Expert: Laith Ibrahim - 5/12/2008

Question
Hi,

Is it possible to crop picture images in AI???  I can't figure it out!  I can make the
crop lines, but how do I get it to crop my image to the size I want it?

Answer
Hi Sarah,
You can't crop images in Adobe Illustrator the same way like in Photoshop. However, you can use a clipping mask to show only part of the image. Here's how you do it:
1. Create any shape you like using the pen tool, pencil tool or shape tool. Let's assume that you wanted a rectangular photo. Create a rectangle.

2. Put the rectangle on top of your photo. If it's behind the photo you can simply right click at the rectangle and choose "Arrange/Bring to Front".

3. Select both the Rectangle and the photo.

4. From the top menu, Click "Object/Clipping Mask/Make" or use the shortcut which is (CTRL+7 on PC)(CMD+7 on MAC).

5. You'll see that you're picture now looks as if it was cropped.

That's all you have to do.

If you need to have your picture cropped to a certain size, begin by creating your rectangle at the size you need. Simply select the rectangle tool from the tool menu, click once on the artboard (design area) and put the measurements in the window that will open. Then resize your photo to about the same size of the rectangle. Put the rectangle at top and select both. From the top menu, Click "Object/Clipping Mask/Make". Your photo will have the exact size that you wanted.

I hope the above information will help you get the results that you need. If there was anything that wasn't clear or if you need further information please don't hesitate to let me know.

Best regards,

Laith