Introduction to Adobe Illustrator CC

Introduction to Adobe Illustrator CC

• Adobe Illustrator CC is a professional vector-based imaging program used in various industries, including web, apps, video animation, and print media.
• It is the industry standard for capturing creative designs with images, shapes, effects, and typography.

Adobe Illustrator CC Interface

• The interface has been revamped in comparison to the Creative Suite version.
• The "Start Workspace" can be toggled between two different views: the List View and the Thumbnail View.
• These views show recently opened files on local storage media or those saved to the Creative Cloud.

Navigating the Start Workspace

• The "Start Workspace" introduces a new interface for creating or accessing projects.
• The New and Open action buttons are located on the left side of the "Start Workspace".
• The New button (Ctrl+N) allows launching the New Document dialog box.
• The Open button (Ctrl+O) launches a dialog box to browse local files.

Opening and Saving Project Files

• Adobe Illustrator CC allows different methods for accessing and saving files.
• Files can be opened by dragging and dropping images or project files into the Document Window.
• Files can also be opened by using the path File > Open or File > Open Recent.
• The shortcut Ctrl + O can be used to launch a dialog box to browse local storage for desired files.

Saving Files

• Files can be saved as AI, EPS, SVG, PDF, DWG, JPEG, or PNG.
• The saving method depends on the situation and the desired file format.
• Files can be saved by going to the path File > Save As (Shift + Ctrl + S) or Save (Ctrl +S).
• Files can also be exported in multiple formats using the path File > Export > Export As.

File Extensions

• AI: The native file extension of Adobe Illustrator, which keeps documents in a modifiable state with layers and effects available.
• EPS: A graphic file format that can contain 2D vector graphics, suitable for transferring data between different operating systems.
• SVG: A file format used on the World Wide Web, suitable for web content, with options to include placed images embedded or linked, as well as including fonts.
• PDF: A format that supports both vector and raster information, suitable for documents with annotations, notes, and hyperlinks.
• DWG: A standard vector file format native to AutoCAD, suitable for architectural and engineering design.
• JPEG: A format commonly used for displaying photographs and continuous-tone images, supporting CMYK, RGB, and Grayscale color modes.
• PNG: A format used for lossless compression, suitable for displaying images on the web, supporting RGB, Indexed Color, Grayscale, and Bitmap modes.

Choosing a File Extension

• By default, Adobe Illustrator saves files as AI, preserving layers and effects.
• The choice of file extension depends on the situation and the desired use of the file.
• SVG is suitable for web content, while DWG is suitable for exporting to AutoCAD.
• EPS is a legacy file format that permits a visual representation of PostScript code, suitable for use with any vector application.
• PNG is suitable for logos, and JPEG is suitable for reducing file size for web pages.

Learn about Adobe Illustrator CC, a professional vector-based imaging program used in various media, including web, apps, video animation, and print. Explore its features and workspace.