WAHM Forums

I'm curious.

I've always wondered what type of programs do web designers use?
Aside from programs like frontpage and dreamweaver, are there programs that designers use?

For example, for making banners, graphics etc. how in the world do they make the graphics? I can't imagine how these programs work. Do the programs themselves already come with graphics that they just insert (like word comes with clipart) but MUCH better graphics I assume...or do designers actually DRAW OUT the pictures...so does that mean that they have to know how to draw on paper?
I know I must sound like an idiot!!
But I'm really curious!!!

LOL...not an idiot, just curious :)


I use Photoshop for any type of image enhanced graphics or screenprint design, Illustrator for logo and illustrative design or offset printing design, GoLive & Photoshop for web design, Acrobat for form creation, and the like.


Some designers are not comfortable with Illustrator (which creates vector and outlined images - this prevents from loss of quality when scaling an image), so they will use Photoshop to design logos. I don't recommend this at all unless you are creating the client's work in a very high resolution. I think it is a pain in the butt and takes much longer to create logos and illustrations this way.


Professional designers like to steer clear from premade templates or templates that come with the software program. They are overly used and take away from individuality of branding your client's company / organization. Most of them are sub-standard anyhow.


If I am creating something that needs the use of photos, either my client will supply them for me, I an amateur photographer, so I will take shoots for the client if the means are available, or I will tack on the royalty fees for usage of stock photos online.


The software I use is a package suite from Adobe, however there are loads of professional and beginner designing software out there on the market.


If you ever think of getting 'into the business', throw me a PM with any questions or advice. I have been harped on when helping others saying 'that is your competition', but ya know what? To each his own :)


Thanks for inquiring!


LindaEdited by: ktmkgraphics

Adobe Photoshop andIllustratoris the "standard" for any professional designer.


If you want to do graphics for a hobby or starting out,Paint Shop Pro is an excellent program for graphics with an MUCH more affordable price tag.


Professional designers like to steer clear from premade templates or templates that come with the software program. They are overly used and take away from individuality of branding your client's company / organization. Most of them are sub-standard anyhow.


I absolutely agree.

I use Photoshop CS2 and ImageReady for ad banners and graphic work. They are quite good, but can be scary for the new starter.


Professional designers like to steer clear from premade templates or templates that come with the software program. They are overly used and take away from individuality of branding your client's company / organization.


I agree... and premade templates can be overused. Most companies want a unique, original look or design.

I use Adobe photoshop, I'm quite happy with it, although when i started using it at first, i gave up using it for a few days because i found it so complicated, but i started practicing and i am quite good now.


I made the banner for my site here (http://www.webtechdublin.com)

I use photoshop and image ready for all my graphics work. All the graphics you see on my site was created with photoshop and image ready.