Place (import) graphics The Place command is the primary method used to insert graphics into InDesign because it provides the highest level of support for resolution, file formats, multipage PDF and INDD files, and color. To place graphics is also referred to as import images and insert pictures. Jul 19, 2019 InDesign CC – Advanced Training here When Illustrator Is Better than InDesign If you are. Get started with infographic templates for Illustrator & InDesign. Give numbers extra clarity and impact with professional infographic designs for Adobe Illustrator and InDesign. Infographic Elements Set. Go traditional yet colorful with these stylish infographic templates.
The first step toward efficient, creative projects is a strong understanding of contrasting design software dynamics. We’ll help you take that first step by comparing two powerful software tools. Adobe InDesign and Illustrator each have unique, beneficial design functions. Here’s a quick rundown of each system, followed by an in-depth breakdown of their similarities and differences.
InDesign
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Adobe InDesign is a program that is used to create both print and digital projects. This typically includes things such as books, newsletters, brochures and newspapers. InDesign is often used by graphic designers, as it has extensive editing potential. It’s also used by marketers from time to time.
Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator is a software tool used to create different graphics, such as illustrations, artwork, drawings and more. Both the Windows and Mac operating systems are capable of running Illustrator. It is a vector graphics tool, meaning it constructs images using different lines that form shapes.
Now that you have some details about each app individually, here are four areas of comparison for the two systems, along with a breakdown for each:
1. Single and multi-page projects
Both InDesign and Illustrator handle single and multi-page tasks, so it’s important to weigh the benefits before deciding which to use. When it comes to single-page documents, especially print projects, Illustrator has the edge. Business cards and posters are ideal for Illustrator because it manipulates image and text size. It also handles visual features precisely.
Illustrator is capable of creating multi-page projects but InDesign is the superior multi-page option. InDesign has a Master Page function, which allows users to edit numerous pages without editing them individually. Furthermore, InDesign is ideal for multi-page, as it automatically numbers pages.
2. Comprehensive drawing features
Though it may seem obvious that Illustrator is the more in-depth drawing software, it’s critical to learn nuanced differences between the two programs’ drawing capabilities. Furthermore, it’s vital to know where Illustrator is lacking. When looking to draw creative, enhanced designs, Illustrator is the right choice. The artboard has multiple options and provides plenty of space to draw and create crisp designs. The only time Illustrator struggles with images is editing, so retain an alternative program to edit photos.
InDesign does have a few drawing options, including a pencil tool and the ability to draw some lines and shapes. Also, drawings done on Illustrator can be imported into InDesign. This is helpful when a team member completes a multi-page project, as Illustrator is better for single-page projects.
3. Logo creation and manipulation for organizations
InDesign creates shapes for logos but lags behind Illustrator in quite a few ways in this area. Illustrator is perfect for logo creation because images in Illustrator are made to fit any size while maintaining original quality. Logos change placements and sizes, so software that reacts correctly to the changes is necessary.
Another valuable function that makes Illustrator great for logo manipulation is the typesetting features. It shapes text to the preference of an organization. InDesign is great for text-related projects as well but it doesn’t measure up to Illustrator. Remember that each organization’s logo needs are drastically different. This information should guide you toward your program choice.
4. Beneficial integrations
A crucial aspect of choosing design software is determining how well it syncs with other programs. When it comes to integrations, Adobe InDesign flawlessly corresponds with important systems. One compelling InDesign integration is with Canto DAM, a digital asset management system designed to manage files.
Digital asset management is a comprehensive file storage solution. DAM provides a central location to store assets safely. InDesign connects to Canto and gives users a connection to open images from their media library in InDesign. This integration is vital for businesses who use InDesign and cloud storage systems.
The dynamics of a venture evolve and the choice between these software will change as well. Understand their subtle differences to create strong projects.
To get more insight into these two dynamic systems, watch our brief Illustrator vs InDesign video here:
Converting from an AI to an INDD is not the most common task. Chances are you’ll hardly ever encounter a need to make this change. However, just in case it happens, here’s a guide to make sure you know how. We’ll start by explaining both of these file types so that you have a base understanding of each.
What is the AI image file?
The AI image file is the standard graphic format used for files saved from the popular image design tool Adobe Illustrator. It uses vector graphics, which create the outcome of a picture by connecting numerous digital points that instruct what kind of graphic to display in that area. The AI is used extensively by large enterprises due to its resizable qualities and ability to function as a brand logo graphic.
What is an INDD image file?
The InDesign file extension (INDD) is the official file extension for projects created using the software system Adobe InDesign. An INDD file contains many different elements, like layouts and page data. Because of its print features, the INDD is often used to create newspapers, detailed print layouts, newsletters and flyers.
Now that you see these two popular file extensions’s true purpose, let’s dive into how to convert from one to the other.
How to convert the AI to INDD?
Convert Canva To Indesign
Although converting from the AI to the INDD doesn’t really work per se, there is in fact a roundabout way to make it happen. You will need access to both the Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign software programs. First, make sure whoever you’re converting to INDD for understands what will happen when making this change. This is much different from converting more accessible file types.
If you or the eventual recipient is sure about the necessity to have the file in the INDD format, begin the procedure by launching Adobe Illustrator. Next, open the AI file you wish to convert. Copy the image (using the ‘copy’ feature). Then, launch Adobe InDesign. Paste your image (using the ‘paste’ feature) into InDesign and save the project. You now have that AI image as an INDD.
What are the benefits?
Patterns In Indesign
Since this is such a rare conversion, the benefits will be very case-by-case. The first potential benefit is that now the image file will likely be more agreeable with most printers. InDesign is a very print-based project creator, so this would make sense. Though this is one possible benefit, it’s still going to be rare for a user to request you move an AI file into an INDD.
Another reason to convert is because you’re more comfortable working with an image when it’s in a more familiar tool. If you have extensive experience with InDesign, it would be logical to want a lot of your images in that system for editing and layouts. Even though converting from AI to INDD might not benefit you directly, it’s possible that another team member requests the INDD format and you’re able to give it to them by using this conversion method. It can’t hurt to be prepared.
Ultimately, this conversion won’t need to take place all that often. It is important, however, to be prepared just in case it does. Practice saving the AI into an INDD project to make sure you know how to do it.