Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Art Tips For Programmers?

Posted by timothy on from the everything-must-have-a-drop-shadow dept.

An anonymous reader writes "Recently I've found myself in a bit of a bind with artwork. My programming contracts have been rather small, barely enough to pay myself let alone an artist. The art needs aren't intensive, mostly icons or sprites depending on the project. Despite owning a few key apps (Photoshop, LightWave, Maya) my art production output is rather poor. Are there any other developers who have learned to be self-sufficient? Are there any resources available to educate me on the finer points of making graphics that look professional?" One resource for the less-artistic among us is the collection of free SVG clip art at freedesktop.org, though it won't give advice for creating new art. What are some others?

2 of 565 comments (clear)

  1. one place to look by Chip7 · · Score: 5, Informative

    On place to look for art and helpfull artists is Deviantart

    --
    -- If you actually say LOL instead of laughing, maybe it's time to go outside! --
  2. Some survival tips from a fellow non-expert. by adolfojp · · Score: 5, Informative
    These are some of the things that I've learned from my mistakes and from experience. I was in your situation about two years ago. Enjoy!
    • 1. Stock photos. A good picture is worth a 1000 design elements. Start scavenging for stock photos NOW. A good place to start is here: http://sxc.hu/.
    • 2. Avoid excessive effects and filters when not needed. Nothing ruins a good design like trying to emboss everything or making it 3D.
    • 3. Keep it clean and simple. Think Apple.
    • 4. Learn from the experts. Visit places like http://www.deviantart.com/ You can even post designs and get peer reviews. Also, http://http//www.alistapart.com will help.
    • 5. Use and abuse CSS. The separation of design elements from everything else will help immensely. You will be amazed by this site: http://www.csszengarden.com/ Change the themes and be amazed by the power of CSS!!!
    • 6. Buy graphic design books, preferably those with collections of commercial art made by different designers. Get inspired ;-)
    • 7. Get a digital camera and take lots and lots of pictures of the world around you. Current examples of designs and logos and ads will help.
    I hope that helps!

    Cheers,
    Adolfo