Help with Graphics

[WindGarden]

If I wanted to draw something like this, what tools (software/hardware) would I need to do this?

[google.com...]

[Birdman]

Photoshop(costs $$) or The Gimp(FREE!) will do the job for you. The hard part is knowing all the techniques involved.

[stef25]

if you want to "draw" from scratch then you need something like Illustrator or Freehand.

[WindGarden]

Well...I do have Adobe Illustrator, and yes, I do want to draw from scratch. Isn't there an easier way to draw freehand without using the mouse? Something like a pen & drawing pad?

[garann]

You could invest in a Wacom tablet. It's a tablet and pressure-sensitive pen that tracks better than a mouse and is more manuverable. In a graphics program like Photoshop, your lines react to the pen pressure so that your lines can taper off and other neat effects. I'm sure there are other brands, but I think Wacom is the most popular.

Hint: if you have a PC with a serial connection, you might be able to find a cheap one. I had to sell mine for a song after switching from Mac to PC and finding that Macs don't have serial ports. :)

[WindGarden]

Thanks....it's exactly what I'm looking for. :) I'll have to check it out. :)

[WindGarden]

This Wacom tablet works well with all the Adobe products, right? (Illustrator and Photoshop?)

[WindGarden]

Ok...so I just ordered the Wacom Tablet. It looks like a really COOL tool to use.

I can't wait for it to arrive so that I can take it for a test drive. :)

Thanks for suggesting this. :)

[stef25]

id like to hear how you like the Wacom. ive thought of getting one myself. please let us know!

[WindGarden]

It has not arrived yet....It sure is taking a while. =\

But I sure will let you know. :)

[Strange]

I got a Wacom tablet a few months ago and I can safely say that I don't know how I ever used photoshop with out it. It's great!

[WindGarden]

I've been using my Wacom tablet since I got it a month ago, I really like it. And has "Strange" have mention, I wouldn't know how I go without it.

It's REALLY COOL and I got a good deal off TigerDirect.com too. =)