What is an SVG?
SVG stands for Scalable Vector Graphic and is usually a graphic file type or a 2D image.
These files use mathematical equations and different sets of rules about lines and shapes to produce graphics. SVGs are XML code that explain what shape should be displayed and what colours should be shown. Since SVGs aren’t pixel based (raster) images they can be scaled to any size without loss in quality, hence the name Scalable Vector Graphic.
What are the benefits of using SVGs?
The top 4 benefits of SVGs are as follows:
1. Clarity
SVGs can be scaled to any size and will retain all their detail and will not pixelate. You can resize it as many times as you like without losing any quality in the image.
2. Versatility
SVGs can easily be made responsive which ensures they look good when displayed on any device even if the viewer is zooming in on the image. This makes SVGs a good choice for logos and simple infographics. SVGs are also easily animated which can be useful in adding some eye-catching elements to your designs.
3. Smaller file sizes
As mentioned before, SVGs are XML code which means that they are usually much smaller file sizes than your traditional JPG and PNG files. This is useful particularly when it comes to web development as it helps you keep your website loading time fast, meaning better SEO scores.
4. Accessibility and inclusivity
SVGs allow designers to add structural data to visual elements in the graphic within the file itself, this allows anyone using assistive technology to understand what is contained within an image. Alternatively, raster images rely solely on metadata (alt text) to describe the contents of the graphic.
SVGs also offer designers and developers a variety of ways to create and edit them. You can edit the code directly or you can use a software like illustrator to edit the file if you don’t have knowledge on the coding side of things.
SVGs are a lot more versatile to use than traditional JPG and PNG formats. They offer a lot more control and ensure the quality of your image does not change. They offer lossless compression which is useful for keeping your file sizes. If you haven’t been using SVGs, you should definitely consider adding them to your workflow.
