Graphic art software

A screenshot of the GIMP 2.2.8 raster graphic software.

Karbon14

vector graphic software running on an AegeanLinux desktop.

Graphic art software

access graphic files. Art software uses either raster or vector

graphic reading and editing methods to create, edit, and view art.

Many artists and other creative professionals today use personal computers rather than traditional media. Using graphic art software may be more efficient than rendering using

hand–eye coordination, requiring less mental imaging skill, and utilizing the computer's quicker (sometimes more accurate) automated rendering

functions to create images. However, advanced level computer styles, effects and editing methods may require a steeper learning curve of computer technical skills than what was required to learn traditional hand rendering and mental imaging skills. The potential of the software to enhance or hinder creativity may depend on the intuitiveness of the interface.

Specialized software

Most art software includes common functions, creation tools, editing tools, filters, and automated rendering modes. Many, however, are designed to enhance a specialized skill or technique. Specialized software packages may be discontinued for various reasons such as lack of appreciation for the result, lack of expertise and training for the product, or simply not worth the time and money investment, but most likely due to obsolescence compared to newer methods or integration as a feature of newer more complete software packages.

Graphic design software

Graphic design professionals favor general image editing software and page layout software commonly referred to as desktop publishing software. Graphic designers that are also image developers or multimedia developers may use a combination of page layout software with the following:

Multimedia development software

Multimedia development professionals favor software with audio,

games

.

Stylized image development software

Image development professionals may use general graphic editors or may prefer more specialized software for rending or capturing images with style. Although images can be created from scratch with most art software, specialized software applications or advanced features of generalized applications are used for more accurate visual effects. These visual effects include:

Traditional medium effects

Vector editors are ideal for solid crisp lines seen in line art, poster, woodcut ink effects, and mosaic effects.

Some generalized image editors, such as

Photo-Paint

were originally designed for rendering with digital painting effects and continue to evolve with more emphasis on hand-rendering styles that don't appear computer generated.

Photorealistic effects

Unlike traditional medium effects,

texture maps

on 3D Models.

Hyperrealistic effects

Specialized software may be used to combine traditional medium effects and photorealistic effects. 3-D modeling software may be exclusively for, include features for, or include the option of 3rd party plugins for rendering 3-D models with 2-D effects (e.g.

laws of physics

.

Technical graphic software

Technical professionals and technical illustrators may use technical graphic software that might allow for stylized effects with more emphasis on clarity and accuracy and little or no emphasis on creative expression and aesthetics. For this reason, the results are seldom referred to as "art." For designing or technical illustration of synthetic physical objects, the software is usually referred to as CAD or CADD,

information graphics. Specialized software for concept maps

may be used for both technical purposes and non-technical conceptualizing, which may or may not be considered technical illustration.

Education Side Of Graphic Software

Ellen Mazur Thomson's exploration of technology's influence on design education in "The Literature of Graphic Design" aligns with the broader context of graphic software design. The discussion about technology's impact on design education directly correlates with the use and integration of graphic software in teaching design principles.

The insights from Thomson's book highlight how technology, specifically graphic design software, plays a pivotal role in modern design education. This software is often discussed in the context of graphic art and design and forms the practical foundation of many design courses. Thomson's exploration likely emphasizes how graphic software tools empower students to create, experiment, and visualize their design ideas in a digital format. It ties into the discussion by showcasing how these software applications are not just tools for creating art but essential components in the education and practice of modern graphic design. Understanding technology's role in design education, as discussed in the book, provides valuable context to appreciate the significance and integration of graphic software design in teaching and learning graphic design principles and techniques.