When I do demonstrations at schools, I’m often asked about the software I use to illustrate my books. I use the Adobe suite of programs (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.) but there are many alternatives out there that are much less expensive and do many of the same things. Here are a few you might look into.
iPad and iPhone
If you have an iPad or an iPhone, my favorite drawing app right now is Procreate. In fact, I like it so much I used it to illustrate Do Not Eat the Game!. The iPhone app is only $4.99, and the iPad app is only $9.99. What a deal!
3D Software
For making quick 3D models to help me with my illustrations, I like using Morphi. It’s easy to use, is available for iPads, Mac, and Windows, and can even do VR on an iPhone! Best of all, it’s free for the basic version, and only $10 for the full version.
Mac and Windows
Art Rage is painting software that simulates all sorts of natural media, like paint, chalk and pastels. It is available for almost every platform (Mac, Windows, iOs, and Android) and even has educational pricing. You can find out more here: https://www.artrage.com/buy/
AcornIf you’re using a Mac, Acorn is an inexpensive Photoshop alternative (about $29.00). While it doesn’t have ll of Art Rage’s natural brushes, it’s much more equivalent in power and function to Photoshop and can even import Photoshop files. You can find out more here: http://flyingmeat.com/acorn/
