Rasterization is the process if you’re looking for an easy way to change your vector artwork into a bitmap image. This tutorial will show you how to rasterize in Photoshop using different methods. We’ll also provide tips on how to get the best results from each one. So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, read on for all the info you need.
What Is Rasterization In Photoshop?
Whether you’re working with words, figures, or smart objects in Photoshop, the need to “rasterize” a layer may arise. In some cases, you may require editing of a layer, changing of color, or erasing portions of an image, which is not achievable without rasterization. This term may appear to be a bit puzzling, considering that the differences between a rasterized layer and a vector layer are not all that significant.
Rasterizing a layer in the process of transforming a vector layer into a layer of pixels. This alters the way your layer is presented and the editing possibilities available to you. When a vector is rasterized, you can see the pixels around the margins of the vector rather than a smooth line as in the original vector. However, you acquire the ability to modify the layer straight from the layer palette.
Let’s go through the functions of the rasterizing feature in Photoshop to understand better what it’s all about.
Purpose Of Rasterizing A Layer
When you rasterize a layer, it will transform any sort of vector layer into a series of pixels. In the case of a vector layer, the image is composed of geometric formulae that are used to construct the contents of the image. This is ideal for designs that require crisp edges or that need to be scaled up greatly in size.
The problem with vectors is that they are unsuitable with pixel effects like brush adjustments and the eraser. You will not be able to apply the effects you require to a vector layer in some cases since it cannot be blended with a pixel layer due to this limitation.
It is at this point that rasterizing is utilized. By rasterizing the layer, you may convert a vector derived from a geometric formula into a set of pixels and display them. You will be able to add pixel-type effects to your layer without any problems in this manner.
How To Rasterize A Layer?
Any vector layer or smart object may be rasterized in a matter of seconds using one of two methods.
It is quickest and most convenient for you to rasterize a layer by right-clicking on it in your layers panel and selecting “Rasterize.”
Alternatively, you may go to Layer > Rasterize and choose the type of layer(s) to rasterize from the drop-down menu. If your layer has numerous vector effects, you may use this approach to select which regions of the layer you wish to rasterize. You could, for example, rasterize layer effects without harming your vector text if you wanted to.
You may rasterize an entire layer by selecting it in your layers panel and selecting Layer > Rasterize on the layer you wish to rasterize.
If you wish to rasterize all of your vector layers simultaneously, you may do it by selecting Layer > Rasterize > All Layers.
When To Rasterize?
When it comes to achieving the effects you want, you may not have much choice but to rasterize your layer in order to do it effectively. Using rasterization will allow you to perform pixel-type alterations that would otherwise be impossible to do without rasterizing first.
With that stated, rasterizing a layer is not an effective method of non-destructively modifying a document. Due to the fact that it would be a permanent modification, it is not always a smart decision. Indeed, what if you change your heart and decide that you want to go back to your original vector?
This will not be feasible once a layer has been rasterized.
Whenever possible, it is considerably more beneficial to duplicate and rasterize your vector layers in order to have a backup of your work available at all times.
In order to alter my form layer directly, for example, I would duplicate the layer and then rasterize the duplicate. That way, if I make the wrong modification, I have the opportunity to modify my mind later on or start over from the beginning.
Does Rasterizing Reduce Quality?
Although rasterizing a layer does not affect image quality, there are several key differences to be aware of.
Edges
Things won’t appear all that different when you initially rasterize a layer. When you zoom closer, the true difference becomes apparent. Although rasterizing a layer may not always result in a reduction in quality, it alters the appearance of your text’s borders, layers, or forms.
The image above shows how the shape’s edge is precise and crisp in the first shot but boxy in the second. The main distinction between vector and raster layers is this.
Your image is transformed into pixels after rasterizing and must fit inside the parameters of the pixels on your page. When you zoom closer, you’ll see that the edge looks pixelated.
No Rescaling Without Quality Loss
After rasterization, leaving your layer alone will not impair its quality. You’ll notice the severe quality loss when scaling up and down a rasterized layer.
Scaling a rasterized layer up or down impacts how many pixels it can operate with since it must fit within the pixels of your document. It suddenly has fewer pixels to work with when you shrink an image, so it compresses itself. When scaling back up in the other way, those few pixels must now be stretched into a bigger quantity. This has a negative impact on quality.
After large scaling, you can clearly observe the difference in quality. The difference is between a raster and vector layers in the two forms above.
Conclusion
Rasterizing is a process that should not be taken lightly in Adobe Photoshop. Although it may be necessary to do so in some instances. You should always weigh the pros and cons of rasterization before making your decision.
Once you have decided to rasterize, there are a few different methods that you can do so. Be sure to take into consideration how this decision will affect your layer’s quality before taking any irreversible steps.
