If you’re at the initial stages of your graphic design journey and are wondering which software to learn, the key is to focus on vector and pixel programs that align with your preferences regarding access, price, equipment availability, and quality. Instead of getting bogged down by the choice between Illustrator, Inkscape, Photoshop, or Gimp, prioritize understanding the broader principles of vector and pixel graphics.
In the early stages of graphic design learning, the specific programs you choose are not as critical as grasping the principles underlying graphic design problem-solving. The essential criterion is selecting a program, that makes sense to you and is of professional-grade quality.
Graphic Design Software Landscape
The world of graphic design software encompasses various types and brands, including:
- Vector and pixel graphics software
- 3D animation software
- CAD (Computer Assisted Design) software
- Publication and layout software
- Font creation software
Prominent brands, such as Adobe with Illustrator (vector), Photoshop (pixel), and InDesign (publications and layout), alongside Corel Draw (vector) and Canva (mostly pixel), contribute to the extensive list of both vector and pixel programs.
In essence, there is a diverse array of software available, catering to different design needs.
What does this mean for you?
It implies that all vector and pixel programs exhibit similar behavior. They are constructed on identical basic principles, functions, and operations, a fact applicable to both vector and pixel programs.
Regardless of the brand, these programs function in much the same way, sharing fundamental tools and capabilities. Consequently, if you learn vector skills with a specific program like Illustrator, transitioning to other vector programs such as Corel Draw or Inkscape becomes a seamless process. The learning curve for adapting to alternative software is notably gentle.
It’s All About Macro-Skills
As you contemplate which graphic design program to start learning, delve into understanding vector and pixel graphics on a broader scale. Gaining knowledge about these software types in general will equip you with what I term “macro-skills” in graphic design. These macro-skills enable you to navigate and handle different brands of software.
In the realm of vector graphics, you employ lines and shapes to craft drawings, ranging from digital illustrations and icons to impressive, realistic artwork.
The acquisition of macro-skills in vector graphics encompasses:
- Shape creation and manipulation
- Vectorization of pixel images
- Utilization of typography
- Manipulation of nodes for drawing
- Maintaining geometric balance
- Construction of shapes based on a grid
Vector graphics find extensive applications in crafting logos, icons, various illustrations, and even print graphics like business cards and posters.
Contrastingly, pixel graphics operate differently. Rather than relying on lines, they depend on “dots” or pixels on a screen. A pixel canvas consists of numerous small “squares” filled with color to create a specific drawing. These squares are referred to as pixels.
The photos captured with your phone, for instance, are composed of pixels. Pixel graphics excel in manipulating real-life images, making them suitable for tasks like magazine photo editing.
Macro-skills associated with pixel graphics include
Image clean-up, addressing aspects like red eyes, skin blemishes, contrast, and brightness
- Image manipulation, such as altering hair color
- Image liberation, involving “cutting” the shape of an image (e.g., a person) and placing it in a different
- background
- Working with layers
- Understanding color nuances
- Managing image resolution
Choosing the right software at the beginning is crucial. While the graphic design industry heavily relies on commercial software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, many boutique studios and small design firms increasingly favor free professional-grade alternatives such as Inkscape and Gimp.
As a beginner, possibly on the path to becoming a self-made graphic designer, it´s recommend to start with Inkscape for vector graphics and Gimp for pixel graphics. These programs, despite being free, empower users to create remarkable graphics with professional results that are indistinguishable from those produced by commercial software.
In summary
During the initial stages, it’s more beneficial to direct your learning efforts towards the type of software you’re using, especially vector and pixel programs, rather than fixating on a specific brand. This approach facilitates the acquisition of essential skills for mastering software types, transcending brand-specific considerations.
Remember prioritize learning pixel and vector graphics first, as other software types, including publication, layout, and animation programs, are predominantly a combination of these two standards.
Vector graphics impart fundamental skills in drawing, layout, and shapes, while pixel graphics teach you about manipulating real-life images, retouching, and managing aspects like lighting (brightness and contrast), among many other fundamental skills.