Illustrator Image Trace is a powerful function in Adobe Illustrator that allows you to automatically convert pixel-based images (like JPEGs or PNGs) into vector graphics. This process is often referred to as Autotracing.
Understanding Image Trace
Essentially, Image Trace analyzes the pixels in your source image and creates editable vector paths based on the shapes and colors it detects. Unlike pixel-based images which lose quality when scaled up, vector graphics are composed of mathematical equations, meaning they can be resized infinitely without any loss of resolution.
According to the reference, "With the Image Trace function, you can vectorize pixel-based images automatically in Illustrator. People often refer to this kind of function as Autotracing." This highlights the core capability and its common alternative name.
Why Use Image Trace?
Tracing an image is useful for various design tasks:
- Logos: Convert a low-resolution or hand-drawn logo sketch into a scalable vector format.
- Illustrations: Turn scans of drawings or paintings into clean, editable vector art.
- Icons: Create sharp, scalable icons from pixel-based sources.
- Typography: Convert rasterized text or unique lettering into editable vector shapes.
- Preparing for print or cutting: Vector graphics are often required for large-format printing, vinyl cutters, and other specialized equipment.
How Image Trace Works
When you apply Image Trace to a raster image in Illustrator, the software analyzes the image data. You can then adjust various settings to control how the tracing is performed. Once satisfied with the preview, you "Expand" the trace, which converts the traced result into actual vector paths and shapes that you can edit with Illustrator's tools.
Factors Affecting Results
The reference states, "The results depend on the nature, quality, and size of the source image and the settings you choose in Illustrator." This is crucial:
- Source Image: A high-contrast, clear image with well-defined edges will generally produce better tracing results than a blurry or complex photograph. The quality (resolution) and size also play a significant role.
- Settings: Illustrator offers numerous settings in the Image Trace panel (e.g., Mode, Palette, Threshold, Paths, Corners, Noise) that allow you to customize the tracing process. Choosing the right settings is key to achieving the desired outcome, whether it's a simple silhouette or a detailed color trace.
Practical Application
Here’s a basic workflow for using Image Trace:
- Place your pixel-based image into an Illustrator document (
File > Place). - Select the image.
- Go to
Object > Image Trace > Makeor click the "Image Trace" button in the Control panel. Illustrator applies a default trace. - Open the Image Trace Panel (
Window > Image Trace) to refine settings. - Experiment with different Presets (like Sketched Art, Low Color Logo, High Fidelity Photo) or manually adjust advanced settings.
- Once the trace looks right in the preview, click the Expand button in the Control panel or Image Trace panel.
- Your image is now a group of vector paths! You may need to ungroup (
Object > Ungroup) or release (Object > Image Trace > Release) and clean up the result depending on your needs.
Using Image Trace effectively often requires some experimentation with settings to get the best possible conversion from your specific source image.
Image Comparison: Raster vs. Vector (after Trace)
Here’s a simple comparison of the core properties:
| Feature | Raster Image (Source) | Vector Graphic (After Image Trace & Expand) |
|---|---|---|
| Made of | Pixels | Paths, Lines, Curves, Shapes |
| Scaling | Loses quality, becomes pixelated | Scales infinitely without quality loss |
| File Size | Can be large (especially high-res) | Generally smaller for simple art, scales with complexity |
| Editing | Pixel-by-pixel (e.g., in Photoshop) | Edit paths, points, fills, strokes (in Illustrator) |
Image Trace is a powerful tool for bridging the gap between raster and vector formats, enabling designers to leverage pixel-based artwork within the scalable and editable world of vector graphics.
