In Canvas, you could always modify objects with image-editing techniques — if you converted the objects to images; however, you lost the ability to edit vector paths and text. Also, applying filters and adjustments would change an image permanently. The Canvas SpriteEffects technology lets you apply image filters and adjustments to vector objects, images, text, and grouped objects.
You can apply effects temporarily, adjust effects settings, change the order of effects, and hide or remove effects individually. You don’t have to use Undo or save intermediate versions to preserve an original illustration, since objects remain editable. You can still edit object paths, insert and delete text, as well as change inks and strokes.
When SpriteEffects are printed or exported to file formats outside of Canvas, the effects are rendered as images. This is like taking a snapshot of the objects and printing the resulting image. In your Canvas documents, the objects keep their original editing features.
Before SpriteEffects, commands such as Blur, Hue/Saturation, Invert, Emboss, Twirl, and many others could be applied to paint objects (images) only. SpriteEffects technology offers new power and flexibility for creative art, technical illustration, and graphics production.