Art by Rachel Whitson

Course overview

Digital images are produced using a variety of computer technologies. Advanced color theory, surface rendering, and light control are emphasized in relation to technical illustration, hardware characteristics, and software capabilities.

Course objectives

Upon completion of this class, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of the primary attributes and differences between vector and raster graphics and their application to various communicative products and tasks.
• Demonstrate understanding of analog and digital data forms and the conversion processes relating to digital imaging.
• Appropriately use common imaging application features such as layers, channels, paths, filters, color adjustment and correction tools, histograms, color mode tools, and calibration tools.
• Demonstrate understanding of input, manipulation, and output technologies related to raster graphics.
• Demonstrate understanding of color theory, color models, color systems, and the psychological affects of color in raster imaging.
• Demonstrate understanding of miscellaneous raster graphics issues such as file formats, compression technologies, vector to raster conversion methods and the legal implications of copyrights, trademarks, licenses, and releases.
• Demonstrate skill and proficiency in creating professional raster graphics for all types of output including: textures for use in 3D environments, photographic reproduction, digital illustration, web delivery, CD-ROM multimedia, and self-promotion.