PPT: EPS Graphic with Clipping Path Not Supported (169574)

SYMPTOMS

When you import an Encapsulated PostScript (EPS) file into Microsoft PowerPoint 4.0 for the Macintosh, the graphic appears transparent. If you save the file and then open it in PowerPoint for Windows, the graphic no longer appears transparent.

CAUSE

You may experience this problem when the EPS image is saved with a clipping path from a photo editing program, such as Adobe Photoshop. PowerPoint does not directly support clipping paths. When you import an EPS image that contains a clipping path into PowerPoint for the Macintosh, you see a PICT preview of the graphic. The way this PICT preview is displayed is dependent on the Macintosh operating system.

When you open the presentation in PowerPoint for Windows, PowerPoint translates the PICT graphics primitives (commands) into the closest equivalent Windows graphics device interface (GDI) primitives.

Clipping paths are converted, but they become invisible and no longer mask the image.

For additional information about clipping paths, please see the "More Information" section later in this article.

MORE INFORMATION

Some Macintosh-based photo editing programs, such as Adobe Photoshop, can save a clipping path when you export images as EPS files. A clipping path is a vector description of the edges of a specified element within an image, and it can be used to mask or make part of your image transparent.

Photoshop is manufactured by Adobe Systems, Inc., a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding this product's performance or reliability.