If you are new to digitization, it is crucial to understand why JPG files need to be converted into vector images. Vector images are known for their versatile nature and the characteristic attributes that smooth digitization processes.
Out of several beneficial attributes, the most attractive feature is that it allows scalability by retaining the quality of the image.
Usually, when an image is scaled up, it loses its quality and becomes blurred and unclear.
Another practical reason vector images stand out from the crowd and are designers’ favourite file format is their flexibility and ease of editing and making adjustments.
Basically, a vector image defines the image based on lines, shapes, and colours, making it very simple to edit one or a few elements without damaging the whole image.
Last but not least, vector images in high resolution usually have smaller file sizes than JPG images. The smaller size makes it easier for designers and users to utilize them more conveniently, smoothly, and efficiently.
5 Steps to Convert Your JPG File to Vector Image Using Illustrator
Here are five easy steps to convert your JPG file into a vector image using Adobe Illustrator.
Step 1 – Launch Abode Illustrator
To convert your JPG image into a vector file, first launch Adobe Illustrator on your system.
Once it is launched, open the required JPG file you want to convert. To open the image in Adobe Illustrator, go to the File menu at the top and select Open. You will then be prompted to choose a file from your files.
Step 2 – Tracing the File
When you open your file in Adobe Illustrator, you must select it for tracing, which is one of the most critical steps. For this step, prepare your image by clicking on it so Adobe Illustrator can highlight it.
Moreover, it is time to open the preview to see what the changes you have made look like.
To select the image trace option, go to the control bar or properties panel. This option automatically converts raster image files into vector files, which is our requirement.
It uses shapes, lines, and colours to trace the image; hence, it is worth trusting to retain the original elements of the image.
Step 3 – Choosing Presets and Modes
Illustrator has some useful presets for the convenience of designers. These presets help to perform various tasks automatically.
Particularly, to convert JPG images to vector images, there are specified presets in Illustrator known as Image trace presets.
You need to:
- Go to the dropdown menu of the image trace
- Find a variety of presets
- Choose the one which suits your needs
It is important to note that whether you are utilizing the presets or not, you can adjust the settings, which offers you complete flexibility. From different modes to colours, from path adjustment to noise settings, you can bring changes accordingly.
Step 4 – Creating Layers
Once you have made the adjustments according to your needs, it is time to trace the image. Click the trace button and wait for a few moments.
The time it will take to complete the tracing depends on the type, size, and other settings.
Although your image has been traced, to handle it you need to expand your image. Ensure that your image is selected, go to the object, click expand, and then move ahead by tapping OK.
It will convert your image into a vector composed of several layers.
These layers make it easy to make changes to any of them, but before doing so, make sure to ungroup the layers. Just right-click the image you are working on and select ungroup.
Step 5 – Make Adjustments & Save the File
Once you ungroup the layers, you can treat each layer separately and do whatever you want. Once you finish the adjustments, save and export your vector file.
Select a file, save it, and save your image as SVG.
Now, you can use, access, and share it conveniently. Moreover, if you think you might need some more alterations at any time, save your Illustrator file. It will help you in editing from here and not starting from scratch.
Conclusion
No matter if you are a newbie or seasonal designer, at times, you need quick guidance. This guide briefly discusses all the important steps for converting your JPG file into a vector image.
By following the five simple steps, you can transform your raster image into a vector file in Adobe Illustrator conveniently.
The vector file allows you to work more comfortably with each single layer to create high-quality results with scalability.