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How Do You Vectorize in Photoshop?

Last updated on September 24, 2022 @ 1:09 pm

Vectorization is the process of converting a bitmap image into a vector image. Vectorization is often used when converting images from one format to another, or when an image needs to be edited in a vector-based program like Adobe Illustrator.

There are two main ways to vectorize an image: manual tracing and automatic tracing.

Manual tracing is the process of manually drawing over the bitmap image with vector drawing tools. This method can be time-consuming, but it gives you more control over the final results.

Automatic tracing is the process of using software to automatically convert the bitmap image into a vector image. This method is faster, but it can sometimes result in poorer quality vector images.

When you vectorize an image, you are essentially creating a new version of the image that is made up of mathematical curves and lines rather than pixels. Vector images are resolution-independent, which means they can be scaled up or down without losing any quality.

This makes them ideal for use in print media, where images need to be resized frequently. Vector images are also easier to edit than bitmap images, as they can be modified without affecting the quality of the image.

PRO TIP: Photoshop’s vector capabilities are often misunderstood. Vector graphics are not the same as bitmap graphics. Vector graphics are made up of mathematical objects called “vectors” that have a start point and an end point, and can be any length or width. Bitmap graphics are made up of pixels, which are tiny squares of color information. When you scale a bitmap graphic, the pixels get bigger or smaller, and the image gets blurrier or more jagged. When you scale a vector graphic, the mathematical objects retain their size and shape.

If you need to convert a bitmap image into a vector image, there are two main methods you can use: manual tracing and automatic tracing.

Manual Tracing

Manual tracing is the process of manually drawing over the bitmap image with vector drawing tools.

Automatic Tracing

Automatic tracing is the process of using software to automatically convert the bitmap image into a vector image.

No matter which method you choose, vectorization can be a helpful way to convert your images into a format that is easier to edit and resize.

Dale Leydon

Dale Leydon

Sysadmin turned Javascript developer. Owner of 20+ apps graveyard, and a couple of successful ones.