Is Clip Studio Paint a Good Program for Professionals?

Is Clip Studio Paint a Good Program for Professionals?

Clip Studio Paint is a fabulous piece of software strictly intended for all sorts of different kinds of digital art. It’s what PaintTool Sai wanted to be, and what artists whish Adobe Photoshop was. Since the point is strictly art, it has some great features and a very user-friendly interface that really lets it shine against its competitors.

While Clip Studio Paint is rapidly gaining popularity in the Indie and Freelancer worlds, it hasn’t quite made the leap to most professional projects as anything more than bonus skills.

It’s always good to have as many proficiencies as possible when looking for artistic work, but the likelihood of a larger studio wanting Clip Studio Paint skills exactly is a bit slimmer. However, many of the skills learned and nurtured while using the program are highly transferrable, which might be something to give an edge in a competitive market. Keep reading to learn more about using Clip Studio Paint professionally.

Do Professionals Use Clip Studio Paint?

Unfortunately, most major companies will not list Clip Studio Paint on their job requirements. This is especially true in the animation world where they would prefer programs such as ToonBoom, OpenToonz, or tvpaint. However, it is common enough in Indie development all around. Professionals might also be fond of the program for personal ventures, adding to their skill toolbelt, or just because it is more comfortable in certain situations.

Why Use Clip Studio Paint?

Just because most major studios don’t list Clip Studio Paint Proficiency doesn’t mean it’s a worthless investment. Any time someone can learn new skills it’s a bonus. This is especially true with robust programs such as this which have a huge swath of artistic capabilities to test out.

Here are some reasons why Clip Studio Paint is worth using:

  • Friendly User Interface
  • Photoshop brushes can be imported
  • Can be bought and installed on a tablet
  • Desktop version is a one-time fee instead of subscription-based use
  • Tablet version has a low subscription fee
  • Various types of digital art can be done
  • Ai technology
  • Ability to open PSD files and most similar
  • Easy to learn new skills
  • Significant community
  • Tons of assets
  • LT Conversion
  • Lots of customizability

If nothing else, it is a fabulous tool for personal ventures. Many freelancers and small studios dedicated to art will likely use it since it doesn’t have all of that extra gunk bogging it down like Photoshop. It’s an amazing tool for artists that can happily do just about anything they’re going to need.

What Kinds of Digital Art can be Done with Clip Studio Paint?

When it comes to what sorts of art can be done with Clip Studio Paint, a shorter list might actually be what can’t be done with it. While it is more suited to illustration, it works pretty well for most things as long as the right version is purchased.

Here are some different kinds of digital art that can be done with Clip Studio Paint:

  • Animation
  • Storyboarding
  • Comics
  • Digital painting
  • Illustration
  • Vector
  • 3D
  • Concept Art
  • Graphic Design

The whole point of the program is to be an art software, so it doesn’t have a bunch of extra features that programs such as Photoshop will have. That also means it was built with artists in mind, so things make a little more sense and have stronger customization abilities than Adobe’s star program.

What are the Differences Between Clip Studio Paint Versions?

There are two versions of Clip Studio Paint. The desktop version is a one-time fee, whereas the tablet versions come with a modest subscription-based fee.

Here are some differences between both of the major versions:

PROEX
One-Time Fee of $49.99 USD

Subscription Fee starting at $0.99 USD/mo

More focused on single-page Illustration

Up to 24 frames of animation
One-Time Fee of $219 USD

Subscription Fee starting at $2.49 USD/mo

Multi-page projects

Unlimited frames of animation

There is also the bonus of having a free trial of both versions that goes up to three months. Pro can be upgraded to EX at any time, and EX can be downgraded to pro just the same. Additionally, the program regularly goes on sale, so it is worth keeping an eye out especially since there is only a one-time fee for desktop users.

Conclusion

While Clip Studio Paint might not be directly asked for in most professional fields, it is still an amazing piece of software for digital artists. It is loved by the Indie and freelancer communities especially, and it’s always a useful thing to have as many artistic tools in the belt as possible since the field is so competitive. If nothing else, the free trial makes it worth checking out and trying before diving in.

Is Affinity Photo Good for Drawing?

Affinity Photo is an excellent program for drawing. It’s a vector-based drawing program meant to work with real-world objects. It has a clean and straightforward interface that makes it easy to use. It also has a host of great tools for drawing.

If you are looking to learn to draw, Affinity Photo is a great program. It is beginner-friendly and focuses on creativity and experimentation rather than strict rules or methodologies. While it can be a little overwhelming at first, you’ll find it advantageous once you get used to it.

When you first start using it, you may feel like it will be a lot to take in. But with a bit of practice, you’ll soon find that it’s not as challenging as you think. Keep reading the tutorial below to find out how to start drawing with Affinity Photo.

Basics of Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is straightforward to use. You’ll be right at home if you’ve used other drawing programs before, like Photoshop. The interface is very similar, and you’ll find that the tools are familiar and responsive.

To get started, open up the program and then click on “New Document.” You can also click on “File” and select “New” or press Ctrl+N to create a new document. You can also click on the “+” button at the bottom of the page to create a new document if you want to start with a fresh one.

Working with Layers in Affinity

Photo Layers are an important part of any drawing program because it allows you to work separately on different parts of your drawing without affecting each other. This is especially useful for people who want to focus more on specific parts of their drawings without worrying about messing up their whole drawings.

Layers are also useful for beginners who don’t want to get overwhelmed by all the tools available in Affinity Photo. They can work on one layer at a time and then add more layers later on when they’re more comfortable with the program.

To create a new layer, you can click on the “+” button at the bottom of the page, or you can click on “Layer” and select “New Layer.” You can also press Ctrl+Shift+N to create a new layer to start with a fresh one.

How to Draw with Affinity Photo

To use Affinity Photo, you will need to have a photo you want to draw. There are many ways to go about this. The easiest way to get a photo you want to use is to find a photo you like and then draw a sketch of what you think it looks like. You can also search the Internet for free art photos, or you can borrow someone’s photo if you don’t have your own.

If you are doing a portrait, you can get a headshot photo and try to draw a rough sketch of your face. If you want to draw a basic outline of a shape like a house or a car, you can take a photo of the house or car and then draw the house or car outline in Affinity Photo. Once you have the outline of your drawing, you can fill in the details such as the windows, the doors, and the roof.

Once you are happy with your outline, you can take a photo of the completed drawing and then analyze the photo to see what parts you want to keep and what you want to change. By looking at different photos, you will see what parts of the drawing you can keep and what you will have to let go of.

How to Draw with Color

The first thing you’ll need to do is find a color you like. You can either look through your digital photos or use a color picker to select the colors you like. Once you have a few colors, sketch what color you want on paper. Once you have the outline of your drawing, you can fill it in using the color you selected.

The program will suggest the best possible color for the parts of your drawing that are white or have a limited color range, like a house or a car. Affinity Photo is good at helping you understand the different nuances of color and how they relate to various subjects and objects. Once you have a few examples of different colors, you can try out different combinations to see what works for you.

Step-by-Step Drawing Tutorial with Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a very powerful photo editing app. It has a lot of great tools for editing and manipulating your photos. This tutorial will walk you through how to draw with Affinity Photo.

Steps

If you want to start drawing with Affinity, you need to:

  1. Go to the Draw tab in Affinity Photo and select the pencil tool. You can also select Pencil to ensure that you’re using the pencil tool that allows you to draw without any pressure on your finger.
  2. Please select an area of your photo that you want to draw on and start drawing on it! Draw as long as you want! You can even change colors while you are drawing if you like!
  3. Once you have finished, go back into Edit mode by clicking on the Pencil icon or pressing CTRL + E (Windows) or CMD + E (Mac).
  4. Select the Eraser Tool and erase any part of your drawing that you don’t want to keep.
  5. Save your picture! This will allow you to share it with others. You can also save it as a JPEG or PNG file and use Affinity Photo for more advanced editing.

Conclusion

Drawing with Affinity Photo is a simple way to draw pictures with your digital camera or phone. It’s a fun and easy way to draw pictures of your friends and family or yourself!

Is Bitmap A Lossy Or Lossless Format?

When choosing which file type to use for uploading an image, chances are you will come to find Bitmap (BMP) files. You want to make sure your image retains as much quality as possible, and comparing file types is the best way to do this. One thing to consider is whether a file type is lossy or lossless. So, is bitmap a lossy or lossless format?

Bitmap is a lossless format and is an excellent file type for images, particularly of larger sizes. While BMP files may not typically contain initial features of other file types, BMP files can be altered to better suit your upload needs.

Continue reading to learn more about whether bitmap is a lossy or lossless format as well as other features that make it comparable to various file types. It might not be the best choice in every situation, but there are certainly benefits to using a BMP file.

Is Bitmap A Lossy Or Lossless Format?

Bitmap is a lossless format, making it great for storing large, high-quality images that stay the same when you upload the image. When a file type is lossless, it means that even details on the image that are otherwise unseen by the human eye remain a part of the image upon conversion.

When using an image for your graphic design endeavors, whether it be your preference or simply works better for your design, the ability to maintain the original image while converting and uploading may be essential. So, whenever you save an image as a BMP file, it will remain perfectly accurate upon uploading.

As you will learn shortly, bitmap files provide other attributes that make them useful for certain scenarios. A BMP file’s lossless format, however, is perhaps the most key aspect in making sure the image remains the same when you upload it for a graphic design project. 

Is Bitmap Compressed or Uncompressed?

One thing to note about BMP files is that they are preferred by those looking to save an exceedingly large image. Doing so is a huge advantage for bitmap files, although not everyone sees the attribute as necessary in all cases.

Typically, bitmap files are uncompressed, meaning that saving an image as a BMP file maintains its quality but prevents it from reducing the amount of digital information. This is useful for large images, but it subtracts from the amount of storage on your device more quickly than a compressed file type.

If a file type is compressed, the image will be rid of information that is not essential to the image itself. The file releases non-critical data to save storage space while still being able to appear theoretically the exact same when re-uploaded. For images that could use substantial storage space, compressed file types are practical.

In some cases, you can compress a BMP file. However, note that bitmap files are uncompressed by default. Depending on if your computer has a pre-installed program, you may be able to simply right-click on the image, click “Send To”, and choose the option that says something along the lines of “Compressed Folders”. There are also online programs that allow you to compress your BMP file.

Is Bitmap Better Than PNG?

When comparing lossless, uncompressed BMP files to other file types, one of the most common rivals is Portable Network Graphics (PNG) files. PNG files are lossless, compressed files, making them a familiar favorite among graphic designers.

Bitmap files are better than PNG files in some circumstances, while PNG files are better in others. BMP files are useful for when you have the storage space and want to edit the most minute details in your image, while PNG files provide an almost equally high-quality image while saving space.

If you are experienced in graphic design – particularly with editing intricately – you will appreciate the higher quality of a BMP file over a PNG file. On the other hand, PNG files still retain excellent quality while using compression to save space on your computer. 

One major downside to BMP files is that they typically have a limit of 4GB. While the entire 4 GB can be recovered upon uploading, PNG files can compress and almost fully retain the quality of images up to or more than 140GB. BMP files are favored among graphic designers for storing images over long periods.

Is Bitmap High-Quality?

As you have learned, Bitmap files keep your image definition as crisp as before you convert it into a Bitmap. BMP files are raster formats, meaning they are comprised of a bunch of individual pixels. Each of these pixels is held intact when converted into a Bitmap, making editing even the smallest details on a BMP file a breeze. 

Placeit For Graphic Design

Regarding the creating, saving, converting, and downloading of images and designs, there is no better software to recommend than Placeit. Placeit has thousands of logos, templates, layouts, and designs for you to choose from, customize, and create all of your graphic design projects.

Takeaway

Bitmap is a lossless, uncompressed, raster file type that is great for storing large images and editing small details. While it does not check every box in terms of efficiency and practicality, there are certainly pragmatic uses for BMP files.

Is DaFont a Safe Website for Fonts?

Finding a source for free fonts online can be a more daunting task than it initially seems. That’s because there are a lot of questionable websites out there that either offer fonts that aren’t truly copyright free, or even some that attach trojans and viruses to their downloads. Since DaFont is growing in popularity, it’s only natural to ask if it is a safe website for fonts?

DaFont is one of the safest websites out there for downloading free fonts. While fonts can be uploaded by users, they are curated to ensure they are legal and safe to use. Still, anytime you’re downloading something off the internet it’s good to have some antivirus software just in case. 

If you’re thinking about using DaFont, but you’re hesitant because you’ve seen less reputable sites in the past, we’ve got you covered. In our guide below, we will cover everything from whether or not the fonts on DaFont are legal to their safety if you download them. We will even provide you with a list of great free font websites. With that, let’s just dive right in!

Is DaFont Legal?

Along with safety, another consideration you must make is whether or not the fonts on DaFont are legal to use. Fortunately, the fonts on DaFont are all public domain and therefore legal for use. You can use these fonts for personal or commercial reasons. 

You can, of course, also donate to the maker of the font if you would like to give back. It’s always good to do so as it ensures these fonts will continue to be created in the future. 

Are All the Fonts on DaFont Safe?

Even if most of the fonts on DaFont are safe, there’s still a chance that some of them may not be. Therefore, we must ask the question, are all the fonts on DaFont safe?

All of the fonts on DaFont should be safe to download because they are specifically curated for the website. They can’t be uploaded by just anyone. Still, it’s a good idea to scan any files you download for viruses just in case. 

What is the Safest Place to Download Fonts?

DaFont isn’t the only safe option out there. There are loads of other sites that also offer safe, public domain fonts that you can use to spice up any project. 

Below we’ve outlined some of the safest sites you can use to download free fonts online: 

  • DaFont: As we’ve outlined above, DaFont is one of the most reputable font websites around. You can feel safe choosing between over 60,000 different fonts that have been curated specifically for the website. 
  • Google Fonts: Google Fonts is far and away the most well known source for fonts online. They offer countless free fonts that can even be used for commercial purposes. If you want the safest font site available then go with Google Fonts. 
  • FontSpace: With nearly 100,000 free fonts available, you will be hard pressed to find a better selection than what is on FontSpace. Plus it is known as being one of the safest places to download fonts. You can’t beat that. 
  • FontSquirrel: FontSquirrel not only allows you to download free fonts, but it allows you to convert fonts for web embedding as well. This is the perfect place to go if you need fonts for a project like a new webpage. 
  • Placeit: While Placeit isn’t just a font website like the others on this list, it does provide a slew of professionally designed fonts that can be used in your own designs. Placeit not only provides a library of fonts but it also allows you to create designs ranging from logos and Twitch emotes to those for clothing and advertisements. 

So Really, Is DaFont a Safe Website for Fonts?

At the end of the day, DaFont is not only safe but also one of the safest sites available for free fonts. You can download any font from the site without worry of it carrying a virus because they have been curated for quality assurance. Additionally, you can freely use the fonts however you want because they are all in the public domain. 

If you want to find other sites as well, feel free to check out Google Fonts, FontSpace and FontSquirrel, as they are all also excellent, safe options. If you want to use fonts in a new way to create full fledged designs also consider trying out Placeit. Their logo maker is loaded with fonts designed by professionals that can be used in any project. Best of luck!

InDesign Text Frame Grayed Out? [How to Fix It]

If you are working with InDesign and you have a background in typography, you know that typography is essential for creating professional-looking documents. But even the best type can get caught up in an in-opposable gray area. That’s where text frame options come in. Text frame options are settings that are specific to text frames.

If you have InDesign text frames that are grayed out, you can fix it by going to the Appearance, then Text Frame Options and changing the background color to something other than black.

If you are unfamiliar with text frames, then you might think they only apply to headings, subheadings, and categories. However, they can also be used for any text that is contained inside a frame. In this article, you will learn how to fix InDesign Text Frame Options. If you are a first-time InDesign user, you might want to check out the text frame options’ main settings first. This will help you avoid making any changes accidentally.

How to Fix InDesign when Text Frame Options are Grayed Out?

If you have InDesign text frames that are grayed out, you can fix it by going to the Appearance, then Text Frame Options and changing the background color to something other than black.

When the text frame is grayed out, it means that InDesign does not recognize the frame as an outline. You can fix this issue by going to the View then Print Layout or Exported as PDF options and changing the Shape option from Circle to Oval or Square.

When the frame is active, you will notice an added benefit as the outline appears more clearly. In cases where the outline is not needed, you can also change the background color of the frame to darken it and make it easier to read from a distance.

How to Access InDesign Text Frame Options

When you select a frame in InDesign, you will notice a few options at the bottom of the frame options panel: “Offset”, “Padding”, “Inner Padding”, “Outer Padding”, “Frame Sizing”, and “Shading”. The “Frame Sizing” option is where text frame options are found.

To access this option, select the “Show Frame Sizing Options” checkbox underneath the “Frame Sizing” option in the “Frame” menu. From here, you will be able to set the following parameters:

  • “To Bottom” – Sets how much text is allowed to be contained within the frame. If you select an option that allows you to set the entire frame, then you can simply set this to “Top” to have your frame completely contained within the page. If you want your frame to span the full page, but not completely cover it, then set this to “Bottom”.
  • “To Top” – Sets how much text is allowed to be contained within the frame. If you select an option that allows you to set the entire frame, then you can simply set this to “Bottom” to have your frame completely contained within the page. If you want your frame to span the full page, but not completely cover it, then set this to “Top”.
  • “Padding” – Sets the padding on all four sides of the frame. If you leave this set to “0”, then the frame will have no padding.
  • “Inner Padding” – Sets the padding on the inside of the frame. If you leave this set to “0”, then the frame will have no padding.
  • “Outer Padding” – Sets the padding on the outside of the frame. If you leave this set to “0”, then the frame will have no padding.
  • “Frame Sizing” – Sets the amount of space that is allotted around the frame. Any excess space will be cut off by the margins.
  • “Shading” – Sets the quality of the shading used to create the frame. The available options are: “No Shading”, “Standard”, “Custom”, and “Light”.

How to Change the Brightness of InDesign Text Frame Options

If you want to brighten up the leading edges of your text frames, select the “Brightness” option under the “Inner Padding” section of the frame settings. This will adjust the amount of space between your text frames, making them look more like Instagram posts. The text will also look a bit more slanted towards the right side of the frame, making it look like the post is being viewed from the left side of the frame.

To adjust the brightness of your text, click the “Brightness” option to the right of your text frame. Similarly, if you want to brighten up the middle of your text frames, select the “Middle Strength” option. This will adjust the space between your text frames, making them look more like Instagram posts. The text will also look a bit more slanted towards the center of the frame, making it look like the post is being viewed from the center of the frame.

To adjust the middle of your text frames, click the “Middle Strength” option to the right of your text frame. Here, you can set the following parameters:

  • “Brightness” – Changes the overall brightness of the frame. The available options are: “Bright”, “Normal”, and “Dark”.
  • “Color” – Sets the color of the text frame options. The available options are “Black”, “White”, and “Color”.
  • “Weight” – Sets the heaviness of the outline around the frame. The available options are: “Heavy”, “Standard”, and “Light”.

How to Remove an InDesign Text Frame Option

If you no longer need a frame with a specific option, you can simply remove it from the document. Click on the “Frame” menu and select “Remove Frame”. This will remove the frame from the page, but not from the InDesign workspace.

To remove a frame from the page, select it, click on the “Frame” menu, and select “Remove Frame”. To remove a frame from the InDesign workspace, select it, click on the “Frame” menu, and select “Delete Frame”. This will also delete the frame from your computer.

Conclusion

The text frame options in InDesign are a fantastic tool that can help you create professional-looking documents. They can be used to add additional information to the document and make the overall layout look more professional.

Is a PNG File Considered a Vector File?

People often confuse the various image file types. While the distinction is usually not important to an end-user, knowing the difference can make or break your graphics design career. This is because you need the right graphics software when editing them. Despite this, most people erroneously think PNG files are vector images.

While a popular belief, PNG files are not vector-based files. They are a type of raster file. This is because they store graphics information as a series of points. In contrast, vector files such as SVG store data as equations or vectors that your computer computes on the fly.

Each type of graphics file has its advantages and disadvantages. By reading further, you will learn how to identify raster and vector graphics as well as their benefits and ideal uses.

Is a PNG File a Vector Image?

When starting a graphics project, you must first decide on the type of graphics file you need. That is because different graphics applications work with different formats. However, most people confuse PNG files with PDF, then get frustrated when their applications reject or cannot read their files.

This is because PDF and PNG files are vastly different things. One is a vector and document format while the other is a raster image file. Both are high-quality versatile digital graphics formats, but they have different roles and purposes.

PNG Files and Raster Images

Created to improve the performance of GIF files, the Portable Network Graphics (PNG) image format offers high-quality, lossless, digital images in a raster format. It also has a broader and brighter color palette and transparent backgrounds. It is also an open-source format compatible with most image editing software.

As a raster or bitmap image file type, PNG files store your graphics information as a series of pixels. The size of these pixels is defined by the initial resolution used to create the graphics and is, therefore, a fixed number. As a result, you cannot scale a PNG image all that well.

Despite this limitation, PNG files are the most preferred image format on the Internet for logos, charts, or anything else that does not require scalability. This is because the format retains its high-quality original data even when compressed.

Other Popular Raster Image Formats

PNG is not the only raster image format. As the original digital image type, several different raster formats graced digital publishing and the Internet. All of them do the same thing: store image data as pixels, but they all added extra features that made them useful in certain situations.

  • Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG or JPG) – JPEG files are perfect for photographs, especially online. They offer the perfect balance of file size and quality that keeps your photos crisp and not pixelated at most resolutions. However, they cannot have transparent backgrounds. As a result, JPGs are always rectangular with a solid background.
  • Portable Network Graphics (PNG) – As mentioned above, PNG files allow transparent backgrounds, but they also offer higher quality and larger image sizes. As such, people use PNG files as a general-purpose raster image format.
  • Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) – GIF is an older format that can only display up to 256 colors, but people still use it because of how small they can make GIF files. GIFs also support small animated sequences, making them great for simple graphics such as icons, buttons, and charts.
  • Tag Image File Format (TIFF or TIF) – The TIFF format allows for really large image files, making them perfect for professional-grade printing operations. However, their size makes them unusable for online applications.

What are Vector Files?

As an alternative to the raster formats, vector images offer more flexibility. These files use mathematical equations and formulas to generate graphics which lets you resize them without losing clarity or quality. This design also makes these image formats much smaller than their raster counterparts.

However, this feature makes them slow to render, making them unsuitable for most web applications. They also require special dedicated vector graphics edition solutions such as Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape. As a result, you cannot use vector formats to store photographs and other complex images.

Still, the versatility of vector files makes them perfect for scalable graphics applications. As such, most companies keep their logos, business cards, and other brand graphics master files in vector formats.

Common Types of Vector Files

If you need vector graphics for your project, one of the following formats will do. Just make sure you have an editor for your chosen format. Unlike raster formats, vector image types tend to be proprietary and exclusive to particular applications or suites.

  • Portable Document Format (PDF) – Originally proprietary to Adobe software, the now open-source PDF format can store either vector or raster images. However, they are generally just vector files used to store undeniable published documents.
  • Encapsulated PostScript (EPS) – EPS is an old vector graphics format used to store printable text documents and illustrations. You can also readily reopen and reedit them, but the format is not suitable for other applications as it does not support transparent backgrounds.
  • Adobe Illustrator Artwork (AI) – AI is Adobe Illustrator’s native proprietary format and therefore can only be used with that application. As such, most people use it as their working master file when working with Adobe’s graphics suite.
  • Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) – SVG is the open-source alternative to AI that supports animation and scalability. As a result, it is the most commonly used master working format for most graphics suites. They also support the XMK programming language, making the format very useful for web applications as most search engines can read them. However, not every browser or email application can read them.
  • CorelDRAW Artwork (CDR) – CDR is the native working format for the CorelDRAW application, a popular alternative to Adobe Illustrator. Unlike AI, CDR is currently a universal standard format supported by many applications.

Conclusion

Despite what some may believe, PNG images are not a vector image format. Instead, they fall under the raster digital image classification. This distinction has specific consequences regarding when you can use the format, and when you should choose something else.

Is Adobe InDesign Worth the Cost? Is It the Right Choice for You?

Adobe InDesign is a powerful and flexible design program that can be used to create professional-looking documents with a minimal learning curve. It’s also a cost-effective alternative to other design software packages that offer fewer features for a higher price.

Adobe InDesign is a great product and can be a very powerful tool for graphic designers. However, the price may be too high for some people. If you are serious about your design work, InDesign will likely be a good match, however if you are a casual designers, you may want to consider something like Placeit.net because it’s more affordable and more beginner-friendly.

However, if you are a casual user who is looking for a versatile, affordable option that offers a variety of features, InDesign might be the right choice for you. Keep reading to learn more about this versatile program and see if it’s the right choice for you.

What Is Adobe InDesign and Is It Worth the Cost?

Adobe InDesign is a popular design program that allows users to create professional-looking documents with a minimal learning curve. It’s also a cost-effective alternative to other design software packages that offer fewer features for a higher price.

InDesign was originally created by Aldus, Inc as an electronic page-layout program. This software was later acquired by Adobe Systems in 1994, Inc and has since become one of its most successful products.

The InDesign software allows you to create these documents from scratch or from an existing template. In addition to its page layout capabilities, InDesign also has a variety of tools that allow you to create sophisticated graphics and animation effects. These features make the software ideal for creating marketing materials and advertisements.

InDesign Is Not Only for Designers

InDesign is also a great tool for anyone who wants to create professional-looking documents.

It is especially useful when you want to create digitized content like brochures, posters, business cards, and websites. You can use it to create presentations, print advertisements, or create digital mockups. It also works well when you are just starting out as it offers step-by-step tutorials as you go.

Advantages of Using InDesign

As a professional designer, you can create documents without having to worry about the mess behind the scenes. It works like a word processor, so you can focus on creating your masterpiece without having to worry about the formatting and layout. With InDesign, you can create and edit content by using text boxes, frames, and tables. It also offers hundreds of features that allow you to manipulate text and images in an easy manner.

  1. Simple learning curve
  2. InDesign works well with a variety of file types
  3. Advanced layout features

1. Simple learning curve

After just a few weeks of usage, you will feel confident using this program. Although it is a complex software, it has a user-friendly interface and offers a lot of helpful tutorials and exercises to get you started.

2. InDesign works well with a variety of file types

You can use it to create documents in all major file types, including AI, EPS, PDF, and PSD. You can also use it to create web content in HTML, CSS, and BJP 2.0.

3. Advanced layout features

You will find many advanced layout features such as guides, guides and contours, ability to specify the length or angle of bends, and more in this program.

Disadvantages of Using InDesign

It is not all sunshine when it comes to using InDesign. It has a few drawbacks that you should know about before using it:

  1. Many features are hidden
  2. InDesign is not free
  3. Expensive
  4. No support

1. Many features are hidden

Many of the features you need to use are hidden and may take some time to find. You will need to go through the online help section for a better understanding of each feature.

2. InDesign is not free

It costs $20 per month or $240 per year. This makes it one of the most expensive software products in its category.

3. Expensive

Although the price of Adobe InDesign is lower than that of some other popular design software programs, it still costs quite a bit of money. If you are serious about your design work, you might want to consider a different design software program instead of spending money on InDesign.

4. No support

Although you can find help and support for InDesign on the Adobe InDesign User Forum, there is no official support service. You are on your own when it comes to using this program and its features.

Conclusion

Adobe InDesign is a versatile and affordable design software that offers a variety of features for a reasonable price. Due to its flexibility, you can use it to create any type of design. If you are looking for an professional design software that works well with a variety of file types and has plenty of features, InDesign is a great choice. If you are looking for a more casual design software, consider something like Placeit.net due to it’s affordable price and ease of use.

How to Send a Source File to a Fiverr Client

If you’re a seller on Fiverr, you can offer your clients source files as an extra. Fiverr allows your clients to opt-in to receive this extra at an additional cost. Source files typically contain program instructions or source code. Many designers use them to create their designs and offer them to the client, so they have the option of editing or printing scalable versions.

There are 3 ways to send a source file to a Fiverr client:

  1. Through Fiverr
  2. Dropbox
  3. Google Drive

Keep reading to get a step-by-step breakdown of each method.

How to Set Up Source Files in Fiverr

Providing a source file to a client is a business judgment call. The client may request it, but designers reserve the right to their intellectual property— which is why it is imperative to make it clear in your Fiverr gig what you are willing to provide.

If you desire to provide nothing more than the finished product, you may want to include a disclaimer in the gig that you do not provide source files. If you are willing to provide source files, Fiverr has a way for you to include them as an “extra” in your gig.

You can add a source file two ways, as an included file in the overall gig cost or as an extra with an added fee. To set up a source file as an option, follow these easy steps:

  1. Once you’ve logged into Fiverr as a seller, click on your profile picture at the top right-hand corner, then select “Profile.”
  2. On your profile, select “Create a New Gig.”
  3. Fill out the first page of information for “Overview,” then select “Save & Continue” at the bottom right-hand corner.
  4. In “Scope & Pricing,” there is an option to check the “Source File” box when creating your Basic, Standard, and Premium packages.
  5. If you would like to add it as an extra, scroll down to “Add Extra Services” and select the box next to “Source File.”
  6. Fill out the price for the extra service, then select “Save & Continue.”

Once you’ve added this option, wait for a client to book your gig and submit the file upon delivery.

3 Ways to Send a Source File to a Fiverr Client

Luckily, when using Fiverr, it is really easy to send a source file. There are three main ways you’ll be able to do this.

1. Deliver Through Fiverr

Since Fiverr gives you the option to add “Source File” as an extra service or as part of the overall gig, the platform will also provide a way to get it to your client once the work is completed and you’re ready to deliver. Log into Fiverr as a seller and select the three black lines at the top left-hand corner to open up a menu. Select ” Dashboard ” from the menu, and you will be taken to your “Active Orders.”

  1. Select the “Active Order” you want to submit and hit “Deliver Now.”
  2. Attach your regular file> Upload Work.
  3. Attach the source file> Upload Source Files.
  4. Write a brief description of the work you’ve done> Deliver Work.

2. Deliver With Dropbox

If you deliver your source file on Fiverr, there is a 5 GB limit. If your file is larger and you don’t want to go through the work of splitting a large file into multiple smaller pieces, you can use Dropbox. Dropbox file size limit is 50 GB. There are two ways to share a Dropbox file, via email or a link.

Fiverr does not allow the sharing of personal information, like email addresses. If you request an email from a client in Fiverr chat, a warning will populate that you could be in violation of Fiverr’s terms and services. Share the source file via a Dropbox link to protect your seller account.

To obtain the link to the Dropbox file:

  1. Log in to Dropbox.
  2. Hover your cursor over the file>click the share icon.
  3. Select one of two options from the dropdown menu, “can edit” or “can view.”
  4. If the link has already been created, select “Copy Link.”
  5. If it hasn’t been created, you can select “Create.”

Upon delivery of the Fiverr order, paste the link in the dialogue box where you would write your description of the work you’ve done. Be sure to inform the client what the link pertains to and how to access it. Clients don’t need a Dropbox account to access the file via the link, and they can download the file to their computer. However, any edits they make to the file will not sync with Dropbox.

3. Deliver With Google Drive

For an even large file size limit, Google Drive allows 750 GB per day, whether one document or multiple documents. If you would like to use this avenue to deliver your source file, the process is very similar to Dropbox. Google Drive gives you two options for sharing your file, via email or a link. Again, the link is the recommended method for delivery to avoid any potential violation of Fiverr’s terms and services.

To obtain the Google Drive file link:

  1. Log in the Google Drive.
  2. Upload the file.
  3. If the file opens in Google Drive, click on the three dots at the top right-hand corner of your screen.
  4. A menu will open, and an option to “Copy Link” will be among the options, select this option.
  5. A black pop-up dialogue box should appear at the bottom of the screen informing you that the link has been copied to your clipboard.

The process is slightly different if the file should open up in Google Docs rather than Google Drive. Once you’ve clicked on the three dots at the top right-hand corner, you will first select “Share & Export” before clicking on “Copy Link.” Once you’ve obtained the link, follow the same steps for delivery on Fiverr as outlined under the Dropbox section.

Conclusion

Though the preferred way to send a source file is through Fiverr, you have a few other options should your file size be over 5 GB or should your client have difficulty opening your initial attempt at sharing the source file.

How to Open a DMG File in Adobe XD

For those who own a Mac, DMG files are a familiar sight. A DMG file is Apple’s Disc Image File. Instead of using a physical disc to download software to your mac, you can download it straight from the internet. DMG files are designed for compression, file spanning, as well as encryption. Opening one on your Mac is pretty self-explanatory and does not require too much in the way of an explanation.

However, because DMG files are specifically designed for Apple products, it is not quite so simple to open them on other programs such as Windows, or in our specific case Adobe XD. However, it is still possible to open them in Adobe XD, and we will explain how to do so step by step. Read on to find out how.

How Do I Open A DMG File in Adobe XD?

To open a DMG file in Adobe XD it does require that you download a user interface (UI) kit, which gives you common elements such as familiar buttons, navigation bars, and so on.

How To Download Adobe UI Kits

To download this UI kit, go into Adobe XD and take the following steps:

  1. Click the file button. This will be located in the upper left corner and will either say “File” or will be indicated by a button with three horizontal lines.
  2. Next, find the button labeled “Get UI Kits”. You will have several options available. Pick the one that says “Apple IOS.”
  3. This will take you to developer.apple.com. This is their resources page, where you will be able to find Adobe XD’s UI kit.
  4. Click the option labeled “Download for Adobe XD”. This will download the file to your computer.
  5. Double click on the file. You will be asked to accept an agreement to continue. Once you do you will have access to the folder.
  6. Double click the folder labeled “13 Adobe XD”. Now you will be able to see what is in the folder.
  7. Save the guides and lessons that you find in the folder, to an area that you will remember and is easy to access. You will be referring back to these often during the next part, so it is important that you can get to them quickly and that they do not get lost.
  8. Next, download the SF fonts. There are two ways to do this. You can either go back to the same window where you double-clicked “13 Adobe XD” and instead double-click the item labeled “Download San Francisco.webloc”. This will take you to a webpage where you can click the SF Pro Fonts button to download.

If you have already closed out the window you can still get to the download page by clicking this link: developer.apple.com/fonts/.

  • Locate your downloads and double-click on the file to open it. Follow the directions on how to download the fonts.

How Do I Open the File Once I’ve Downloaded the UI Kit?

Once you have downloaded the UI Kit and the proper fonts, you should be good to go with opening it and transferring it to the file you are working on. First, open up your file in Adobe XD that you want to bring the UI Kit to, and take the following steps:

Go back into the lessons and guides. If you are not already, get back into Adobe XD and click “File”, then click “Open from your computer”. Scroll and click on the folder labeled “UI Elements+Design Templates+Guides”, then on the file labeled iphone.xd.

From here, you have a few options for what to do. To see everything press the Command and the 0 buttons. On the other hand, to narrow down your search, you will need to add the status bar. To do this, open up the Layers panel, type “status bars” in the search field (indicated by the magnifying glass), and then click on it to add it.  

Clear out the search field by clicking the X button to the right of it, then click on the folder icon, located to the left of the Status bar button. This will open up a list of status bars for you to choose from. Go through each status bar and click them until you have selected a status bar with dark text and a status bar with white text. To see the content of each of the status bars, click the folder to the left of them.

Select both of the status bars, by pressing the “Command” and “Control” keys, click on both bars to select them. To copy them, right-click with your mouse, click “Copy”, then paste them into your document using the “Command” and “V” buttons. When you have pasted everything that you need to into your document, close out any other files then save your document.

If you continue working on your project, make sure to refer back to the lessons and guides that you downloaded to transfer everything that you need over. Make sure to save as you go along so that no progress is lost.

Conclusion

DMG files are a way for Mac owners to download the necessary software updates and plug-ins that they need. However, because it is designed for Apple products, there may be certain programs where it is tricker to open a DMG file. If you are working on a project in Adobe XD, you will need to download the UI kit and then copy it to the Adobe XD file you are working on.

You can access the UI kit by clicking “File”, “Get UI Kits”, and Apple IOS. This will take you to Apple’s resource page where you will be able to download the kit, which contains all the guides and content that you will need to transfer over.

After you have downloaded the kit, refer back to each part to properly copy and transfer what you need back to your file. Carry on, until you have transferred everything, making sure to save and close out as needed.

How to Get Used to Using a Drawing Tablet [10 Tips]

If trying to get going with digital art, a drawing tablet is almost a necessity. Drawing with a mouse can be done, but it definitely is a lot more awkward than using a stylus. However, just because it is a wildly popular tool doesn’t mean that it’s going to come naturally to everyone.

Getting used to a drawing tablet is going to take some time and effort, but in the end, it really pays off. Take the time to get used to it and it can be a perfect tool for the artistic belt. Keep reading for some tips to do just that.

1. Practice Makes Perfect

It might sound like a repetitive cliché, but practice really does make perfect. Nobody starts out great at everything, and if using a drawing tablet is a new thing, it might take a while to get used to it. It’s going to feel awkward and uncomfortable until a stride is hit. Just keep practicing and eventually it will become second nature.

2. Get Comfortable

The only thing worse than being uncomfortable when trying to use a drawing tablet is trying to learn how to use one while uncomfortable. It’s already going to be a bit awkward, especially if the tablet is screenless. Therefore, there’s no reason to exacerbate the problem by being uncomfortable at the same time.

Here are some ways to help get comfortable with the tablet:

  • Find a comfortable sitting position
  • Align the tablet with the computer screen
  • Adjust brightness settings if it has a screen
  • Play with the sensitivity settings for the stylus
  • Make sure both the tablet and the computer screen are at comfortable heights
  • Adjust key bindings and other settings to personal taste
  • Wear an artist’s glove or a wrist brace if needed
  • Shift the tablet to match hand movements

Good ergonomics is important with anything. Artists get it pretty bad sitting around and drawing a lot, so don’t neglect personal health just to try out a fancy new art method. Get comfortable and it will make it way less of a pain in more ways than one.

3. Check Out Tutorials

There are two kinds of tutorials that can be looked into when trying to get used to a drawing tablet. One is a dedicated how-to about the tablet itself, and another is to just watch a lot of art tutorials using the same or similar tablet. That knowledge can help make it feel less like a steep climb to get used to the new tablet and more like a gentle slope.

4. Read the User Guide

Most tablets will come with at least a basic user guide. Sometimes it is as simple as pointing out what any buttons are meant for and basic safety measures, while others go pretty in-depth. Taking a quick look at the user guide can make sure that things are properly set up and build familiarity with the tablet which is part of getting used to it in general.

5. Mess Around

There is nothing wrong with popping open a program and just playing when trying to get used to a new drawing tablet. Fiddle around, play, and have fun for a bit before tackling anything serious. Don’t try to make a masterpiece, but instead figure out what happens when that button is pressed or how lines form with different amounts of pressure. Be chaotic and weird. It can always be deleted later.

6. Try Out New Things

Instead of trying to immediately jump into what has already been done, following a style, or using a program already accustomed to, seize the opportunity to try new things now that there is a new tablet to get used to. That kills two birds with one stone while also making it a little less frustrating and awkward when the point is to try out new things.

Here are some ideas on new things to try in tandem with the new drawing tablet:

  • A new art style
  • A new program
  • A different color palette or theme than usual
  • A different genre

Jumping in to using a drawing tablet is already broadening artistic horizons, so might as well double that expansion with some more skills and methods. Plus, then it feels like accomplishing a whole lot when multiple things start getting figured out at once.

7. Try it with Something Else

Just because it is a drawing tablet doesn’t mean it has to be used for only drawing. Most tablets can also be used as an alternative pointer just like a mouse. Using it for things that are not related to drawing at all can help build up the muscle memory and familiarity needed to be more confident in its use.

8. Hybridize for a Bit

Instead of going straight for solid digital art, start out with a sketch or even a full drawing done traditionally. Scan it in and trace over it. The only time that tracing is wrong is when it’s trying to steal someone else’s work or style and attempting to pass it off as entirely original work.

Tracing over original work to clean it up or to digitalize it is a totally normal thing to do and doesn’t make anyone less of an artist for doing it. There’s also no shame in tracing to get the feel of how things work, just don’t violate copyright by tracing everything from someone else and pretending it was all done from scratch.

9. Make it More Tactile

The most awkward jump from traditional art to digital is how much different it feels. While some tablets have a little bit of a feeling to it, there’s nothing truly masking that it’s not a piece of paper. A way to counterbalance this is to literally put paper over the drawing area. It can really help with that missing tactile feeling.

10. Make Sure the Stylus Isn’t Too Big

Some tablets have interchangeable stylus pens that can be used — though often as an optional and additional purchase — and these typically can come in varying widths. Finding one that’s closer to what’s normal to write or draw with can help make it more comfortable to use the tablet overall.

Conclusion

Drawing tablets are a great tool for artists. The problem is that they have a bit of a learning curve and can feel awkward and uncomfortable to use. The good news is that it only takes some time and practice before it becomes second nature. Until then, take some time to enjoy learning a new skill.