Gain insights into computer graphics with Python's Pycairo library. Learn about pixel vs. vector graphics, create complex shapes, work with transforms, text, gradients, and more for VR and game development.

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Pycairo

In this course, you will use Python’s Pycairo library to draw complex shapes. So if you have an appetite for virtual reality, or game development, then this course will serve you well.

You will start with basic concepts like: What is the difference between pixel and vector graphics? After that, you will learn to make basic drawings and then you will move on to complex shapes. Throughout, you will cover important concepts like transform and state, working with text, gradients, and a whole lot more.

By the time you finish this course, you will have a powerful new library at your disposal, and you’ll be able to construct beautiful graphics that users will love.

Computer Graphics in Python and Pycairo

## Storing vector graphics

**Vector images** take a different approach to storing images. Instead of storing the pixels that make up the image, a vector graphics file stores a list of instructions for how to draw the image. Here is an example of a scalable vector graphics (SVG) file. SVG  is a widely-used vector format that is based on XML. It is supported by all the modern web browsers and is the main file format used by the popular open-source vector image editor, Inkscape.

Don’t worry about the details. We will probably never have to edit, or even look at, an SVG file in real life. This is just an illustration, used to give us an idea of what a vector graphics file might look like:

# Storing vector graphics

**Vector images** take a different approach to storing images. Instead of storing the pixels that make up the image, a vector graphics file stores a list of instructions for how to draw the image. Here is an example of a scalable vector graphics (SVG) file. SVG  is a widely-used vector format that is based on XML. It is supported by all the modern web browsers and is the main file format used by the popular open-source vector image editor, Inkscape.

Don’t worry about the details. We will probably never have to edit, or even look at, an SVG file in real life. This is just an illustration, used to give us an idea of what a vector graphics file might look like:

Learn how to store and render an SVG file.

Introduction

Introduction to Vector Graphics

Basic Drawing Operations

Paths and Complex Shapes

Computer Color

Transforms and State

Working with Text

Gradients and Image Fills

Clipping, Masking and Compositing

Surfaces and Output Formats

Integration with Other Libraries

Conclusion

Vector Graphics

Storing vector graphics