What did you learn?
In this project, I learned various techniques for creating an illustrated portrait using both Illustrator and Photoshop. I learned how to use some new tools in Photoshop like the mixer brush and smudge tool, how to create custom brushes, how to use a Wacom tablet and pen for more precision, and how to convert a physical tracing on paper into vectors in Illustrator.
What was easy?
Using brushes and the polygonal lasso tool/connect-the-dots method in Photoshop came more easily to me.
What was challenging?
The drawing method in Photoshop was challenging, especially trying to do it at home with a mouse; it likely would have been easier with a Wacom tablet. I also found working with the advanced settings in image trace in Illustrator to be more difficult.
How could your submission be improved?
I might improve my submission by playing around some more with the colors. I ended up staying pretty close to the colors of the original image, but I could have made more adjustments to come up with something more unique.
How could the professor improve the assignment for the next class?
The professor might improve the assignment for the next class by giving more attention to how to find and integrate a style, historical, period, or famous illustrator into the process. This was emphasized in the Project 1 instructions but not as much in class.
How might you apply your knowledge in future assignments or work scenarios?
For future assignments or work scenarios, I now know several techniques for converting a photograph into a unique illustration without needing any sort of exceptional drawing skills.
How did a specific reading or video inspire or help you?
I really liked the more cartoony styles we looked at from Inkwell Studios, so I decided to work with the connect-the-dots approach rather than creating something more painterly with brushes.