[Angelic Devil]

Okay, gomen. This has probably been asked a million times, but I didn't find any answers that were of great use. I was just wondering the technique that some of you use to make your pictures look so realistic in Painter. Also, I have Paintshop so if there is anything in there that could give the same effect, I'd appreciate the feedback. Adios Cowboys.

[Mykoz]

i want to know too... i have photoshop and a "graphique pallete" (the pen on my computer but i don't know how you say that...) but i don t know very well how to use it for color... if you know some tutorials or tips... tell me

[kana]

the program doesn't matter. there's no "maek 1337 p1ct4rr 4 m3 kthx"-button in any program. you just need to know how to paint. beginning the learning of said skill would be off to a good start if you just browsed this forum and maybe did a few searches.

[worm]

learn how to paint with traditional paints for a couple years.. (its not that bad! ) then you could apply it to Painter or photoshop...

there are no shortcuts..

[V Shane]

I agree, there are no short cuts. I painted in traditional "glaze style" oils for 12 years then went digital (not planned that way of course). the process I use is just the same as the traditional.

Shane

[B3AND1P]

don't listen to these guys, they're lying! They're just trying to make sure the secret doesn't get out. You just need to turn "Cool" on, all the best artists have been doing it for years! I think its ctrl-c on windows and command-c on a mac. Bam, instant cool.

[Torstein Nordstrand]

It's true there's no easy way, and the tools/brushes/image resolution really isn't what you need to concern yourself about. I guess what you guys are asking for are some pointers to help you get started with you experimentation? Well, I have no real professional experience to share, cause I'm just learning like everybody else, but here's a little starter:

Step 1: First make a rough sketch, any tool, just some outlines of things you like. Then fill in the major areas with colours you want, and then look at the picture to see if the colours look good or not. Tweak colours and forms a little, and then start painting some details like arms, hands, clothes. Spend at least a couple of hours on this step. That's one common way (of many) to perform step one.

Step 2: Post the image you have produced thus far in the "Works in Progress" section of this forum, telling us what you like/dislike, what you're proud of and what you're sure doesn't work. Give me your own view.

Step 3: Work on another picture while you wait for a reply or two.

Step 4: Consider the replies, and ask for details if you don't understand. Then rearrange the picture and post an update. Repeat this step until you feel you can't do more about it.

Step 5: Post the image in the Gallery/Finished Work section, and ask nicely what people think you should focus on too improve.

Step 6: Check back later, and ask for details if necessary.

Step 7: Go to Step 1

Anybody think I missed a spot?

Thanks,

[B3AND1P]

That sounds like good advise. Just remeber everyone here critiques on their own spare time, and no one deserves a critique more than anoyone else. so don't get angry if it takes a while for people to respond, or if no one responds at all! Remeber this art is made to satisfy something within yourself, not other people. SO if you don't get much of a response just say ohh-well and keep on truckin. It takes a lifetime to really become the artist you want to be, so take your time.

[Angelic Devil]

Thanks, guys. ^^
I can CG well, but I CG in the soft shading style. I wanted to expand my horizons and begin more realistic types of CG'ing. Thanks a lot though. ^^

[Torstein Nordstrand]

B3AND1P: You're right, one just has to keep on no matter what. The finish line is right in front of your coffin.

There seems to be almost too many posters who want a reply. I just want to add that I think it's okay to *bump* your own thread if you haven't received a reply, and you're off the first page. Don't be shy about it

[Angelic Devil]

*blinks*
I'm getting a feeling that some immature person on this board rated me as a 1. I haven't even posted my pictures yet. I know who it is...
it's probably that Indian_Prophet, guy. *sighs*
In any case.
What about bumping topics up?
I'm really confused... ^^