Should You Use Online Platforms or Your Own Sftware?

You know, any kind of software that can be used to produce artwork, animations, and more complex medias can be costly, but there are options to consider if money is any object, you are still learning, and you want to get a “feel” for what certain programs do and don’t, before going out on a limb…and that is Open Source Programs, which are graphic design programs that are pretty much on the house, and do a good bit of what out of pocket software does-although depth and amount of features can vary. It all depends on what your desired niche is.

Based on my experience, I’d like to make some recommendations, based on the parameters of skill level and budget friendliness.

Open Source Programs

GIMP

GIMP stands for GNU Image Manipulation Program and is pretty much on the house. Now it’s a little stripped-down in terms of features, but it can be a great learning tool to get your feet wet before making the next step, and purchasing a software program. It’s a cross-platform program that’s a snap to download.

Some other free (albeit limited in features) tools include Pixlr, Phoenix, and Blender; all of which deal in image manipulation purposes. I used Pixlr one time to create a simple banner for something; not the least bit difficult.

Inkscape

This is a program that uses vector drawing. Yep, my main specialty. Its native file format is SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). If my main software ever became corrupted, God willing, I would download Inkscape. The website itself is very user-friendly, with support and How-to pages, and there’s even a gallery of artwork showcased for viewer enjoyment.

Blender.org

Blender is a 3D animation type of platform. My husband has the download, as gaming characters are his “thing” while my “thing” is art per-say. He also had a download of a program called “Scratch” which I understand, enables you to animate characters.

best graphic programs

Some of my programs-older and newer

Purchasable Programs

Adobe Photoshop

Photoshop is the best-known and recommended program for photo editing work. Things such as background removal or change, color tone editing, touch-ups, and applications of filters are the bread and butter of Photoshop. I would recommend Photoshop Elements as it’s a bit more entry-level, meaning it has all the kinds of tools to carry out most desired tasks, but may lack a few more “professional” features necessary in a public venue workflow. Photoshop Elements was included as a bonus with my graphic tablet I own/use.

Adobe Illustrator

This is the program to look into for creating vector work-which involves paths and outlines that connect together to make up an actual drawing, rather than photographic images. Overall, a great tool although I haven’t been on it in about 5 years.

Corel Draw

The program that I spend the most time with, Corel Draw is mainly a vector-based program, similar to Illustrator. The complete kit I own also includes Photo-Paint and Painter. Corel Painter is a tad stripped-down and Photo-Paint is very similar to Photoshop in execution of tasks.

In Conclusion

Also, do not forget that the paid programs described above also have many tutorials made on various techniques used within them, so if you ever find yourself getting stuck, assistance may be a Youtuber away.

Best of luck!!