Aspose.PSD for Python via .NET is a powerful SDK that enables developers to work with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator files programmatically. This guide focuses on how to convert AI to PDF using Aspose.PSD Python, preserving vector data and layers. Whether you need to convert a single AI file or process many files in a batch, the steps below will get you up and running quickly.

AI files often contain complex vector graphics that must remain crisp when exported to PDF. Using the Aspose.PSD SDK ensures that the conversion retains all vectors, layers, and color profiles without quality loss. The following sections walk you through the entire workflow, from installation to performance tips.

Prerequisites and Setup

To start converting AI files to PDF, you need a Python development environment with .NET support. Follow these steps to set up the SDK:

  1. System requirements – Windows, macOS, or Linux with Python 3.7+ and .NET 5+ installed.
  2. Install the SDK – run the pip command:
pip install aspose-psd
  1. Download the latest SDK binaries from the release page.
  2. Read the official documentation for detailed API usage at the documentation.
  3. Optional: For test projects, you can request a temporary license to avoid evaluation limitations.

After installing the package, you can import the library in your Python script and start working with AI files.

Steps to Convert AI to PDF

  1. Install the SDK: Use the pip command shown above to add Aspose.PSD to your project.
  2. Import the library: Add import aspose.psd to your script. This gives you access to the conversion classes.
  3. Load the AI file: Create a PsdImage object pointing to your source .ai file. The SDK reads the vector layers directly.
  4. Configure conversion parameters: If you need specific PDF settings (e.g., compression, PDF version), adjust the PdfExportOptions object.
  5. Save as PDF: Call the save method with the target file name and the PDF format identifier.

For more details, see the documentation and the API reference.

Loading an AI file in Python

The first technical step is to load the AI document. The SDK provides the PsdImage.load method, which parses the AI file and creates an in‑memory representation of all vector objects.

from aspose.psd import Image
# Load the AI file
ai_image = Image.load("example.ai")

Once loaded, you can inspect layers, colors, and other properties before conversion.

Configuring basic conversion parameters

You can control PDF output by using the PdfExportOptions class. Typical settings include embedding fonts, preserving layers, and choosing PDF version.

from aspose.psd import PdfExportOptions
options = PdfExportOptions()
options.embed_all_fonts = True          # Preserve text as selectable
options.preserve_layers = True         # Keep layer information
options.pdf_version = "1.7"

These options are useful when you want to convert AI file to PDF without Losing Vectors Python.

Executing the conversion and saving the PDF

After configuration, invoke the save method on the PsdImage object. The SDK handles the vector rendering and writes a high‑quality PDF file.

# Save as PDF using the configured options
ai_image.save("output.pdf", options)

The resulting PDF retains all vector information, making it ideal for printing or further editing.

Verifying the output file

Open the generated PDF in any viewer to confirm that layers and vectors are intact. You can also programmatically inspect the PDF using Aspose.PDF if needed.

Performance tips for single‑file conversions

  • Reuse the PdfExportOptions object when processing multiple files to reduce overhead.
  • Disable unnecessary features (e.g., image compression) if you only need vector preservation.
  • For bulk operations, consider the Aspose.PSD Python batch convert AI to PDF approach, which loads files in a loop and writes PDFs sequentially.

Next steps for advanced scenarios

  • Explore export AI Vector graphics to PDF via Aspose.PSD Python with custom color profiles.
  • Use the Aspose.PSD Python code for AI to PDF transformation as a base for building a web service or desktop utility.
  • Review the Aspose.PSD Python guide to convert AI to PDF format for deeper configuration options, such as PDF/A compliance.

Convert AI to PDF - Complete Code Example

This example demonstrates how to convert a single Adobe Illustrator (.ai) file to PDF while preserving vectors and layers. It includes error handling and resource cleanup.

Note: This code example demonstrates the core functionality. Before using it in your project, make sure to update the file paths (sample.ai, sample_converted.pdf) to match your actual file locations, verify that all required dependencies are properly installed, and test thoroughly in your development environment. If you encounter any issues, please refer to the official documentation or reach out to the support team for assistance.

Conclusion

In this guide we covered the end‑to‑end process to convert AI to PDF using Aspose.PSD Python, from installing the SDK to fine‑tuning export options. You now have a solid foundation for handling single‑file conversions as well as scaling up with batch processing. The SDK preserves vector quality, layers, and fonts, which is essential for professional publishing workflows.

For production use, you can purchase a license by visiting the pricing page. Alternatively, you can request a temporary license for evaluation purposes. Explore more tutorials on the blog and join the community on the forums for additional support.

FAQs

Q: How can I load an AI file and preserve its layers?
A: Use the Image.load method from the SDK and set options.preserve_layers = True in the PdfExportOptions. This ensures the PDF retains the original layer hierarchy. See the documentation for more details.

Q: What licensing options are available for Aspose.PSD?
A: You can purchase a license by visiting the pricing page. For evaluation, you can request a temporary license.

Q: Where can I find more examples of AI to PDF conversion?
A: The official Aspose.PSD Python Documentation AI to PDF example provides additional snippets and advanced scenarios. The API reference also lists all conversion classes.

Q: Where can I get support if I encounter issues?
A: The Aspose community offers help through the support forums. Post your question there and the team or other developers will assist you.