PDF file change to AI vector format file ?

[Kinglouie69]

When we got the client file. They just have PDF format only. In Illustrator CC change easy to change PDF to Vector. Now. can't to work. just the box only. also, can't edit anything.

Anyone can help to fix ? or it is some reason to lock up ?

Thank you

[Test Screen Name]

"When we got the client file. They just have PDF format only. In Illustrator CC"

This is often said, though many people don't want to believe it: Illustrator is NOT a general PDF editor. Sometimes it works and that's great, but it can't be relied upon in general.

" change easy to change PDF to Vector. "

How? Do you mean you traced an image? 

"Now. can't to work. just the box only. also, can't edit anything."

Please explain in detail what happens.

Also the version of Illustrator (not "latest" or "up to date")?

[Kinglouie69]

I reply for more information on my top post. thx man

[Simmer1]

Hi,

So your saying you clicked edit PDF in Acrobat?https://www.printingforless.com/How-to-Edit-PDFs-in-Adobe-Illustrator.html

Thanks Sim

[Bobby Henderson]

The PDF format does not convert pixel-based image files into vector-based graphics. A PDF is a container for a variety of text and graphics objects. Many people do not understand the differences between vector-based artwork and pixel-based artwork. And they mistakenly assume a file container format such as PDF or EPS will automatically convert a pixel-based image into a clean piece of vector-based artwork.

In my work place we often request vector-based graphics from customers in a variety of formats (AI, EPS, PDF, CDR, AFdesign or SVG). Very often the client will find a copy of his logo saved in a pixel based format such as JPEG or PNG. He might have a vector-based file of it somewhere, but the pixel based image was the first thing he found so he uses that. He launches MS Word or any other document editor and places the JPEG version of that logo into a new document and exports it out as a PDF, expecting it to be all good. Wrong. It doesn't work that way. We see this mistake all the time. Placing a JPEG inside of a PDF does nothing to change the nature of the original JPEG object. It's still a JPEG image wrapped in an additional layer of PDF clothing.

[Kinglouie69]

It is very basic information for graphic designer. let me add more info in my case. Anyway, Thank you for reply about it. ^^

[John Mensinger]

In addition to what's already been said, even if the client's PDF contained only vector graphics and text, it's very likely that opening it in Illustrator would present you with the entire layout within a clipping mask, perhaps with many clipping masks inside. That could be why you get this:

just the box only. also, can't edit anything.

By @Kinglouie69

To edit, you would have to release the clipping mask(s), but it may leave you with a confusing mess.

[Kinglouie69]

Yes, I try to release the clipping mask. same case.

[Kinglouie69]

Sorry guys, I'm add more information for my problem case. the left hand side is vector with image and text PDF. Right hand side is covert the file in AI preview. can't ungroup and mask.....etc. 

[John Mensinger]

I suspect everything visible in the PDF is contained in a single raster image; no vectors. Is the frame shown on the right an object you can select by clicking on it? If so, select it and take another screenshot with the Layers panel in view.

[Kinglouie69]

I try to search youtube. use the flatten transparency. it is not work too... same same box only.

[John Mensinger]

The attachment doesn't work. Use the Insert Photos button instead.

[Bobby Henderson]

Based on the differece of how the artwork looks in Preview mode versus Outline mode it looks like the artwork is all pixel-based. No vectors. Normally when you look at artwork in Outline (by either pressing Ctrl+Y or View>Outline) any vector-based artwork will be visible, even vectors embedded within clipping masks or clipping groups.

Illustrator is technically not a PDF editing application. But some PDF files can be more use-able than others, starting off whether they contain vector-based graphics or not. Some plugins, such as Vector First Aid by Astute Graphics, can automatically fix a lot of problems with imported PDF artwork (and save a lot of time). But sometimes you still have to do a good amount of "repair" work on PDFs, particularly those not generated by Adobe Illustrator.