Final answer:
Image Trace in Adobe Illustrator allows users to convert raster images into vector graphics, enabling scalability without quality loss. It's useful for transforming sketches or logos into editable illustrations suitable for various applications and sizes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Image Trace in Adobe Illustrator is a powerful feature that enables users to convert raster images (such as photographs or scans) into vector graphics. This functionality is particularly important in the realm of digital graphics because vector images can be scaled up or down without any loss of quality, unlike their raster counterparts which can become pixelated when enlarged. With Image Trace, a student can transform a hand-drawn sketch into a clean, editable illustration or convert a logo into a vector format for further editing and usage in various sizes.
The process of using Image Trace involves placing a raster image into Illustrator, selecting it, and then choosing one of the preset trace options that best fits the type of image it is. Illustrator will then generate a vector tracing of the image, which can be further refined using the various options and settings available within the Image Trace panel. It's an indispensable tool for designers who need to work with both traditional and digital mediums to create scalable, high-quality artwork for different applications and devices.