In this tutorial I will show the steps it takes to go from a sketch to a finished illustration and also some good tips on how to keep yourself organized while working on a project in Photoshop. The techniques this tutorial shows is the standard in most of the industry and a great way to become a more professional illustrator and graphic designer. The next tutorial will show some of the techniques I use to create the lighting and shadows on this same illustration. This is our reference image

1. To begin with, it is always best to start with some sketches of the illustration. Very brief, should only take a few minutes each.  By doing this you can have a few versions done quickly to show your client or art director. Then you can discuss what needs to be changed, like composition, object placement, lighting, ect. You can also go over some of the basic color choices.

(more…)

In this tutorial I will be showing you some basic techniques on how to create and set up realistic and believable lighting and shadows. This will be our reference image.

1. The first thing that needs to be done before you start on your illustration is to determine the light source. This should either be decided in the sketch or determined by the photo you are working from. In the example that I am using to show you, the main light source is the sun and the secondary light source is the cell phone screen.

(more…)

In this tutorial you will learn how to create a digital illustration using just stock images, Photoshop and your design skills. This tutorial can get tricky and is a bit long so some good knowledge in Photosop is a plus. If your a beginner, then you will learn some great Photoshop tips and tricks!

(more…)

Flash developers who post their  files and code on blogs and forums to receive help, to give help, to teach, etc, should check some of the popular Flash template sites occasionally.   The flash developer who maintains the blog, No Ponies, recently found a user at FlashDen selling one of his files.  Then he went to another forum and found a user posting some of his other class files.

Add-ons are definitely important. However, how important are they for you? Are you adding-on like crazy or are you more selective? Do you use all your add-ons? If yes, how often? Well, if you do not have enough add-ons yet here are some more …

Read more >>>