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How to Edit Pictures in Adobe Illustrator?

Published in Image Editing 4 mins read

You can edit raster images by opening them in Adobe Illustrator, but Illustrator is primarily a vector-based program, therefore its image editing capabilities are not as robust as a dedicated photo editor like Adobe Photoshop. Here’s how to edit pictures, which includes raster images, in Illustrator:

Steps to Edit Pictures in Adobe Illustrator

Follow these simple steps to edit your images:

  1. Select the Image: First, choose the image you want to work with. This could be a raster image like a JPEG, PNG or a TIFF, that is already imported or linked in your illustrator document.

  2. Edit with Illustrator: Right-click on the selected image. From the context menu, select the option "Edit With Illustrator". This opens the image in a new Illustrator document.

  3. Edit the Image: Now you can use Illustrator’s tools to adjust the image:

    • Basic Adjustments: Change colors, brightness, contrast and saturation using the "Edit" menu's options related to "Color Adjustments."
    • Cropping & Resizing: Use the Artboard tool, the bounding box or the Crop image function under object menu to resize or crop your image.
    • Filters & Effects: You can apply filters and effects from the "Effect" menu. However these are mainly designed for vector graphics, so results may vary with raster images.
    • Masking: Use clipping masks to hide parts of the image using vector shapes, providing creative possibilities.
    • Tracing: Convert raster image to vector art, using the image trace feature under object menu for unique effects.
    • Adding Vector Elements: Incorporate shapes, text and paths to the image to enhance its overall look.

  4. Save or Export: Once you are satisfied with your edits:

    • Use File > Save to save the image in Illustrator's native .ai format. This retains the edits and layers, making further adjustments easy.
    • Use File > Export to save the image in a raster format like JPEG, PNG, or TIFF if you need to use the image outside of Illustrator or if you need a flattened image.

  5. Close Illustrator: Select File > Exit to close the Illustrator window. Changes will be saved and you can either continue working with image or use it further according to your needs.

Key Considerations

  • Raster vs. Vector: Remember Illustrator is primarily a vector graphics program. While you can make edits, advanced raster-based editing, like detailed retouching, is better suited for programs like Photoshop.
  • File Formats: If you want to preserve image quality or editing layers, consider saving your final work in Illustrator's native .ai format. However, you'll want to export your image in common formats, like JPEG or PNG for web or sharing purposes.
  • Performance: Working with large raster images can affect Illustrator's performance. Consider reducing image resolution or file size if you experience slowdowns.
  • Image Editing Capabilities: Do not expect photo editing experience or capabilities similar to programs like Photoshop or GIMP. Illustrator's strength lies in vector art and design.
Step Action Description
1 Select Image Choose the raster image to edit.
2 Edit With Illustrator Open image in a new Illustrator document.
3 Edit the Image Apply adjustments, crops, filters, etc.
4 Save or Export Save in .ai format or export to JPEG/PNG.
5 Close Adobe Illustrator Exit the program

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