Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Even though Photoshop is best known as a pixel-based (or raster)
program, it does have a respectable set of vector drawing tools.
Ve c t or g r a ph ic s a re m a de up of m a t hem a t ic a l ly dei ne d l i ne s a nd
curves. Vector graphics are resolution-independent, because they
can be scaled and repositioned with no loss of quality. Vector
graphics are a good choice for creating shapes (such as rectangles,
circles, or polygons) within your Photoshop document. The added
benefit to using the drawing tools is that you can then scale the
shapes and modify the design while still maintaining a crisp
image. With Photoshop CS6, vectors have become more robust
and include the ability to assign custom fills and strokes (much like
Adobe Illustrator).
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Vector Drawing Tools
Choosing the Right Drawing Tool
Photoshop offers six Shape tools. They can be used to create vec-
tor shapes, vector paths (which can be used to make a selection),
or raster shapes. The following list explains how to change how
the Shape tools work:
•
Rectangle tool. The Rectangle tool draws rectangles; if you
hold down the Shift key, it draws squares.
•
Rounded Rectangle tool. The Rounded Rectangle tool is
well suited for drawing buttons for websites. Adjust the Radius
setting to modify the amount of curvature.
•
ellipse tool. The Ellipse tool draws ellipses; if you hold down
the Shift key, it draws circles.
•
polygon tool. The Polygon tool creates polygons. The fewest
number of sides a polygon can have is three (which is a tri-
angle). The most complex polygon you can create is a hectagon
(a 100-sided figure). Enter the number of sides in the Options
bar. Additionally, the Polygon tool can be used to create stars
by clicking the Geometry Options button in the Options bar.
•
Line tool. The Line tool draws lines. Specify a thickness in
the Options bar. The line can be between 1 and 1000 pixels in
width. You can also choose to add arrowheads by clicking the
Geometry Options button in the Options bar.
