Bitmap Image and Vector
Representation
Welcome to the world of bitmap images and vector representation! In
this lesson, we'll uncover the secrets of how these digital images are
represented and stored on a computer. Prepare to dive into the
fundamental concepts that power the images you see every day.
by T A Mubonderi
Defining Bitmap Images
Pixel-Based Representation
Digital Representation of Images
Bitmap images, also known as raster images, are composed
Each pixel stores color information, and collectively, they
of a grid of tiny squares called pixels.
form the visual representation of an image.
Defining Bitmap Images
What are they?
How they work
Bitmap images, also known as raster images, are digital
Each pixel represents a single point of color, and together,
images composed of a grid of tiny squares called pixels.
they form the complete image. This grid-like structure is
what gives bitmap images their distinctive characteristics.
Design your own image using the bitmap concept
Using Bitmap desing a grid to represent an object
Understanding Pixels
1
1. Building blocks
2
2. Color representation
3
3. Resolution
Pixels are the fundamental
Each pixel stores information
The number of pixels per unit of
building blocks of bitmap
about its color, usually using a
area determines the image's
images.
color model like RGB (Red,
resolution, affecting its
Green, Blue).
sharpness and detail.
Color Depth and Quality
What is Color Depth?
Impact on quality
Impact on file size
Color depth refers to the number of
A higher color depth generally leads
However, higher color depth also
bits used to represent the color of
to better image quality, as it allows for
means larger file sizes, as more bits
each pixel. Higher color depth allows
more subtle color variations and
are needed to store the color
for more distinct colors, resulting in
transitions.
information for each pixel.
richer and more realistic images.
Storing Bitmap Images
File formats
Data organization
Bitmap images are typically stored in
The image data is organized into a
file formats like .bmp, .jpg, .png, and
series of bytes, representing the
.gif. Each format has its own way of
color of each pixel. This data is stored
compressing and storing the image
in a file on your computer.
data.
File header
A file header contains information
about the image, such as its
dimensions, resolution, and color
depth.
Compression Techniques
Lossless
1
Preserves all the original image data, ensuring no information is lost.
Lossy
2
Reduces file size by discarding some data, potentially affecting image
quality.
Compression
3
Techniques used to reduce file size without compromising
quality as much as possible.
Real-World Applications
Photography
1
Bitmap images are the foundation of digital photography, capturing the world in vibrant detail.
Graphic design
2
They're essential for creating logos, illustrations, and other visual content.
Web design
3
Website images, icons, and banners are typically bitmap images, enriching the
online experience.
Video games
4
Bitmap images are used to create the characters,
backgrounds, and objects that populate video games.
Key Takeaways
1
2
Pixels are key
Color depth matters
Bitmap images are built from a grid
Color depth affects image quality
of pixels, each representing a single
and file size.
color.
3
4
Storage and compression
Versatile and essential
Bitmap images are stored in files
Bitmap images are crucial for
using various formats and
various applications, enriching our
compression techniques.
digital world.