Saving out a vector graphic via InDesign?

Report · Oct 10, 2016

I have an InDesign file for a brochure, and I'd like to save out particular graphic elements as individual vector graphics. I'm trying to figure out the best way to do this. Should I put them in individual InDesign projects and save them as InDesign file types, or should I copy them into Adobe Illustrator and save them as EPS format?

The intention is that I would extract the visuals from the file and hand them off to someone to re-insert wherever they need them, so I'd ideally like a vector format that is easiest for others to work into/edit.

Report · Oct 10, 2016

The intention is that I would extract the visuals from the file and hand them off to someone to re-insert wherever they need them

That is what CC Libraries are for:
What are Creative Cloud Libraries? | Adobe Creative Cloud tutorials

I'd ideally like a vector format that is easiest for others to work into/edit.

If they are already vector and you drag them into a CC library, they will be stored as vectors. If you have bitmaps, you will need to covert those to vector, if that's the format you want to use. You can do that in Illustrator.

should I copy them into Adobe Illustrator and save them as EPS format

Save them as a native .ai file. EPS files are outdated.
EPS – the Zombie among file formats

Report · Oct 10, 2016

Save as PDF (export or print). If your elements are vector objects they will be vector in PDF (except object that can be flatten, check this by flatten preview before export). PDF can be opened later in illustrator, coreldraw or some another "vector" program.

Remember, never say you can't do something in InDesign, it's always just a question of finding the right workaround to get the job done. © David Blatner

Report · Oct 10, 2016

Another vote for no eps from me!

You might save them into both:

1. Adobe Illustrator (ai) with Create PDF Compatible File and

2. Adobe PDF (pdf) from File > Save As

if you don't know who will be using them and where down the road.

Report · Oct 10, 2016

I would recommend, either a CC Library or select them, copy them paste them into a new INDD file (nothing else), export (not print) to PDF/X-4. This can be placed in any INDD file as linked file.

NEVER use EPS in 2016. EPS is an old outdated file type. Avoid also any flattened PDF as it is PDF/X-1a, PDF/X-3 or any PDF which is created via print.