Since the jpg file format is a bitmap file, scaling it will produce jagged edges. By converting jpg to vector, you will be able to resize the file without losing detail. The vector format is the one used in illustration programs and for making clip art.
Convert Bitmap to Vector with Photoshop
Step 1
Determine which portion of the jpg file you want to change into vector. Understand that not all the details can be changed at once. Trying to trace a multi megabyte jpg image at once is very difficult and slows your computer to a crawl. In this tutorial, we will change the hat in the image to a vector.
Step 2
Increase the amount of contrast in the jpg file. Go to Image, Adjustments, and choose Brightness/Contrast. Ensure the preview option has a check. Use the cursor to drag the slider to the right. Keep making adjustments until the hat is tonally distinct from the rest of the image.
Step 3
Click the Magic Wand tool in the toolbar. Set the tolerance to 10. Click the hat. If other portions of the image are selected, reduce the tolerance level. If it doesn’t select the entire hat, increase the tolerance level. You may use the Lasso tool instead of the Magic Wand.
Step 4
Go to Window, Paths. Select “Make work path from selection.” Click File and choose Export. Choose “Paths to Illustrator.” Type a name for the file and pick a folder to save it in. The file has been converted to an Adobe Illustrator file. You can open Illustrator and edit the file as you would any vector.
Step 5
Repeat the process to change the other parts of the jpg file to vector.
Converting Jpg to Vector with Inkscape
Step 1
Download Inkscape. It is a freeware program. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.
Step 2
Choose “Open Program.” and click File, Import. Select the jpg file you want to change.
Step 3
Click Path on the menu bar. Click “Trace Bitmap.”
Step 4
Select “Colors” and increase the “Scans”. Click “update”
Step 5
Save the file in one of the vector image formats available.
No matter which program you use for converting jpg to vector, do not expect the result to look like the original. Instead it will look like a drawing of the jpg image. The procedure will also vary with other vector tracing programs. Read the program help files to be sure.
