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Different ways to convert a TIFF image to an AI

by Casey Schmidt  |  November 5, 2019

3 min. read
A chain breaking into birds.

If you’re a skilled user of Adobe Illustrator, you’ll seek out opportunities to use numerous different image extensions inside the popular editing program. TIFF, for example, has a lot of dynamic qualities that don’t always prove themselves necessary. When this is the case, it’s important to know how to convert it to AI. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it.

What is a TIFF?

The TIFF image file is a tagged image file format. It’s one of the most secure image formats available. In fact, it’s so specific to security that it’s rarely used – only in certain situations that require safe graphics.

The TIFF contains an advanced level of metadata within each file, which gives users the chance to find out information about the image without even opening it. This furthers the security, as they can avoid viruses this way. Every TIFF file is extremely transparent and so is the data within it.

A picture of the TIFF file icon.
The TIFF is loaded with unique security features.

What is an AI file?

The AI image file is the main format extension for the popular Adobe program Illustrator. The AI uses a rare graphic type, the vector. Vector graphics are created by a forming of different points indicating different types of image elements. These images are resizable and maintain resolution while being morphed.

The AI is especially popular for companies creating brand graphics. This includes things such as logos or pictures inside newsletters. Finally, the AI allows users to generate text placements on images. This makes it stand out among standard image formats.

A couple graphic designers working with AI.
The AI file type provides immense editing capabilities.

How to convert

There’s a few different ways to convert a TIFF to an AI. The first way is manually through the Adobe Illustrator program. In order to do this, you’ll need Illustrator installed on your system. Inside Illustrator, open the TIFF file you wish to convert. You’ll do this using ‘place’ which is located under the ‘file’ menu. Your TIFF image is now a part of the Illustrator file. You can then save the Illustrator project onto your computer.

If the above option isn’t available, consider a third party converter. There are two types to choose from: browser-based and system-based. The browser-based converter is great for users who don’t want to take up a lot of hard drive space and only need a couple files converted. Convertio has a simple system and converts very quickly.

If you need to convert a large number of TIFF files at once, it’s logical to install a converter onto your system. This holds especially true for users with limited internet access. Unlike a browser-based system, these programs allow you to convert files in bulk. I recommend ReaConverter, a fast and efficient program.

An image converting to a solid image.
Convert your TIFF to an AI when you need a different type of file to edit.

Why convert?

The TIFF Is one of the most secure image file types with a lot of safety features that aren’t always necessary for certain users. When the extensive metadata and security of the TIFF are a waste for you, it’s time to think about using a different file format. If you want to be able to drastically edit your image, an AI is the perfect choice.

An AI is easy to resize and change for all types of different projects. If you’re creating a company logo or newsletter, the AI provides everything you need. Consider this conversion especially if you have an idea for a company project that requires an image to be changed in size often.

The TIFF has so many dynamic features, it’s sometimes too complicated or unnecessarily complex for users. When this is the case for you, make sure to understand some alternative options. A conversion to AI might things a lot easier on you.