As a digital artist on a budget, I can’t always afford Adobe Creative Cloud. Here are the top 5 software that every artist needs. All of the recommendations are based on my personal experience with the software.
Inkscape
The best part about Inkscape is it is free. It is an open source software that is regularly updated. If you use Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape is a free alternative especially if you work with vector images.
Pros: Free, Beginner friendly
What can it do?
- Illustrations
- Icons
- Logos
- Diagrams
- Maps
- Web graphics
Cons: Some employers require Adobe Illustrator
DaVinci Resolve
If you create video content, this is a free option. Whilst Adobe Premiere is the go to software for most, this is a great replacement! Currently, I am editing videos for a Twitch Streamer that cross posts on YouTube. I was frustrated at first, but after a few days it got easier and easier to use.
Pros: Free or Paid, Multiple interface layout options, so you can transition from Adobe Premiere , lots of features for video editing and effects
What can it do?
- Edit
- Color correct
- Apply visual effects
- Mix audio
Cons: It has a steep learning curve, not recommended for beginners
Krita
This is a digital artist must have! It has all of the tools to create everything from comics to vTuber models. I am in the process of creating the parts for a vTube model. It is a good alternative for Photoshop in this regard.
Pros: Free or the paid option if you purchase from Steam, the paid option updates quicker than the free, it is user friendly
What can it do?
- Illustrations
- Paintings
- Comics
- Animations
Cons: There isn’t a mobile friendly version
Sketchbook
I use this software for most of my art projects. I recommend the paid version, so you can access all the features. No matter the project, all of my sketches and early versions of completed pieces are done in Sketchbook.
Pros: Mobile app and desktop app, exports to tiff, PSD, PNG, JPG, PDF, Great for all skill levels
What can it do?
- Sketching
- Painting
- Illustration
Cons: There is no cloud storage, so to use it on multiple devices you need to transfer the files.
Canva
Last, but not least, Canva will rock your world! Canva Pro has more useful features, but the free version is robust. I create book trailers, social media posts and Twitch trailers. With the new AI tools available, you can blend images together, creating mirroring effects etc. If you are tired of Photoshop, Canva is stepping up as a formidable opponent.
Pros: You can create anything with it!
What can it do?
- Icons
- Logos
- Document designs
- Short videos
- Audio additions
- Presentations
- Color correcting
And more!
Cons: It doesn’t work like Photoshop, so depending on the project you cannot use it as a substitute.
Overall, these software options help me as an artist on a budget and I hope you like them too!
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