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

# Loading an image into Pycairo

Before we look at the `SurfacePattern`, we will take a quick look at how we can load an image into Pycairo.

`Surface` provides a `create_from_png` class method that reads a PNG image from a file, creates a suitable surface, and fills the surface with the image pixels. Here is how it can be used:


import cairo
import math

image = cairo.ImageSurface.create_from_png('tiger.png')
print("width:", image.get_width())
print("height:", image.get_height())

image.write_to_png('output/image.png')

This code reads in a PNG file called `tiger.png`, but we can use any PNG image. The newly-created surface, called image, is queried for size and format. The image is 400 by 400 pixels, which the code above will print when run:

```
width: 400

height: 400
```

When the `image.write_to_png` function is called, the image will be written out in the `image.png` file. This will be an identical copy of the original image because we didn’t do anything to change it.


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

Working with Images

Loading an image into Pycairo