Is there any way to convert jpeg images into vector?

Question

I need to convert a jpeg image i have into vector format. Its a simple image, kind of like a logo, with two solid colors that would be ideal for a vector image.

I have illustrator, but to my dismay have no idea how to use it. I'm mostly photoshop. Anyway, I need a way to convert that jpeg into a vector. An illustrator tut (if possible) would be ideal. You could link to a tut that shows me how or if you know what your doing, just right it here.

If its not in illustrator, the convertion for me has to be free. No $75 programs that do it for me :). I greatly appreaciate your help.

Answer 1

To put it nicely, a jpeg is a Bitmap--once a Bitmap graphic, always a Bitmap graphic. Illustrator can display a Bitmap as an embedded object, but the format doesn't really change. The only way to get a Bitmap to become Vector is to trace the Bitmap in Illustrator.

FYI...When Vector graphics are pasted or imported into Bitmap editors the editor converts the Vector image to Bitmap as soon as it is brought in. Once a Vector image is converted to Bitmap, there is no way to return to the original state. Make sure you make copies of your files before you try to manipulate them.

Answer 2

You have two options. You can trace it using the pen tool or you can live trace it using a click of a button. The live trace is very cheesy and may produce unexpected results or something weird that you didn't want. However with the pen tool, you have full control. But it takes some practice to get used to using it since your drawing with points and line segments and not pixels.

Illustrator is a great program, I'd recommend trying it out.

Answer 3

Definitely stick with Illustrator. Its AI files are vector graphics. I know that you have to trace the image in illustrator, but I don't know how personally. I just know that this is what you do. :-) What can I say? I'm a PS guy too.

I'll go Google around and get back to you if I find anything.

EDIT: Well I'll be. Here's a tutorial on how to trace another image. :-)

http://www.ndesign-studio.com/resources/...

Good luck!

Answer 4

Illustrator has a full tutorial located under its help menu.

Scroll to bottom of this link and look for "Getting started"

http://www.adobe.com/products/illustrato...