Vector PDF file or AI file

deannab53383778  wrote Hello I've searched the forum for keywords vector pdf and AI file, but I'm too basic to really understand the answers.  My printer wants the file send to him in vector pdf file or ai file.  Can I use Photoshop Elements to create either of these 2 types of files, or do I need a more expansive type of program?  Thank you, Deanna

There are two very different kinds of image editing softwares: bitmap or vectors...

- bitmap: the image is made of 'pixels' of different colors. That's typically the case of camera images, that's the way your home inkjet printer prints images... and that is the way your retina perceives what your are seing.

- vectors: The elements of your image are shapes, lines, gradients or other items which can be defined by math curves.

Photoshop, Elements or other 'Photography' editors are mainly bitmap softwares (they can have some vector ability too).

Illustrator, Inkscape are vector editors. The format AI is the format for Illustrator.

If your printer asks for 'vectors',  he must have a very special process and I admit I don't see why.

Vector images have a huge advantage. Unlike bitmaps, you can enlarge the images without losing quality, without 'posterization' or scales in diagonal lines. They are perfect to create logos for instance.

But for photography, they can't replace bitmaps (pixels); at best you can 'trace', that is analyze the image and create vector elements which give a simplified, stylized drawing version of your photo.

So if there is a good reason for using vector drawing softwares, Illustrator would be your choice.