Keeping your artwork looking great when moving between different digital art programs can be tricky. You want your hard work to stay sharp and colorful, but each program can treat files differently. Here are some tips I’ve learned that can help you keep your artwork looking its best:
1. Pick the Right File Type
- PNG: This format is great if you need to keep parts of your image clear. It works well with detailed designs.
- TIFF: This is the best choice for high-quality prints. It can keep layers but can create large files.
- PSD: Use this if the next program can open it. It keeps your layers and changes.
- JPEG: Try to avoid this for artwork with lots of details, as it can reduce quality and cause blurry spots.
2. Focus on Resolution
- When saving your image, make sure to use a high resolution. For prints, aim for at least 300 DPI (dots per inch). If you're just showing your art online, 72 DPI is usually fine. However, it’s better to start with a high resolution and lower it if needed—it's safer that way!
3. Check the Size Before Saving
- Pay attention to how big your image is. If you need it to be a certain size for printing, set up your canvas that way from the start. If your original picture is small and you try to make it bigger, it might look blurry and not how you want it.
4. Be Careful with Colors
- Different programs may show colors differently. When switching between software, check your color settings. sRGB is a good choice for web use, while Adobe RGB or CMYK work better for printing. Some programs allow you to change color settings easily, which is great!
5. Export Settings Matter
- When you’re ready to save, look at the options for quality and size. You usually have to choose between how good it looks and how big the file is. If you can, pick the option that keeps quality. Most times, you can preview the image to see if there are any issues before you finish saving.
6. Test Your Process
- Don’t be afraid to do test runs. Save different copies of your work and try out various settings. This way, you can find out what works best for your art style and needs.
In the end, it’s all about balancing quality with what’s practical. The more you experiment, the better you’ll get at it. Just remember to keep your original files safe, and happy creating!