Introduction to Digital Illustration Using Photoshop

Course Objectives

• Understand the Adobe Photoshop interface and essential tools for digital illustration.
• Use brushes, layers, and selection tools effectively to create digital artwork.
• Apply color theory and blending techniques to enhance illustrations.
• Utilize masks, filters, and effects to add depth and texture.
• Develop sketches and refine them into polished digital illustrations.
• Export digital artwork in various formats suitable for web and print.
• Demonstrate basic workflow and file management best practices in Photoshop.

Schedule

Module 1: Getting Started with Photoshop for Illustration

• Overview of Photoshop interface and workspace customization
• Understanding resolution, canvas size, and color modes
• Setting up brushes and basic tool preferences
• Introduction to layers and layer management
• Hands-on: Create your first simple sketch

Module 2: Mastering Drawing and Painting Tools

• Using brush tools: types, settings, and custom brushes
• Understanding pressure sensitivity and tablet integration
• Working with pencils, pens, and erasers
• Using the smudge and blur tools for blending
• Hands-on: Digital sketch and basic shading practice

Module 3: Working with Layers and Masks

• Layer types: normal, adjustment, fill layers
• Organizing layers with groups and naming conventions
• Using layer masks for non-destructive editing
• Clipping masks and their applications
• Hands-on: Create a layered illustration using masks

Module 4: Colour Theory and Application

• Basics of colour theory for illustration: harmony, contrast, palettes
• Using the colour picker, gradients, and fills
• Applying colour with brushes and gradients
• Creating and using swatches and colour libraries
• Hands-on: Colour a black-and-white illustration

Module 5: Selection Techniques and Image Manipulation

• Selection tools: marquee, lasso, magic wand, quick selection
• Refining selections and edge smoothing
• Using selections for targeted adjustments and transformations
• Transform tools: scale, rotate, warp
• Hands-on: Modify and enhance parts of an illustration

Module 6: Effects, Textures, and Filters

• Applying filters for texture and style
• Using layer styles: shadows, glows, bevels
• Creating texture overlays and brush textures
• Adding lighting and shadow effects
• Hands-on: Add depth and effects to an illustration

Module 7: Workflow and File Management

• Organizing files and saving versions
• Working with smart objects for flexibility
• Exporting files for web, print, and social media
• Preparing files for client delivery or portfolio use
• Hands-on: Export a final illustration in multiple formats

Module 8: Final Project – Complete Digital Illustration

• Planning and sketching a concept
• Building the illustration using all learned techniques
• Refining, adding colour, effects, and final touches
• Presenting and critiquing the final artwork