How to convert a JPG or PNG file to an EPS?

There are several ways you can convert a JPG or PNG file to an EPS. In this blog we explain how you can do this. We also indicate what the benefits and disadvantages are.

Two ways to convert a JPG to EPS

In short, you have two options:

  1. Do it yourself.
  2. Have it done.

Method one: converting a JPG to an EPS by yourself

Again, there are two ways to do this:

  • With a program.
  • With an online converter.

Converting with a program

Adobe Illustrator is a commonly used program to convert files to EPS.

With this software you can convert not only JPG and PNG files to EPS, but also other file formats such as a PDF, DWG, DXF, CDR, GIF, JPEG, DOCX (Word) and PSD file.

List of file formats you can open with Adobe Illustrator.

We also use this program to convert logos, illustrations and family crests to EPS.

How to convert yourself?

In a nutshell, it works like this:

  1. Open the JPG, PNG or other file format (see list above) in Illustrator.
  2. Trace the image by hand. This involves tracing each shape in the image and filling it with a color.
  3. Save the file as an EPS file.

Note that the second step is very important. If you don’t do this, then you are only changing the file type. The most important thing; the structure of the image, will not change. It will still be in pixels, instead of vectors (essential for a good EPS file).

Benefits of using a program

  • The result is excellent.
  • You can edit the EPS yourself.

Disadvantages of using a program

  • It takes (a lot) of time to make convert a JPG to an EPS.
  • You must first learn to work with Illustrator before you can convert a file to EPS.
  • Adobe Illustrator costs money.

Converting with an Online Converter

On the internet you can find several websites that can convert a JPG to an EPS file. This is a matter of uploading, waiting a moment and then downloading the EPS file. This sounds nice. Unfortunately, there are also some disadvantages.

Original JPG file.
JPG to EPS converted with Vectormagic (Online Converter)

Disadvantages Online Converter

  • The result is often disappointing. As you can see in the logo above, the lines are not neat. The little man and the text is angular. There is even a letter missing.
  • It’s not free, often you have to buy a paid monthly subscription.
  • You have to create an account.

Benefits Online Converter

  • Fast.

For comparison, the example below was created by our specialists. As you can see, the lines are clean. The male and the text is sharp and complete. This is the difference between an Online Converter (Vector Magic) and the professionals at ViaVector.

Original JPG file.
JPG converted to EPS by ViaVector

Second method: converting a JPG or PNG file to an EPS

Don’t feel like fiddling around in Illustrator or with Online Converters? Then you can also let us do the converting for you. We can help you with this quickly and professionally.

Benefits of ViaVector

  • Your vector will be converted by professionals. So always a good result.
  • Ready within 24 hours.
  • Small adjustment needed? Like changing a color or removing text? Please let us know, we are happy to do this for you.
  • Different versions. For example a colored and black & white version.
  • Easy ordering & payment through the site.

Disadvantages of ViaVector

  • Our price is higher than online converters (our rates).

Any questions?

Hi, I’m Annelies from customer service. Do you have any questions or comments? Then feel free to contact me through the contact form. You will receive a response within 24 hours.

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