-
radation. A vector is thus very different in concept and execution from
a typical raster image, such as a photograph. Its advantage is its scal-
ability: as it is just a series of mathematical calculations, a computer
can scale a vector to any size. Special programs, such as Adobe Illus-
trator or Corel Draw, are needed to create and edit vectors.
Vectors sold through microstock agencies tend to be relatively
simple backgrounds and shapes.
Some subjects, such as backgrounds, surrounds, buttons, and the
like lend themselves very well to vectors. The two examples here,
Figure 3.29, “Retro Floral Patterns,” and Figure 3.30, “Vector Icons,”
are excellent examples of typical, successful, vector art sold through
the microstock agencies. Both will scale without degradation to almost
any size. If you can create vectors like these, then you should have
success selling them through the microstocks, most of which sell
vectors, recognizing their high value to designers.
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