Embedding Images in Files

You will need to embed .JPG, .PNG, .GIF, or any other graphic file you are using within your illustrator document that came from an external source.

Otherwise, when illustrator looks for the original file, it won’t be there. These files need to be embedded in order for them to go with your document when you send them to the Maker Studio at MRU or any other place that you are going to be sending the final .AI file you have created. 

Remember to ask your instructor what kind of citation style they would like you to cite the graphic you are using. The library website has links to MLA, APA and Chicago citation guides if you have questions about how to cite an image from the internet, or other source.

To add an image you have saved as a file to the artboard in Illustrator, follow these steps:

1. File, Place
2. Select the file in your folders
3. Click on the artboard to place the file on the artboard

If you drag and drop the file into Illustrator it is not placed in Illustrator, but linked. This will require you to embed the image.

To embed the image follow these steps:

1. Click on the image to select it
2. In the Properties Panel at the top, click on “Linked File” 
   
3. Select the image in the list 
   
4. Click the three lines icon on the right side which will bring up a list of options
   
5. Select “embed Images” located half way down on the grey Linked Image menu that appears
   
6. The image is now embedded in your file and will open on any computer.