How to convert images to vector in Photoshop

Converting images to vector in Photoshop is an essential skill for graphic artists. Photos are often converted to vector for easy editing, high compatibility, economical storage, etc. Join Sadesign to learn about how to convert photos to vector in Photoshop in the following shares. 

1. Benefits of converting images to vector in Photoshop

Vector images are created from basic objects, shapes, and boundary points. They use algorithms to mix colors based on previously created boundary lines. Converting images to vector in Photoshop is necessary because vector images have the following benefits:

• High compatibility: vector images can be opened and edited in many different software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDraw, Inkscape,... 
• Ability to flexibly resize images: vector images can be Zoom in and out without losing quality. Therefore, vector is very convenient for printing or displaying on different devices. 
• Easy editing ability: Vector can be separated into many parts, can be moved, rotated or deformed, change color easily. 
• Economical storage capacity: Vector capacity is smaller than bitmap, thus saving storage space and transmission bandwidth.

2. How to convert photos to vector in Photoshop 

To convert photos to vector in Photoshop, you can follow these steps: 

Step 1: Open the photo you want to convert to vector in Photoshop by clicking File => Open or select the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+O. 

Note, you should choose images with high resolution, clarity, and few complex details to convert to vector.

Step 2: Create a selection for the object using the Quick Selection Tool. You just need to place the tool on the object and then drag the mouse over the entire object.

Step 3: Sharpen the image to convert the image to detailed vector. Create a Layer Mask for the selected object => Menu => Filter => Sharpen => Smart Sharpen.

Step 4: Adjust the given parameters and select OK after finishing.

Step 5: Select Layer 0 that you have created => Right click on Adjustment Layer => Select Threshold.

Step 6: Now adjust the appropriate contrast for the image.

Step 7: Press the keyboard shortcut Ctrl (Command) + J to duplicate the Layer.

Step 8: Select the newly duplicated layer (Layer 1 copy) => Select Filter => Select Other => Select High Pass.

Step 9: Adjust the Radius section to the appropriate parameter and select OK after completion.

Step 10: Select all the layers in Photoshop and then press the key combination Ctrl (Command) + E to merge the layers.

Step 11: Select the merged layer => Right click on the subject => Select Color Range.

Step 12: Select the color absorption icon => Remove dark parts in the image => Customize the Fuzziness section to the appropriate level => Select OK.

Step 13: Select Layer Mask to create a layer mask for the merged layer.

Step 14: Select the mask at Layer 1 (Merged Layer) => Select the Path tool => Right click on the object => Select Mask Work Path.

Step 15: Select File => Select Export => Select Path to Illustrator.

Step 16: Now that you have finished converting the image to vector in Photoshop, you just need to save the image. 

3. Some notes when converting images to vector in Photoshop 

During the process of converting images to vector in Photoshop, for best results, you should note the following points:

• Choose appropriate images: you should choose images with high resolution, clarity, and few complex details for the most accurate conversion to vector. 
• Create accurate paths: when converting images into vectors in Photoshop, you need to pay attention to creating accurate paths, close to the edges of objects in the image. 
• Check styles and details: check the styles and details of objects after converting to vector. You can use the Stroke tool to change path strokes such as color, thickness, stroke type, etc. 
• Backup original data: You should back up the original data before converting the image to vector in Photoshop. Please save the original image as JPG, PNG, PSD to restore when necessary. 

Above is general information on how to convert images to vector in Photoshop. Hopefully Sadesign's sharing can help you convert images to vector easily.