How to Convert JPG to Vector
A JPG image is usually a photo that contains various shades, tones and colors. A vector image is an image that utilizes commands and mathematical statements instead of points to store an image. As a result, the image is much smaller for storage and transfer purposes. A vector can also be resized and manipulated without experiencing any loss to quality. You can turn a JPG graphic or photo into a vector image using free and open source software.
Download the Program
Open your web browser and navigate to http://inkscape.org/. Click “Download” from the left menu. Select the version of the software that you need. Inkscape supports both Windows and Mac OSX. Double-click the installer to install it on your system and open the program.
Opening Your Image
Select “File” from the menu bar in Inkscape and then select “Import.” Browse to where your JPEG image is stored on your system. Click the image file and select “OK” to open it.
Creating the Vector
Select “Path” from the menu bar along the top, and then click on “Trace Bitmap.” Choose “Colors” from the options located in the lower left corner and increase the number allocated to “Scans” three times. Click “Update,” which is located below the preview of your image. This makes the image render faster and also increases its resolution. Feel free to adjust the scans and other settings and select “Update” after each change until your image is suited to your tastes.
Saving the Vector
Click “Save as” once you have tweaked the settings to perfection. Select one of the vector image formats that are available. A good choice that is supported by most other applications is the EPS file format.
Keep in mind that you will need to tweak settings individually for best results. The image will also contain multiple vector and anchoring points for best quality. Unfortunately, this will also increase the file size but is necessary if you want to have complete control over the quality of the vector. Programs that auto create vectors without any human input are usually not very accurate and don’t create the most precise vectors.
