This video finishes off where the previous one left off, in my argument for painting on a short (or flat) layer stack. In this installment, I explore the refinement process. Refinement can be challenging for beginners, since the next step, fix, or manipulation, is not always obvious. To guide the refinement process, this video focuses on edges: the intersection of two different areas of value.
The video also mentions the new series "Edge Control", which is now available in the Ctrl+Paint store.
Much of Ctrl+Paint is dedicated to strictly digital workflows, and they usually rely heavily on layer use. With layers comes complexity, and with complexity comes interruption. Sometimes it's nice to take a break from this mindset and simplify. This video is the first half of a two part argument for painting 'flat'. You might not permanently change your workflow, but it's worth dabbling. What study will you try?
Having trouble drawing long, sweeping, line-work? Curves are a huge challenge to draw with the brush tool in Photoshop, especially if you don't have access to a Cintiq. Instead of using tools like French Curves or ellipse templates, "Lazy Nezumi" empowers Windows users to make beautiful line-work. This application modifies the path of your cursor, smoothing out jitters and hitches in your stroke. It's not a magic bullet, and isn't appropriate for all situations- but it's certainly worth the $30 price tag. If nothing else, make sure to give the free trial a spin.
To Mac users: is there a Mac equivalent of this software? Let us know in the comments. Thanks!
The brush tool is your digital painting workhorse. Since it'll be active for the vast majority of your time painting, it's worth knowing all of the 'secret' hotkeys. My very favorite is 'brush diameter', though this video also shows how to modify hardness and opacity. Best of all, these hotkeys are stylus-centric, allowing you to make quick, accurate adjustments.
One of the hardest shapes to draw accurately is an ellipse. When accuracy is extremely important, traditional artists might use plastic ellipse templates to help with their drafting. Photoshop offers a variety of alternatives, but my favorite is the 'shape tool' - which is showcased in this video.
Changing the color of your brush tool is a fundamental skill for digital painting. In this video we'll explore some alternative methods to the basic 'Color Picker' menu, and how they might streamline your workflow.
