How to vectorize an image in Illustrator

If you want to vectorize an image in Illustrator, you can do it with the Image Tracking function.It's the fastest way to convert a raster image like JPG or PNG to vector graphics that can be scaled without quality loss.It is especially useful if you want to turn a logo, icon, simple illustration or black and white drawing into an editable vector file.

In this guide, you will get a step-by-step explanation of how to vectorize an image in Adobe Illustrator, when automatic vectorization works best, and what you need to pay attention to to get a nice result.

What does it mean to vectorize an image?

Vectorizing an image means converting a pixel-based image into vector graphics.A regular image in JPG or PNG consists of pixels, while a vector file consists of lines, curves and surfaces that are built up mathematically.

The advantage of vector graphics is that it can be scaled up and down without losing sharpness.Therefore vector is typically used for:

• * logos
• * icons
• * illustrations
• * signs
• * printed matter
• * graphics for print and production

If you only have an image in raster format, Illustrator can help you convert it to vector.

When does vectorization work best in Illustrator?

Illustrator's automatic vectorization works best on images with:

• * clear shapes
• * high contrast
• * few colors
• * sharp contours
• * simple graphics

This means that the function is well suited for:

• * logos
• * pictograms
• * line drawings
• * silhouettes
• * simple illustrations

It works less well on:

• * photographs
• * complex images
• * blurred subjects
• * images with many details and color transitions

The simpler and cleaner your starting point is, the better the result.

How to vectorize an image in Illustrator

Here you get the simplest method to vectorize an image in Illustrator.

1. Open the image in Illustrator

Start by opening Adobe Illustrator and creating a new document.Then go to File > Place and paste the image you want to vectorize.

It can be a JPG, PNG or other raster file.

Once the image is positioned, select it with the selection tool.

2. Open Image Tracking

When the image is selected, you will typically see the Image Tracking button in the top menu.You can also open the panel via:

• Window > Image Tracking

Here you get access to Illustrator's tool for automatic vectorization.

3. Select an appropriate preset

Illustrator has several default settings that depend on the type of image you are working with.The most used are:

• * Black and white logo for simple logos and line drawings
• * 3 colors / 6 colors / 16 colors for simple graphics with a limited color palette
• * Grayscale for images without colors
• * High Resolution Photo or Low Resolution Photo for more complex images

If you want to vectorize a logo or simple illustration, Black and White Logo or a low color setting will often give the best results.

4. Adjust the settings

Once you've selected a preset, you can fine-tune the result.The most important settings are typically:

• #### Threshold

Threshold controls how much of the image is perceived as black or dark.If you work with black and white graphics, this setting can have a big impact on how much detail is included.

Lanes

Paths determine how closely Illustrator follows the shapes of the image.Higher value gives more precision, but also more anchor points.

Corners

Corners controls how sharp the corners in the graphic will be.It is useful for logos and icons.

Noise

Noise helps to ignore small details and impurities.A higher value can make the result cleaner, especially if the original is a bit dirty or gritty.

You often get the best result by testing a few different combinations.

5. Click on Expand

When you are satisfied with the preview, click Expand in the top menu.

Now the automatic image tracking is transformed into actual vector objects.This means that the graphics now consist of editable paths and surfaces instead of an embedded raster image.

6. Clean up the vector

After expansion, you should almost always do some cleanup.Automatic vectorization rarely gives a perfect result without post-processing.

You can now:

• * delete unnecessary forms
• * adjust curves
• * straighten uneven edges
• * collect items
• * change colors
• * simplify the graphics

Use tools like Direct Selection, Pen Tool and Simplification if you want to make the result cleaner.

How to get a better result

If you want a nicer vectorization in Illustrator, the quality of the original image is important.Preferably start with a file that is as sharp and clean as possible.

Here are some simple ways to improve the result:

Use a high contrast image

A clear image with clear shapes is much easier to vectorize than a blurry or grainy image.

Remove the background first

If your subject is on top of a messy background, it may be beneficial to clean up the image first, so that Illustrator only has to focus on what's important.

Use fewer colors

If the target is a simple vector, working with a few colors often gives a better result than trying to preserve everything.

Zoom in and check the details

What looks fine from a distance may be uneven up close.Check especially borders, text and small shapes.

Expect post-processing

Automatic vectorization is fast, but rarely perfect.Professional results often require manual adjustment afterwards.

Can you vectorize text in Illustrator?

Yes, but there is an important detail.If the text is already part of the image, Illustrator will try to trace the shapes visually.This means that the letters are often not quite accurate, especially if the original is small or blurry.

If you want a nice result with text, it is usually better to:

• * identify the font
• * write the text up again
• * combine it with manual cleaning

This applies especially to logos, where typography often has to be absolutely correct.

Automatic vectorization vs.manual cleaning

Illustrator's image tracking is good for quick conversions, but automatic vectorization isn't always enough.If you are working with an important logo or graphic that needs to be used professionally, manual clean drawing may be the best solution.

Automatic vectorization is best for:

• * simple forms
• * quick tasks
• * icons
• * line graphics
• * rough drafts

Manual cleaning is best for:

• * professional logos
• * precise typography
• * fire material
• * print files
• * graphics with high quality requirements

Many therefore use automatic vectorization as the first step and refine the result manually afterwards.

Which file formats should you save in?

When you're done vectorizing your image in Illustrator, you should save the file in a proper vector format.The most relevant formats are:

• * AI for further editing in Illustrator
• * SVG for web and digital solutions
• * EPS for printing and exchange with other systems
• * PDF for sharing and printing if the vector content is preserved

If you save as JPG or PNG again, the result will be rasterized and you will lose the benefits of vector graphics.

Typical mistakes when vectorizing an image in Illustrator

There are some mistakes many people make the first time they try to vectorize an image.

Expectation of perfect automatic result

Image tracking is a great tool, but not magic.You often have to clean up afterwards.

Use of too bad original image

A small, blurry or compressed image almost always produces a worse result.

Too many anchor points

If the tracing becomes too detailed, you will get a heavy and uneven vector.This can make the file more difficult to edit.

Wrong preset

If you use photo settings on a simple logo, or vice versa, the result is often worse than necessary.

No post-editing

Even a good autotracked vector should be checked manually, especially if it is to be used professionally.

When should you not use automatic vectorization?

There are cases where automatic vectorization in Illustrator is not the best solution.

This applies in particular if:

• * the logo is blurred or very small
• * the text must be completely correct
• * the graphics must be used for professional printing
• * you work with detailed branding
• * the original file is too bad

In those cases, manual recording will often give a much nicer and more accurate result.

Conclusion

If you want to know how to vectorize an image in Illustrator, the short version is this: Place the image, use Image Tracking, adjust the settings, click Expand, then clean up the result.

It's a fast and efficient way to convert simple raster images to vector, especially when working with logos, icons and illustrations with distinct shapes.

But also remember that automatic vectorization does not always give a perfect result.If the graphics are to be used professionally, manual post-processing or clean drawing is often necessary to obtain a really sharp and usable vector file.

FAQ: How to vectorize an image in Illustrator

How to vectorize an image in Illustrator?

You select the image, open Image Tracking, select an appropriate setting, adjust the details, then click Extend to turn the result into editable vector graphics.

Can Illustrator convert JPG to vector?

Yes, Adobe Illustrator can convert a JPG to vector using the Image Tracking feature.However, the result depends a lot on the quality and complexity of the image.

Can you vectorize a PNG in Illustrator?

Yes, a PNG can be vectorized in the same way as a JPG.A PNG with a transparent background and clear shapes is often easier to work with.

Is automatic vectorization good enough for logos?

This may be enough for simple logos, but for professional use, logos often require manual clean-up to ensure clean lines, correct typography and precise proportions.

What format should I save in after vectorization?

Preferably save in AI, SVG, EPS or PDF if you want to keep the graphic as a vector.

Why is the result uneven?

This is often due to a bad original image, too many details or wrong settings in the image tracking.Post-editing is often necessary to get a nice result.