One very common task for graphic designers is to convert a preexisting bitmap image into a vector image. There are many ways this can be done. In Adobe^R Illustrator^R, the new Live Trace Tool makes this a simple task. Let's see how.

1. Our first step in this example is to start a new Illustrator project with the same width and height as the bitmap image.
   
   
2. Next, use the Place command to add your bitmap image into the project. Click File, Place from the Menu Bar.
   
   
3. Selection Tool. Your image should be selected by default when you use the Place command. If it is not selected, select it with the Selection Tool.
   
   
4. In the center of the Control Palette, you will see the Tracing Presets and Option button which looks like a small arrow. Click on this button and choose Tracing Options from the bottom of the drop-down menu.
   
   
5. In the Tracing Options dialog box, place a checkmark in the Preview box which will turn on the auto preview. You will notice your image change to black and write.
   
   

We could stop here and save our image with the default settings. But, usually you will have a certain project in mind when you do this process and, at this stage, your client will not be certain just what he wants. He might ask you for a few variations to choose from. The default settings for the Tracing Options will give you a good first sample. Click the Trace button to accept the setting.

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