Does this vectorize my image?

No. It embeds the raster pixels inside an SVG container as a base64 image — the picture itself is unchanged.

Why is the SVG file larger than the source image?

Base64 text encoding adds roughly 33% overhead compared to the raw image bytes, plus a small amount of SVG markup.

Does transparency survive the wrap?

Yes, when the source has an alpha channel — the embedded PNG data keeps it.

When should I use a real vectorizer instead?

When you need scalable line art or logos that stay crisp at any size — that requires actual path-tracing software, not raster embedding.

Where can I try this?

Use PNG to SVG or JPG to SVG, both processed locally in your browser.

Illustration of a photo card sitting inside a dashed SVG container outline with a "not vector" label

Image guides

Raster Image Inside SVG, Explained

Wrapping a raster PNG or JPG inside an SVG container is not the same as vectorizing it. This guide explains what actually happens, when it is useful, and what its limits are.

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What actually happens

The source image is re-encoded as PNG, converted to base64 text, and embedded inside an <image> element in a valid SVG document sized to match the original pixel dimensions. No tracing, edge-detection, or vector path generation happens — the pixels themselves are unchanged.

Why this is useful anyway

Some web embedding, CMS, or document workflows specifically require a .svg file, even for a photo or screenshot, so it can be dropped alongside genuine vector assets or styled with SVG-aware tooling.

What it does not do

Enlarging the resulting SVG does not add new detail or sharpen edges — the embedded raster content scales exactly like a plain image would. If you need a real vector trace, use dedicated vectorization software instead.

Raster Image Inside SVG FAQ

Does this vectorize my image?: No. It embeds the raster pixels inside an SVG container as a base64 image — the picture itself is unchanged.
Why is the SVG file larger than the source image?: Base64 text encoding adds roughly 33% overhead compared to the raw image bytes, plus a small amount of SVG markup.
Does transparency survive the wrap?: Yes, when the source has an alpha channel — the embedded PNG data keeps it.
When should I use a real vectorizer instead?: When you need scalable line art or logos that stay crisp at any size — that requires actual path-tracing software, not raster embedding.
Where can I try this?: Use PNG to SVG or JPG to SVG, both processed locally in your browser.

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