How to Make Retro Vector Images in Photoshop

Adding a vector effect to photographs in Adobe Photoshop gives your images a retro-cartoon look. The effect takes a little bit of time and effort, but the final result is a uniquely-manipulated photograph.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Launch Photoshop and open the image to which you want to add the vector effect.

2. Save the image as a .psd file by clicking "File" then "Save As." Select "Photoshop (*.PSD, *PDD)" from the "Format" drop down menu, name the image and hit "Save."

3. Unlock the base layer of your image by double-clicking on the locked layer. Name the new layer in the dialog box that pops up and click "OK."

4. Duplicate the original layer.

5. Select the eye dropper tool and capture the darkest area of the image. Then choose the pen tool from the toolbar and select the "Shape Layers" option.

6. Add anchor points around the image. Then connect the anchor points to create your outline. Make the copy layer invisible to see what the outline looks like.

7. Turn on the visibility of the copy layer. Select the "Convert Anchor Points" tool. Move the anchor points as needed to wrap the outline tightly around the image.

8. Delete the anchor points you didn't use by selecting the "Delete Anchor Points" tool.

9. Highlight the "Shape 2" layer and duplicate it. Manipulate the anchor points so they wrap around the dominant color of your image. Change the color from black to the image's dominant color.

10. Toggle the copy layer so it's visible and hide the "Shape 2 Copy" layer. Choose the pen tool and select "Subtract from Area Shape" in the options bar. Select the "Shape 2" layer and trace the elements in the image, adding anchor points.

11. Tweak the anchor points with the "Convert Anchor Points" tool. Delete the unneeded anchor points and add color to the outline.

12. Repeat Steps 9 through 11 until your image is complete.