Tips and Tricks

[Astral Echo]

What is this thread all about?

Introduction

If you want to find out how to use programmes such as Adobe Photoshop or Paintshop Pro than you have come to the right place. This post can tell you all you need to about the two programmes and can help you make amazing artistic designs of your own. I have put together for you some of the best advice from some of the best artists across the net. So sti down make yourself comfortable and enjoy the ride. You might just learn something too.

Advice From

Forever Yours ~ Charmed: Reset Reality
Eylwyen ~ Charmed Cafe

[Astral Echo]

So you want to make banners and fanart?

What program should I use?

Adobe Photoshop
Probably the best program is Adobe Photoshop. I've never used it because it can be expensive. But plenty of people here are using it. Programs can range in $300-$400 range. If you've got the money and are serious then go this route.

Paint Shop Pro (PSP)
The next best program is Paint Shop Pro (PSP). This is what I use. I am currently using PSP8 but have tried PSP9 and there are very few differences. So I can help with both.

PSP is not quite as powerful as Adobe Photoshop but it is still quite a capable program and probably more user-friendly to newcomers. Their programs typically range from $100-$170. (Don't quote me on prices! )

Jasc is the producer of PSP and there is usually a free trial of the latest PSP available for download at www.jasc.com. You get the full program for 30-60 days which is plenty enough time to decide if you like it.

Others
There are plenty of other imaging programs available. You may have had one come with your computer or scanner or camera.

By Ehlwyn

[Astral Echo]

How do I get started?

Creating any artwork in PSP 9

>> means choose/click

Open program
>>File
>>New
Type in desired width and height. For a banner here it is 500 x 150. Wall papers are typically 800x600 and 1024x768.

Now you can copy and paste photos into the blank canvas.
Copy photo
Right click into the canvas.
>> Paste
>>Paste as New Layer (This creates layers within the canvas that will remain separate to work with as far as moving and adding effects.)

To work with a layer it must be selected first. To switch between different layers you use the Layer Palette which should be located on the bottom right. Just click on the layer you want to work with. There's a lot more that can be done with layers such as renaming them, changing transparency, blending level, and linking them. You don't have to know all that to do your first wallpaper but all those tools are located in the Layer Palette.

To do different effects and coloring, select either Effects or Adjust from the main toolbar. Really all you can do is just play around till you find something you like.

I hope that gets you started! I remember being completely overwhelmed when I first opened the program.

By Ehlwyn

[Tim]

Thanks for the tips