Struggling with sizing issues? Find out how you can convert a PNG to a vector and easily make the changes you need.
A portable network graphic (PNG) is a file format designed to compress image files without compromising the integrity of their data. This is a widely used and favored format, but they are resolution-dependent. This means your ability to resize them without losing quality is limited. Here’s a guide on how to convert a PNG to a vector in Photoshop.
Select Your Image
First, open the image you want to convert in Photoshop. Use the “Object Selection Tool” or “Quick Selection Tool” from the toolbar initially. These tools will recognize the objects in a basic image and draw a path around them for you. If the image is more complex, you may need to use the “Pen” tool or the “Magnetic Lasso” tool. With these tools, you manually trace the edges of an object until it is fully enclosed. The “Magnetic Lasso” is particularly useful as it sticks to the edges of the object, providing precise tracing.
Use Paths
After tracing, navigate to the “Paths” panel (Window > Paths if it’s not visible) and select “Make Work Path from Selection”. With this, the tracings around each object in the photo will convert into a path. If you need to any imperfections in the paths (which are likely to occur), reopen the file in Photoshop and use the appropriate tools to smooth out the rough edges. The “Direct Selection Tool” and “Path Selection Tool” are handy for selecting the path you wish to correct before making edits.
Export
To export the paths, go to the “File” menu and select “Export”. When the “Paths to Illustrator” option appears, select it. You’ll then be taken to a new window. In this new window, save your vector image with a different name than your original PNG file to avoid confusion when you use the images later. The file will be saved in Adobe Illustrator (.AI) format, which is a vector file.
Cover image via monticello
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