Graphics software

Rob · 11-13-2005, 02:32 AM

Is anyone into graphic design?

If so, what software do you use?

I'm a big Photoshop fan. I've been using it for about 4 years now and although I think I only know about 10% of what it can do, I still couldn't live without it

pyowomaniac · 12-01-2005, 01:04 PM

I'm in graphic arts, I've been at it for about 5 years. I use Macromedia Freenhand and Dreamweaver, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, and QuarkExpress. It's ok that you only know 10% of it, that's how we all start. Just play around with Photoshop each day and you'll get better.

brenda003 · 12-01-2005, 11:28 PM

I mostly just do graphics for the web and use Photoshop primarily. I've dabbled with Illustrator but it's got a much higher learning curve. I know what you mean about feeling like you only know 10% of it, though, when I check for tutorials online there's soooo much stuff that can be done, it's pretty amazing. Some day, eh? :lol:

I used to use Gimp.

imported_Steve · 12-01-2005, 11:52 PM

Gimp.. isn't that program for Unix freaks? :P

I use Photoshop but I'm not that great at it.

I don't class myself as very artistic, so I tend to stay away from anything that requires using that side of the brain. :P

pyowomaniac · 12-02-2005, 12:38 PM

Illustrator isn't hard. Once you master using the pen curve then you will be a pro. You should really try some tutorials on using the curves because you'll be able to make all sorts of logos etc.

brenda003 · 12-02-2005, 11:27 PM

Yep, that's Gimp! But I think they actually have a Windows version. I found it to be really user friendly, but I never did a whole lot with it so I don't know what it's capable of. I'm not too artistic, either, but sometimes I like to pretend to me. :lol:

Will.Spencer · 12-03-2005, 02:52 AM

Wow, you're right. There is Gimp for Windows now.

This is awesome, because Photoshop is expensive!

CaitSith4343 · 12-04-2005, 10:53 AM

I use Photoshop like most out there.

I would really like to get a tablet or something that I can draw on straight to my computer though because I am decent at drawing but not very good at using Photoshop.

Is that what Adobe Illustrator is for?

pyowomaniac · 12-04-2005, 01:23 PM

Photoshop isn't really meant for drawing. It's really only meant to be used to modify photos. The pen tool in Photoshop is limited. You should certainly be creating your designs, and words in Adobe Illustrator.

Will.Spencer · 12-04-2005, 02:22 PM

Would it be correct of me to say that Photoshop is meant for bitmap graphics, while Illustrator is meant for vector graphics?

Bender · 12-04-2005, 03:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Will.Spencer

Would it be correct of me to say that Photoshop is meant for bitmap graphics, while Illustrator is meant for vector graphics?

Pretty much yes. Thats why Illustrator is used by real "artists" :P

deuce · 12-06-2005, 08:35 PM

Or you could use Photoshop to soup up a render made in 3dsm, bryce, or c4d. That's real 'art.' And you're creating your own designs.

cmpolis · 12-07-2005, 12:18 AM

For 3D - Check out 3DS Max - it is awsome and is pretty easy to use once you get the hang of it. Just get a book and waste a weekend. It's also quite fun.

-C

kelp · 12-07-2005, 04:11 PM

I've been using Photoshop and Fireworks for a couple of months. The first time you use them, it's hard to get started. You need lots of tutorial practice.

ibnuasad · 12-07-2005, 10:00 PM

I've been using Photoshop for about 2 months now. It's kind of hard to use the tools. But after reading some articles and tutorials, it is getting easier and easier.

imported_Steve · 12-08-2005, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cmpolis

For 3D - Check out 3DS Max - it is awsome and is pretty easy to use once you get the hang of it. Just get a book and waste a weekend. It's also quite fun.

-C

I always wanted to try this, is this what they use to make models for games?
It seems very technical with all the dimensions etc.

pyowomaniac · 12-09-2005, 03:00 PM

Does anybody use AutoCAD? I wonder if there's a way to take those designs and turn them into graphic 3D images.

H Brando · 12-09-2005, 04:44 PM

My graphical needs are very basic. I use Photoshop and Gimp.

Bender · 12-11-2005, 04:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pyowomaniac

Does anybody use AutoCAD? I wonder if there's a way to take those designs and turn them into graphic 3D images.

Never used it.
Isnt that a program for architects?
Im too scared to try it... it looks so complex.

pyowomaniac · 12-11-2005, 06:51 PM

AutoCAD can be used by graphic designers too.

It's not that hard at all. All you have to do is enter the points (X,Y) and it will connect your lines.

It's more complex than connecting the dots, but it's nothing to be scared of.

Fry · 12-15-2005, 02:36 AM

Sounds easy when you put it that way! :P

I want to try it out, but does it require very high system specs?

kbelloise · 12-16-2005, 02:32 PM

I use photoshop now, but used gimp for years. They do have a windows version. It does everything that photoshop does and it's free.

brenda003 · 01-02-2006, 10:45 AM

So my computer has been packed up the last few months which I have Photoshop on (using my hubby's puter). I just put up a new website and used GIMP for the graphics. Pretty spiffy! I'd say it's a lot easier to use than Photoshop. Plus there seems to be quite a lot of plugins written for it, although I haven't checked those out.

Pretty awesome because it's free.

MT400 · 01-02-2006, 04:41 PM

I use Photoshop for the web.

I also am pretty good with Swift 3D. I really like it since you can add it to Macromedia Flash and play around with it. Just can't wait untill Flash has 3D built into it.

Feety · 01-12-2006, 05:23 PM

I use Photoshop Elements 8.0... I beleive its 8.0. Anyway im not too great at it but i can do the basics and such. Adobe has a great line of products for the user to mess around with.