Today I am going to briefly show you how to make a vector image like the one below. In case you are not aware vector images are made up of many separate, scalable bits and pieces. The objects are defined by paths and lines instead of pixels, so they always display at the highest quality whatever the size.

I have only ever made a few vector images but the best method I have found for creating a good looking and simple one is as follows.

When creating an image using vector art using your chosen software (I use adobe illustrator) the first thing you need is your reference photograph or sketch. Import this onto its own layer in the background and lock it so you don’t accidentally select it or move it around. Create a fresh layer and start to outline the main background colour of your image. For the lady below I started with the base skin tone. Once that is complete and you are happy with it start on the highlights and shadows of the main area in new layers. One for the shadows and one for the highlights.

Move onto the next biggest and simplest areas. Repeat the previous steps until you have them outlined, shadowed and highlighted. Sometimes background areas can have parts in the foreground (the ladies hand). Since a layer can’t be at the back and front you need to create a new layer for the area and two layers for its shadows and highlights.

Hair takes a long time and is made up of multiple layers of different shades like shadow and highlights for other areas. More layers are needed if the hair is both in front and behind an object. I drew the main hair outline behind the head and shoulders and then added layers in front of the head for highlights. Hair takes a long time to get right.

After you image is complete it is a good idea to export it and use Photoshop to add faded highlights around lit areas using a soft wide brush. The magic lasso tool is helpful here. Remember to use new layers for your highlights.

BIG TIP number 1 – Name your layers as you go so you can easily find what you want to select.

BIG TIP number 2 – Start with the biggest and simplest areas and save the small details for last. They are the bits that take the longest and have to be done just right. In this case it was the eyes and hair.

BIG TIP number 3 – To get a better idea of the highlight and shadow areas it is often best to use Photoshop and posterize your reference image before locking it in the back ground. Posterize can be found in “image > adjustments > posterize”

Hope this helps. If you want to see more vector images then you can find some in my portfolio