Graphics program

A graphics program is a piece of computer software that enables a user to modify or view graphics files. Computer graphics can be classified into two distinct categories: raster graphics and vector graphics. Before learning about computer software that manipulates or displays these graphics types, you should be familiar with both.

Many graphics programs focus exclusively on either vector or raster graphics, but there are a few that combine them in interesting and sometimes unexpected ways.

Most graphics programs have the ability to import and export one or more graphics file formats.

Several graphics programs support animation, or digital video. Vector graphics animation can be described as a series of mathematical transformations that are applied in sequence to one or more shapes in a scene. Raster graphics animation works in a similar fashion to film-based animation, where a series of still images produces the illusion of continuous movement.

Popular raster graphics programs include:

• The GIMP
• Paint Shop Pro
• PhotoImpact
• Photoshop
• Photo-Paint
• Picture It

Popular vector graphics programs include:

• CorelDraw
• Macromedia FreeHand
• Adobe Illustrator

Popular vector graphics animation programs include:

• Macromedia Flash
• Adobe LiveMotion

Software for managing graphics include:

• iPhoto made by Apple Computer
• iView Media made by iView Multimedia
• CodedColor

See also Computer Painting.