Expert: Amy - 8/17/2007

Question
This is a fairly basic question, but I haven't really been able to find the answer.

I have two image files. One is a jpg file, the other is in a vector format (EPS, I think). The jpg file is a logo; the vector file has several smaller images in it. I would like to be able to take parts of these images (a single image from the vector, an element of the logo), delete the rest and eliminate the background, and then save these single images in a format that I can import into InDesign.

Can you tell me how to do that? Is Illustrator the right program, or should I be using Photoshop? (I have the complete CS2 suite.)

Thanks

Answer
Hi MaryAnne,

To use parts of a vector image, simply select what you need with the white arrow tool or the white lasso tool, copy and paste.

To do that with a jpeg is a little more difficult. You should use PhotoShop for it. Open the jpeg. This will involve the path window, so make sure that is displayed. (Window>Paths)

Use the eraser tool or the crop tool to delete what you don't want. Once the object is the only thing remaining in the image, use the magic wand tool to select only the background. Make sure all of the background is selected - try setting the tolerance at 20 or higher to select those nearly-white pixels that you can't see. Then Select Inverse. Now the image will be selected.

In the paths window, with the object selected, choose Make Work Path from the little menu in the Path window top right corner. Set tolerance to about 1.

Now, in the paths window, double click on the words Work Path and give it a name.

Now use the Paths Window upper-right menu again and choose Clipping Path. Choose the new path as the clipping path and leave the flatness blank.

Convert the document color mode to CMYK or grayscale and save it as an EPS document. You can then place it in InDesign or in Illustrator and the background will be transparent!

Hope this helps!
Amy