Traditional to Digital Process

Joel’s and Jessica’s posts on digital versus traditional mediums inspired me to make my own. It’s definitely a process that has evolved as I’ve work on Under the Apple Tree, starting from almost all traditional to all digital.

The above image is something I put together to show the many different stages I’ve gone through as I’ve experimented with style, color, texture and mediums, spanning almost three years. All of the line work except the very last (and current) version were done traditionally with pencil or ink on paper. I would then scan them in and use Photoshop to insert texture, grays and colors. I never quite got the hang of it, though, and eventually just said “screw it!” and went fully digital.

I’m glad I did, as I commuting to Boston from Maine for work makes for very little time at home with my nice art supplies and scanner. This allowed me to use only my tablet and computer, which I always have with me regardless, to create the comic no matter where I am.

My choice was mainly for convenience, but I found I had a much easier time with color than I did traditionally – there’s much more room (and time) for digital experimentation than traditional.

It’s been neat to see everyone else’s processes and views on digital versus traditional work. PS – Thanks to everyone who has posted, I’m really glad you’re all here!