Select File > Place, select the raster image, and then place it on the canvas.
Last updated on
Feb 26, 2026
Learn how to use Image Trace to convert raster images into editable vector graphics.
Trace an image with full tracing options
Select Window > Image Trace to open the Image Trace panel.
In the Preset dropdown of the panel, select Enhanced Presets or Legacy Presets.
Enhanced presets provide built-in support for Gradients, Shapes, Transparency, and Auto Grouping, depending on the specific preset. If you use legacy presets, you must manually select these options.
Select a preset from the icon list at the top of the panel or from the Preset dropdown. The trace result replaces the original image. The tracing speed depends on the image resolution.
Adjust the tracing options in the panel to customize the result, as required.
Trace an image quickly with limited tracing options
You can run Image Trace with varying levels of speed and control without the customization options provided by the Image Trace panel:
Select the image you want to trace using the Selection tool.
Do any of the following to trace an image:
- Select Image Trace in the Contextual Task Bar to run Image Trace instantly using the Default preset.
- Select Image Trace in the Properties panel to run Image Trace using any tracing preset.
Note
If you run Image Trace using any of these methods, you can still customize the result later using the Image Trace panel.
Release the trace
To discard a trace and restore the source image:
Select the trace result.
Select Object > Image Trace > Release.
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