Flash: Trace Bitmap Function

We have colored in line art in Photoshop and manually traced an image to create line art in Flash.  Today we will be learning the MODIFY > BITMAP > TRACE BITMAP function in Flash.  Basically what it does is convert a bitmap/raster graphic (i.e. a photograph) into a vector graphic automatically -- or at least with very little effort.

Typically I begin by either importing the graphic to my stage or pasting the graphic onto my stage.  Then I go to Modify > Document and change the Document Properties to match the Contents.  All that does is makes my "stage" the same size as the picture on the stage.

I also give it a Title (and sometimes a description) at this point as well.  You will also notice the Frame rate -- which is something we will be using later when we get to animation.

Next I go to the Modify > Bitmap > Trace Bitmap menu so I can trace my image.  Here I can adjust the color threshold (smaller numbers are more detailed) and the minimum area (again, smaller numbers give higher detail).  You can also adjust your Curve fit or the Corner threshold to smooth the graphics out.

I used various settings on this example image to get more or less detail and to smooth out what I have.

In the Eagle example I traced the outline by hand with a black paintbrush, but did a "Modify > Bitmap > Trace Bitmap" to pull out some feather details.  I also added in some of my own details (using the paintbrush) to make it appear more hand drawn.

Finally I traced a flag using the Trace Bitmap option and placed it behind the Eagle.

Because this project can be done in a number of seconds, what I want you to do is create several different images using different settings and then choose two good example to upload to your portfolio.

Flash: Trace an Image

The "Trace an Image" project really helps build skills with the drawing tools and gives us a good baseline for future projects.  Here are the steps I recommend for getting started:

1. Open Flash and create new document (either ActionScript 2.0 or 3.0)
2. Open an Internet browser and find a picture that you would like to copy.
   Although cartoons and line art drawings are easier, I recommend starting with a photo and seeing what effects you can get.
3. Copy the picture (Right-Click and select Copy)
4. Open Flash and Paste your image (Right-Click and select Paste)
5. Go to Modify > Document
6. Click on "Contents" and click "OK"
7. Press CTRL+2 to fill the screen with the largest size possible
8. Create a new layer (the little square "folded corner" icon under your layers
9. Begin tracing your image
10. When completely finished tracing your project, delete your original photo layer.
    Note: You can temporarily "hide" your original photo by clicking to dot under the eyeball on the layer holding the original photo.
11. Save your completed file to your Thawspace
12. Press CTRL+ENTER to test your finished project (this also creates an SWF file)

I would like you to spend today and Friday creating these traced images.  If you complete one quickly, do another one.  You can use these in another project in a few days.

Examples of Traced Images:

In this example, I traced the outline of Charlie Chaplin and cleaned up some edges.  I also took the liberty of adjusting the hair color and adding some details to the coat that weren't in the original picture.

 

In these two examples of Eagles, I replaced the dark brown background with a sky and a flag, respectively.  The point is that you can trace an image and still have fun with the design.