In computer graphics, image tracing, raster-to-vector conversion or raster vectorization is the conversion of raster graphics into vector graphics.
Signature of Christopher Columbus as JPEG image (1,308 × 481 pixel), 63 kB
A photograph in JPEG format, 25 KB
Vector graphics are a form of computer graphics in which visual images are created directly from geometric shapes defined on a Cartesian plane, such as points, lines, curves and polygons. The associated mechanisms may include vector display and printing hardware, vector data models and file formats, as well as the software based on these data models. Vector graphics are an alternative to raster or bitmap graphics, with each having advantages and disadvantages in specific situations.
A free software Asteroids-like video game played on a vector monitor
Original reference photo before vectorization