Digital Media & Content Creation Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'mask' in Adobe Photoshop or After Effects?

Answer: To hide or reveal portions of a layer without permanently deleting pixels

Masks use black and white values to hide or reveal parts of a layer non-destructively, so the hidden pixels are not deleted and can be restored.

What does 'frame rate' (fps) determine in a video project?

Answer: The number of individual frames displayed per second, affecting motion smoothness

Frame rate determines how many still frames are shown per second; higher frame rates like 60fps produce smoother motion compared to 24fps.

In Adobe Illustrator, what is the 'Pathfinder' panel used for?

Answer: Combining, subtracting, or intersecting overlapping vector shapes to create new shapes

The Pathfinder panel offers shape mode operations (Unite, Minus Front, Intersect, Exclude) to create complex new shapes from overlapping vector objects.

What is the primary advantage of using SVG format for web graphics?

Answer: SVG files are resolution-independent vector files that scale without pixelation

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is an XML-based vector format that scales to any resolution without losing quality, making it ideal for icons and logos on the web.

Which principle of design refers to the arrangement of elements so that no single part of the composition dominates in a way that feels unstable?

Answer: Balance

Balance distributes visual weight evenly (symmetrically) or intentionally (asymmetrically) so the composition feels stable and harmonious.

In Adobe Premiere Pro, what is the purpose of 'color grading'?

Answer: Adjusting and stylizing the color, tone, and mood of video footage

Color grading involves adjusting hues, contrast, saturation, and tone to establish a visual mood or ensure consistent color across all footage.

What does 'rasterizing' a vector layer in Photoshop do?

Answer: Converts vector shape or text data into pixel-based raster image data

Rasterizing converts a vector or type layer into pixel data, which is required before applying certain pixel-based filters but removes the ability to re-edit the original vector properties.