Have you heard of SVG? If you are new to designing, you might have come across the term SVG, but what does it stand for, and why is it used? We’ll answer these questions and help you understand why SVG files are so popular. 

SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphics, and it is an XML-based markup language that describes two-dimensional vectors with mathematical calculation. SVG is an open standard developed in 1999 by World Wide Web Consortium. SVG images can be integrated with other W3C standards such as CSS, DOM, and JavaScript. 

SVG images are different from raster images. Raster images consist of classic bitmapped formats that consist of JPEG, PNG, and GIF. In comparison to raster images, SVG images are scalable and do not compromise on resolution. 

What is Scalable Vector Graphic?

Scalable Vector Graphic is a description of an image described in XML text files. This means the files can be searched, compressed, scripted, and indexed. In addition, SVG format enables the image to retain resolution irrespective of the devices. 

This information can be overwhelming for the novice, so here we have explained the A-Z of scalable vector graphics.

For instance, take a concentric circle as a design in illustrator; we recommend you take a pixel image. When you start zooming in, you will notice blurry lines on the edge of the image. Next, take the same image and use vector graphics; a vector is a two-dimensional image with a specific direction and magnitude.

The vector graphics are based on a mathematical calculator so that they won’t get distorted or blurry irrespective of the resolution. This can be done with the help of photoshop tools, Inkscape and Adobe Illustrator. 

There are websites that provide free SVG Files, and you can download and use them for different purposes. The SVG files come in a zipped format that contains a bunch of vector graphics. You can use modern browsers like Mozilla Firefox, Adobe Illustrator, Google Chrome to unzip the text files. 

What Is Scalability?

The vector images can be rendered at any size. It is directly linked to the elements that create the file format. An SVG image file format can be shrunk or zoomed in as much as you want. It benefits in creating big or small logos or icons. Here is an image that can help you to understand the vector image.

 

Also, as the SVG files are markup text files, they are made with codes, the size of the SVG files is minuscule. This means you can embed it in any text or file, and these are lightweight. You won’t need any HTTP requests for these files. 

The vector images created through XML text-based commands are different from JPED and GIF images on the web. The GIF, PNG, and JPEG images are bitmapped and always remain in a specific size, while SVG images are scalable to any size and adjust as per the resolution and size. Moreover, the SVG mages can be embedded in CSS to make them responsive to web design. 

SVG drawing and animations can be dynamic and intuitive. For animation, W3C recommends SMIL and JavaScript. 

Conclusion

SVG images are the need of the hour; stepping ahead and learning about the basics can help you explore a new arena of creativity. In addition, the SVG uploaded images on websites are much smaller and quicker to respond to.