Expert: Andre Hickman - 10/19/2006

Question
I'm computer saavy but I haven't used photoshop or graphics programs.  I've always focused on business apps, quickbooks, etc. but can get around easily and can learn about anything.  I want to do some graphics such as putting a photo from one person on another body - still and animated.  what program would be best for this?  i'm part of the tech team at my church and I want to be able to do fancy things - what software would be the most basic and easiast to learn that is universal (i.e. how excel is for spreadsheets)

Answer
I say this to all up-and-coming artists....Everything in the design world starts with Photoshop and Illustrator.  Learn those two programs, and you will have the foundation that you need to tackle tougher software solutions.  They are the staple programs for Graphic Design.  You can quickly learn to do that trick in Photoshop with a still image.  Animation is a whole different ballgame, because now you are adding more dimensions--time, and motion...To do it convincingly requires time and software that the average person simply can not afford.  Now if you are only trying to do it convincing enough to get a point across, then learning something like Macromedia Flash, along with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, will take you a long way.  Check out what the guys at JibJab.com are doing, under the "originals" tab on their site.  Hope this information helps. Like any trade, these are only tools.  They can't do the work for you.  It will still take developing an understanding of the tools, and a WHOLE LOT OF CREATIVITY to make it happen!

Cheers,
Andre