Converting Raster Image to Vector Image

[mc3]

I have a Raster Image, a logo that was designed in photoshop (at 300 dpi), that I need to import into Illustrator to create a vector object. I need to make the logo a vector object because I will be importing it into a 3D animation program.

The problem I am having is that when I place the raster image into Illustrator, it looks distorted.

- I am viewing at 100%
- the raster image was created in photoshop at 300 dpi and saved as a jpeg
- The Illustrator document setup is at 300 ppi for Rasterization resolution

Why am I getting a distorted image? How can I correct this?

Thanks

Mc3

ps - will use the Auto Trace Tool to convert to vector, but I need to solve the distortion problem 1st

 

[SPYDERIX]

Hi,

I want to know the exact same thing. I have a logo I made in Photoshop and used only basic photoshop techniques (no 3rd party filters) and would like to convert it to vector so I can make an .eps and so I don't have to worry about resolution and so I can resize it as big as I need to. It is in a .psd file right now with all the layers still in tact. The shapes are all basic shapes (oval, circular-triangle, 1/4 ovals, and custom bends that I know can be made into paths). The image uses gradients, adjustment layers, curves and patterns that I have defined as well as the PS twirl filter, bevel sytle, and texture style.

I think that this should be an easy process but I don't know anything about Illustrator and I have the same problem as mc3 where my .psd file is really small when it says it's at 100% and looks jagged and un-even.

Can anyone helps me too.

Thanks alot~! NATE

design@spyderix-designz.com

http://www.spyderix-designz.com

 

[carlow]

hi.

The distortion of the placed file is probably because you saved as an jpeg. Jpeg is a compressed format and therefore will always loose in quality. When I import PS files in Illustrator I use the native psd format or I save as a photoshop pdf.
Be sure not to copy and paste or drag the photoshop file into Illustrator use the file>place command.

Use the autotrace Tool for converting to vectors. To be able to do so, you must place the photoshop file with the template function enabled.
But I must tell you that the result of all this isn't going to be very good. Because of the limits of the autotracing tool, but also because you won't be able to trace the various effects you applied to the image.

I always find it better to use Illustrator for logo's. Create your shapes and all the other stuff you wan't to use in Illustrator, because this is a vector programm. And if the effects you wan't to use are not available in Illustrator than you must go to Photoshop. But it will never be as crisp as the Illustrator logo

hope this helps
grillhouse

 

[SPYDERIX]

Hi,

As I mentioned above, I am importing a .psd file not a .jpg so why is my .psd file all jagged and really small when viewed at 100%?

You will have to explain this auto trace tool to me too. I don't know AI at all.

Thanks alot! NATE

design@spyderix-designz.com

http://www.spyderix-designz.com

 

[carlow]

Hi,

What are the dimensions of the psd file.

The autotrace tool is hidden in the toolbar. It's on the left of the graph tool. If you click on the bland tool, you will see the autotrace tool.

As I mentioned when you place the psd file you get on the bottom of the place window the mention link template and the replace with the square next to it. Click the square next to template. Now your image is placed in illustrator with a red checkbox around it.. With the psd file selected, you select the autotrace tool and when you click on a certain portion of the file and you will see that the autotrace tool will select some pixels who are similar in colour and so on.

But again you only will be able to select some forms, you won't be able to to select the effects you used in Photoshop.

Hope this helps
grillhouse

 

[blueark]

I find that placing images in Illustrator doesn't necessarily give you the best results. However, going to File > Open... and selecting your raster file directly usually gives you a nice clean image to work with.

Also, Autotrace is usually rubbish! You're sometimes better off tracing the shapes manually in Illustrator, but if your budget stretches to Adobe Streamline it should save you a lot of trouble.

 

[SPYDERIX]

Hi,

I tried the place command and FILE|OPEN, but it still comes out looking like crap.

Any other suggestions. NATE

design@spyderix-designz.com

http://www.spyderix-designz.com

 

[askIllustrator]

Its best to think of your AI file, as far as tracing goes, as a wire-frame. Recreate any blends and highlights using gradients, styles or both. If your preparing for a 3D app, make sure you flatten it, save as 8.0 (few 3d apps understand 9.0 yet) and clear your guides as those usually get imported too. BEHOLD! As Steve Jobs introduces us the latest in desk-lamp technology!

http://www.apple.com