This tutorial will show you how to create a professionally illustrated vector image from a photo reference. I’ll show you an easy workflow to follow, that includes selecting an appropriate image and setting up documents. With a basic understanding of the Pen Tool, the Eyedropper Tool, and the Pathfinder Palette you can create a stylized vector image that’s sure to wow your clients or friends.
Step 1 – Image Selection
You can make vector images from people in a lot of different ways, but I like to use an image as a base. This way you keep it realistic. So there we go, you can either look for an image online or make one yourself. For this tutorial you can use the same picture as I did. If you are using one of your own pictures, always keep these two points in mind:
- Image size: the bigger, the better! It’s difficult to work with an image with dimensions set at 200 pixels wide.
- Contrast: you need to have enough contrast to work with, when the image is to flat you can’t pick out the details.
The image used in this tutorial is big enough and has plenty of contrast. There’s a lot of mess on the ground, but we can leave out those details. When I started with this image I added more contrast with photoshop, this is something you can do when you aren’t sure about the amount of contrast. The image below is from a friend of mine.
Give him a visit to his portfolio: Roy Hoes.
Step 2 – File Set-Up
While working with illustrator, I always like to have a clear view of my layers. Therefore, I always use the same set-up in my layers pallet. I place the picture I’ll be using and any other reference I might need in the bottom layer. This layer should be locked at all times. You don’t want to get in trouble with this later on.
I stack all my other layers on top. I like to name my layers, as you can see in the image below. It’s easier when you want to change a little part later on. Give your layers short and clear names for a quick workflow.
