Introduction to Computer Graphics

The term 'Computer Graphics' was coined by Verne Hudson and William Fetter from Boeing who were pioneers in the field. Computer graphics is a dynamic and essential field within computing that involves the creation, manipulation, and rendering of visual content using computers.

In today's digital era, computer graphics technologies have revolutionized how we perceive and interact with visual information, playing a pivotal role in video games, movies, architectural design, medical imaging, and more. There are several tools used for the implementation of Computer Graphics. The basic is the graphics.h header file in Turbo-C, Unity for advanced, and even OpenGL can be used for its Implementation.

This article delves into the fundamental concepts of computer graphics, its diverse applications, and the underlying technologies that drive innovation in this field.

What is Computer Graphics?

Computer Graphics including digital images, animations, and interactive graphics used in various sectors such as entertainment, education, scientific visualization, and virtual reality. Computer Graphics can be used in UI design, rendering, geometric objects, animation, and many more. In most areas, computer graphics is an abbreviation of CG.

Computer Graphics refers to several things

• The manipulation and the representation of the image or the data in a graphical manner.
• Various technology is required for the creation and manipulation.
• Digital synthesis and its manipulation.

Types of Computer Graphics

• Raster Graphics: In raster, graphics pixels are used for an image to be drawn. It is also known as a bitmap image in which a sequence of images is into smaller pixels. Basically, a bitmap indicates a large number of pixels together.
• Vector Graphics: In vector graphics , mathematical formulae are used to draw different types of shapes, lines, objects, and so on.

Applications of Computer Graphics

There are many applications of computer graphics discussed below-

• Computer Graphics are used for the aided design of systems engineering and architectural systems- These are used in electrical automobiles and electro-mechanical, and electronic devices. For example gears and bolts.
• Computer Art - MS Paint.
• Presentation Graphics - It is used to summarize financial statistical scientific or economic data. For example- Bar charts systems and line charts.
• Entertainment- It is used in motion pictures, music videos, and television gaming.
• Education and training- It is used to understand the operations of complex systems. It is also used for specialized systems such as framing for captains, pilots, and so on.
• Visualization- To study trends and patterns. For example- Analyzing satellite photos of earth.

Why are Computer Graphics used?

Imagine a car manufacturing company that wants to showcase its vehicle sales over the past decade. Storing and presenting this huge amount of data can be both time-consuming and memory-intensive. Furthermore, it can be difficult for the average person to understand. In such cases, by using graphics can be a more effective solution. By using charts and graphs to visually signify the data, it becomes much easier to understand and analyse the data.

Interactive computer graphics utilize a two-way communication concept between users and computers. The computer receives input signals from the user, and the picture is modified accordingly. When a command is applied, the picture updates promptly.

How To Get Started in Computer Graphics

Step by step process to getting started with computer graphics-

Step-1: Understaind the basics

Learn the fundamental and basics of computer graphics such as rendering, shading, animation, and modeling. Learn basic concepts of mathematics like linear algebra, geometry, and calculus as well as basic principles of physics that support computer graphics.

Step-2: Choose Your Area of Interest

Choose your area of interest like 2D-Graphics, 3D-Graphics, Animation, and special effect (VFX).

Step-3: Learn Programming

Learn programming language that is used in graphics, such as Python, C++, and JavaScript. Learn about Graphics Libraries and APIs like OpenGL, Vulkan, DirectX, and frameworks like WebGL that is used in web based graphics.

Step-4: Use Graphics Software

Learn about modeling and animation tools such as Blender, Autodesk Maya, or 3ds Max for 3D modeling and animation. Learn about 2D-Graphics software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and GIMP.

Step-5: Study and Practice

Take online courses and tutorials, many institution offer Computer Graphics course like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy. And read textbooks like "Computer Graphics: Principles and Practice" by John F. Hughes. Now, Starts with simple projects, such as creating basic shapes and gradually move on to more complex scenes and animations.

Step-6: Create a portfolio of your work

create your own projects and build an online portfolio to display your work, which is helpful for job application.

Step-7: Apply for jobs in computer graphics

If you aim to build a career in computer graphics and grow in this field, gaining experience is important. Search for entry-level positions, freelance, contract work, and internships. When searching for jobs, read the descriptions carefully to understand the responsibilities, required qualifications, and company details. This will help you find roles that align with your career goals and skill set.