How to convert JPG or PNG to SVG file?

There are several ways you can convert a JPG or PNG to an SVG file. In this blog we explain how you can do this. We also explain the pros and cons.

Two ways to convert a JPG to an SVG file

In short, you have two options:

Do it yourself.
Have it done.

Method one: convert a JPG to SVG 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 widely used program to convert files to SVG.

With this software you can convert not only JPG and PNG files to SVG, 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 for converting logos, illustrations and family crests to SVG.

How to convert yourself?

In a nutshell, it works like this:

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

Pros of using a program

The result is excellent.
You can edit the SVG by yourself.

Cons of using a program

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

Convert yourself with an Online Converter

You can find several websites on the Internet that can convert a JPG to an SVG file. This is a matter of uploading, waiting a moment and then downloading the SVG file. This sounds nice. Unfortunately, it also has its drawbacks.

JPG to SVG converted with Vectormagic (Online Converter)

Cons of an 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.

Pros of an 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.

Method two: having JPG or PNG converted to SVG file

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

Pros of ViaVector

Your vector is 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.

Cons of ViaVector

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

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