Convert Picture Lines to Paths

[bm2000]

I'm trying to convert a pdf of a Contour Topography Map (the maps with the radiating circles indicating the gradient of land) into a path in Illustrator. Basically, I'm trying to make all of the contour lines into path lines that I can move and edit around.

I've been trying to do it with the Image Trace tool but haven't been able to come up with anything that just gives me the lines.

Is there a way to do this in Illustrator or even in Photoshop maybe?

Cheers

The Contour Topography map link is below

http://https://f1.creativecow.net/13644/contour-topography-map

[tromboniator · Accepted solution]

First, your link doesn't work as you posted it. I had to remove the http:// from the beginning of it.

Second, the resulting pdf download does open in Illustrator, but the image is encumbered with a clipping mask. Release the mask, then hide or delete it.

The paths can then be selected and manipulated.

Peter

[bramd78061779]

g

[bm2000]

Thanks for your reply, tromboniator.

This whole time iI had been placing the pdf into my project. The 'release clipping mask' option was greyed out because of that.

Turns out all I had to do was 'open' the pdf as opposed to 'placing' it, and that gave me an editable pdf!

[tromboniator]

You're welcome. I'm glad there was enough of a hint that you got where you wanted to go.

Peter

[Peter Villevoye]

Just Open. From expected tedious task to solution in 15 seconds.

Don't tell your client...