Idiot Proof Graphic Design Software

CKG · #1 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 10:59

Although i'm very happy with the work my graphic designer does for me I think there are some tasks that I could (and would like to) tackle myself.

What kind of software package would you recommend for an occasional user - i.e something that doesn't cost a fortune to buy or doesn't need a degree in rocket science to draw a circle with.

KreativeJuice · #2 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 11:21

Hi CKG

It depends what you have in mind, different packages for tasks.....

Kind regards

Karen

Gareth PC · #3 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 11:22

Problem with this software that costs an arm and a leg - it's good

There isn't a lot of cheap software out there that can really compete with the quality of the "good stuff". Which is why the "good stuff" market is very small and very expensive

The best that comes to mind is Gimp, and truth be told it can do a lot of things that I do with my nice expensive software - yet it's free.

http://www.gimp.org/

What I suggest is to grab yourself a copy of Gimp, google up a few tutorials and have fun

. There are a lot of tasks that don't you need an art degree to pull off

CKG · #4 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 11:31

I need it to design advert layouts, direct mail stuff, special offers and the odd flyer or poster.

And get it into a print ready format.

I'll have a look at that gimp thing.

KreativeJuice · #5 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 13:06

Photoshop would be the ideal package in that case, expensive but you can get hold of a cheaper version (photoshop elements) not sure what the limitations are to that though...

CKG · #6 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 13:11

Thanks.

I'll check it out.

RayB · #7 (**permalink**) 18-04-2008, 14:07

Corel Draw and Paint Shop Pro are worth a look - good value for money and less daunting to learn than Adode CS IMO

CKG · #8 (**permalink**) 21-04-2008, 19:47

Well i've checked out that GIMP thing and it seems pretty good.

Just need to spend a few years learning how to use it...

I'd happily select my path tool and snap my grid if I knew what it meant.

I take my hat off to you design people....

PointandStare · #9 (**permalink**) 21-04-2008, 22:46

You could have the latest Photoshop with a thousand plug-ins but if you haven't the skill or the talent to use it then it's wasted.

Calibre Designs · #10 (**permalink**) 21-04-2008, 23:14

Quote:

Originally Posted by CKG

I take my hat off to you design people....

Its easy when you know how

Thing is, learning how to use software is like learning how to use any other piece of kit. When it comes to designing, its having the creative thoughts behind the job that is the difficult part.

Kay