Even though I am a novice artist and have just picked up my stylus about six months ago, it has been quite a smooth transition for me from traditional medium to painting online. However here I am going to delve into those few questions that people might have at the back of their minds when they think of venturing into digital art.
Do I need to have a good Laptop/Computer?
Yes, I highly recommend using a good laptop that has a fast processor (at least Intel core i5 8th Gen) A larger RAM (at least 16 GB RAM) and a Graphics card. Preferable a good quality Ultra HD 4k monitor (in case you want to zoom in and have a closer look at the pixels). I personally use Dell XPS 13 (9370) and a simple Wacom tab to draw (Wacom Intuos Drawing tablet). I also use a Samsung UE590 U28E590D 27” UHD HDMI Gaming Monitor which was gifted to me by my husband and it's just amazing!!
What are the different software available to draw online?
I believe there are quite a few good ones out there and it really depends on your budget.
1. Photoshop - This is truly the best when it comes to digital art, slightly expensive but totally worth it. I do not use it though.
2. Procreate - Can be used only with iPads. So its a bit limiting. It has very accurate color picking available, you can work with as many layers, and a lot of other cool features.
3. CorelDraw - I love this and use this one! It is perfect for a beginner as well as for an experienced artist. You can edit photos, create logos, draw, paint, work with layers, lots of brushes, a mixer palette, etc. Do check it out! See what I have painted using this tool here.
4. Affinity Designer - Use this software to create loads of designs and illustrations. The coolest feature here is one million+ percent zoom, isn't that awesome! Make sure you invest in a good monitor though if you plan on purchasing this software. You can always switch to pixel environment as well.
5. Clip Studio Paint - Normally used for drawing Manga and comics. There is a Pro and Ex version of this tool, the Ex version being more advanced and expensive. Artists generally say this is the best for the transition between traditional medium to digital art. But you can judge that for yourself. Make sure you try it first before purchasing.
There are several programs out there but it is really up to you to decide how much of your time and money you would want to invest in it. Is it just for recreation or is it bound to become a career option?
Digital painting is mostly used in production art, conceptual design for film, television and video games. Digital painting software such as Corel Painter, Adobe Photoshop, ArtRage, GIMP, Krita, and openCanvas give us artists the same feeling like painting with a physical medium on canvas. They also give us several options like using special effect brushes, a mixing palette, palette knives, charcoal painting, blenders, sponges, the list goes on. There are pros and cons of digital painting though. Many artists believe that they do experience more control over their brush than holding a stylus. They also believe you cannot add your own essence to a painting done online versus one done on canvas.
Is it easy to draw on the computer?
Quite a tricky question, but the fact remains that if you would like to draw using a software, you need to know how to draw on a sheet of paper as well. The tool will only help you in some ways, you still need to use your imagination and creativity to draw and choose the right colors. Initially, I found it a bit difficult but got over it in a few days, for some it might take weeks or months. The key to drawing well is to practice. And once you get a feel of the stylus, the sky’s the limit.
How long does each painting take?
For me, it sometimes takes a few hours, few days, few weeks or even a couple of months. It really depends on the level of detail in every painting. Landscapes can get done faster, but if there is something with intricate work, I would not put it up for display till I am happy with it and that could take a while at times.
How do you find inspiration to paint?
Well, inspiration is all around you! After I moved to Australia I have witnessed some of the most beautiful beaches, mountains, sunrises, and sunsets. I also do browse online to get some inspiration but it mostly comes from what I probably would be thinking about. I just start on a blank canvas and let the colors flow.
How did I learn to paint online?
I did not learn to paint honestly. I just foraged into it. If you have a look at my initial paintings, you can find them here, you will see I was pretty amateur. I am still learning and will continue to do so. The world is rapidly changing and we need to keep up with the times.
What size of canvas do you work with?
3000 pixels or around this mark. This makes it pretty big for print media. Its easier to scale down than to scale it up once done. If the pixel count is lower, the image might appear blurry on enlarging it.
Do you do requests for painting?
Yes, I do. Feel like you want me to paint something for you, drop me a line here on hello@shaalyn.com
Any final tips for a beginner?
Do not find too much fault in your work. You will always
try to criticize your finished product, but sometimes
just don't. Be proud of what you came up with!
Enjoy drawing and painting, don't be too hard on
yourself. This process is more of a stress buster for me
and I would want the same for you too.
Take breaks
in between, it could get really exciting and you would
not want to get off your chair for hours, but please do.
And finally, be positive and always praise
yourself even if no one else does, because you are worth
it!!
Have any more questions you would like answered? Email me on hello@shaalyn.com
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