Learning

So just what do I need to know?

by jason gallagher

If you are new to computer graphics and are trying to decipher the role of each software — and therefore deciding which programs you need for your projects — you'll first want to understand some terms. Specifically, bitmap vs. vector vs. page layout. A bitmap graphic is a graphic made up of a map of pixels. The more pixels there are, the more detail is available. Almost always, files taken from a digital camera or a scanner are bitmap. Bitmap is a good format for photography and artwork with complicated texture or lots of detail. The main drawback of bitmap graphics, is that you can't scale an image larger than the size it was captured without loosing quality.

Continue Reading

Classes, workshops or tutoring? HELP!

by jason gallagher

There are many ways you can choose to learn. Classes, workshops, private training, books, tutorials, video training, etc. The best thing about private training, is that the lessons will be customized exactly to your needs. While certain fundamentals are important, we can prioritize your interests if you wish, and we will go at a pace that is comfortable for you.

Private lessons are also a great way to go when time is an issue. They are comparable or less expensive in price to workshops and let you cover a lot more ground in a much shorter time than you could by taking courses at a design school or community college. If you prefer a very predetermined way of learning, workshops can be good. But again, workshops are expensive and aren't tailored to your needs. You also end up having to take many different courses (like Photoshop I, II and III, Dreamweaver I, II and III, etc.). In private lessons since everything is allowed to overlap...this can end up saving substantial time.

Continue Reading