How Do I Change a Vector in Photoshop?
Photoshop isn't primarily a vector editing program; it excels at raster (pixel-based) images. While you can't directly manipulate vector data within Photoshop like you would in Illustrator, you can import, use, and export vector graphics with some limitations. This answer addresses different interpretations of "changing a vector" in Photoshop.
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Opening Vector Files: You can open vector files (like .AI, .EPS, .SVG) in Photoshop. They are imported as rasterized images, meaning they're converted into pixels. This conversion means further vector editing isn't possible within Photoshop. See reference: How To Open And Use Vectors In Photoshop - VectorGuru
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Modifying Imported Vectors: Once imported as a rasterized image, you can use Photoshop's tools (like the Lasso, Pen, or selection tools) to select parts of the imported vector image and make changes. This will change the rasterized version, not the original vector file. You can alter color, add effects, or erase parts. However, enlarging a rasterized image will cause pixelation, unlike a true vector which scales perfectly. See reference: Convert to vector image in Photoshop: the tutorial! | Oppaca
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Exporting as a Vector (Limited): If you create text or shapes within Photoshop using vector-based tools, you can export these specific elements as vector files (.SVG or .PDF). However, this only applies to those elements initially created with Photoshop's vector tools; it won't work with rasterized vector imports. See reference: Solved: Changing a PDF or JPG into a VECTOR in Photoshop ...
Changing Color in a Rasterized Vector
If you've imported a vector image and rasterized it, color changes are straightforward:
- Use the adjustment layers (Hue/Saturation, Color Balance, etc.) to modify the colors globally or selectively using masks.
- Use the paint tools (Brush, Pencil) to paint directly onto the image.
- Use the replace color tool to change specific colors.
See reference: Solved: How can I change black and white vector to a speci ...
True Vector Editing Requires Illustrator
For true vector editing—manipulating paths, anchor points, and other vector-specific properties—you should use Adobe Illustrator or a similar vector graphics editor. Photoshop is not designed for this task. See reference: Vectorize Image - Adobe Illustrator
