Shutterstock images are divided into two separate categories. By offering our customers the ability to browse our photos and vector images separately, we hope to not only enhance the shopping experience but also cut down on the time it takes for our customers to find the perfect image.

Vector Images Explained

While most people associate the word image with a photo, a vector file is also an image. Unlike a photo, which is made up of a fixed number of colored pixels, a vector file is made by using mathematical formulas. In essence, it is a digital illustration. Such vector files can be deep edited, tweaked, and resized easily without any damage to their overall resolution. Items such as forms, text, and colors can be easily changed in a vector image because the image is based on defined planes and points instead of on pixels.

Opening EPS Vector Files

A Shutterstock vector file cannot be opened without a vector editor because it has an EPS format.  Some of the more well-known vector editing software programs include Adobe Illustrator.  All of the vectors available from Shutterstock are compatible with the industry standard program, Adobe Illustrator. Customers who have difficulty opening a vector file purchased from Shutterstock should try opening it with Adobe Illustrator, as other programs may not have the needed features.

Check out this useful blog post where we provide detailed coverage on using EPS vector files. 

Un-Grouping Objects – Customers who find they cannot edit an object without also editing others might need to ungroup the objects.  To do this, use the selection tool, then click on the object.  By right-clicking and pressing the Ctrl key at the same time, objects will be either grouped or ungrouped.

Additional assistance with vector files can be found by visiting the Adobe Illustrator support page.