Vectorization is a procedure that transforms raster (bitmap) images into smooth lines and shapes that can be scaled to any size without losing quality. It’s essential for designers to understand how to do this since vector files are the most versatile file formats for print design, and they can be used with any printing approach– from screen printing to cutting vinyl decals to digital printing.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of vectorizing a photo or raster image using Adobe Illustrator. We’ll also discuss a few of the pitfalls you might experience along the way, and give you ideas for preventing them.

The main reason that vectorization is needed is because raster files lose quality when they are bigger. This is since pixels are tiny squares that are packed together to create an image, and as they are bigger, those squares become pixelated. Vector graphics, on the other hand, are made from smooth curves and lines– which are always crisp at any size. This is why vector art looks so great on things like business cards and leaflets.
You can find vectorized artwork in a wide array of locations, from movie posters to tattoos and even clothes. It’s a typical method for artists to use, and it can make their work stand out from the crowd.
vectorized format
The vectorization process is fairly simple, but there are a couple of things that you must keep in mind before starting. First, make sure to select a premium image. A low-resolution photo will have a great deal of artifacts that will hinder the last vector graphic, and it will take much longer to process.
Next, ensure the image is correctly cropped. This will ensure that only the part of the image that you wish to vectorize is consisted of. Lastly, choose a preset that is proper for the kind of image you’re working with. For instance, a complex picture will take advantage of the High Fidelity Photo setting, while a basic image might work best with a Custom Palette choice that limits the number of colors used in the resulting vector graphic.
To start, pick the image that you want to vectorize in Adobe Illustrator and open the Image Trace panel (Window > Image Trace). You’ll see a great deal of settings that allow you to tweak the tracing process, but we advise starting with among the presets.
A good place to begin is the High Fidelity Photo alternative, which instantly adjusts the tracing settings to match the image’s pixel density. When you’re pleased with the outcomes, you can use the other settings to additional fine-tune the image and produce a flawless vector graphic. For example, the Path slider lets you manage how closely the image’s paths follow its pixels. A lower value will produce shorter courses that are more abstract, while a greater worth will result in sharper and more comprehensive edges. You can likewise play with the color intricacy settings to change how the paths are rendered.