Batch convert images to SVG

Batch converting images to SVG typically means converting multiple raster images (like PNG, JPG, or BMP) into scalable vector graphics (SVG) format. Since SVG is vector-based, the conversion usually involves tracing the raster image to generate vector paths.

Here’s a detailed guide and options for batch converting images to SVG:

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1. Using Command-Line Tools

a) Inkscape (CLI Mode)

Inkscape is a popular vector graphics editor that supports command-line operations, including batch conversion with tracing.

• Install Inkscape (available for Windows, macOS, Linux).

• Use the --export-plain-svg to convert, but for raster to vector conversion, Inkscape uses the “Trace Bitmap” feature which is not directly accessible via CLI.

• Instead, you can automate the tracing using extensions or scripts with Inkscape’s Python API.

Simple batch export to SVG (if images are already SVG or vector-based):

bash
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for file in *.png; do
  inkscape "$file" --export-plain-svg="${file%.png}.svg"
done

For raster to vector tracing, consider using other tools or scripts.

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2. Using Potrace

• Potrace is a tool designed for converting bitmap images to vector graphics.

• It works best with black-and-white images (monochrome).

• You might first convert color images to black and white with ImageMagick, then trace with Potrace.

Batch script example:

bash
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for img in *.png; do
  convert "$img" -threshold 50% "${img%.png}.pbm"   # ImageMagick to create PBM
  potrace -s "${img%.png}.pbm" -o "${img%.png}.svg"  # Potrace to SVG
done

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3. Using Online Tools with Batch Support

Some online converters offer batch SVG conversion by uploading multiple images at once. They usually rely on vectorization algorithms similar to Potrace.

Examples:

• Vector Magic

• Autotracer.org

However, for many images or sensitive content, offline tools are preferred.

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4. Using Python with svgtrace or vectormagic API

You can write a Python script using libraries like svgtrace (a Python wrapper around Potrace) or connect with APIs like Vector Magic for automated batch processing.

Example snippet with Python & svgtrace:

python
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import os
from svgtrace import trace_file

input_folder = "input_images"
output_folder = "output_svgs"

os.makedirs(output_folder, exist_ok=True)

for filename in os.listdir(input_folder):
    if filename.endswith((".png", ".jpg", ".bmp")):
        input_path = os.path.join(input_folder, filename)
        output_path = os.path.join(output_folder, os.path.splitext(filename)[0] + ".svg")
        trace_file(input_path, output_path)

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5. Using Adobe Illustrator (Script Automation)

If you have Adobe Illustrator, you can automate batch tracing via scripts:

• Use the “Image Trace” feature.

• Automate with JavaScript or Actions to batch process a folder of images.

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Summary

• Best for simple black-and-white images: Potrace + ImageMagick.

• For more complex color images: Inkscape manual tracing or Adobe Illustrator scripting.

• For automation: Use CLI tools with batch scripts or Python automation.

• For ease: Online batch converters, but with limitations.

If you want, I can provide a ready-to-use batch script for your platform or specific tool. Just let me know!