[whine mode = on]

I'm really struggling to create good web graphics.

My main problem is accuracy. I'm a longtime AutoCAD user. I'm used to creating circles, lines, arcs and other type of geometry which can be created accurately very, VERY easily. For example, if I want one circle centered in another, no problem. Just snap to center and its all good. Equally spaced objects? no problem, use array. Want something moved X amount? piece of cake.

But Photoshop....GRRRRrrrr, it seems so archaic. I'm sure that someones going to say "your comparing apples to oranges" but when something very simple becomes hard, it can be frustrating.

Any advice?

[whine mode = off]

I have found that most anything that can be accomplished in any other graphics package can be accomplished in PhotoShop it just needs to be approached from a different angle. That said, I believe PhotoShop has one of the highest learning curves ever imaginable. So, the trick is to take about a year just learning everything you can. At the end of that year of tutorials and lots of reading I think you may sing a far different tune about PhotoShop.

I find fireworks is a lot easier to use. I tied photoshop a while back and just couldn't get my head round it, so I stuck with fireworks.

Yep, I loved how AutoCAD could make many things very easily. Once you get good, you could draw things in a snap.

But, Photoshop can be very daunting if you try to tackle everything at once. Start small. I don't think any graphic programs have the same snapping abilites as AutoCAD does.

But, if you really wanted too, you could draw an outline in AC, then copy it into photoshop to finish it.

I already know the main tools of Photoshop BUT is PSP easier? Software is a tool so if there is a better one, i'll use it.

Would vector apps like Illustrator be better suited for me?

PSP is easier and the latest version comes pretty close to PS.

Cptn,

What makes it easier? How are the vector tools compared to Photoshop?

Thanks.

I think it's easier to use because of the way it's laid out. The interface is a little more intuitive. As far as the vector tools I think they are much easier than PS simply because in PSP I know when I'm working with a vector and when I'm editing just the vector.

i use a combo of photoshop and illustrator. cant have one without the other if you want to make quality images.

Im a photoshop man here also :d

I started out using photoshop to digitally edit cars and then progressed onto web graphics. Obviously its down to personal preferance but I'd try and stick with it. Use tutorialize.com for pretty good tutorials and you will learn different techniques.

With regards to your question, try using the various lasso tools - you can specify the size of them. Also by holding down shift you can add to your selected area - when you are finished you can fill in the shape with the paint tool. Using this technique I can create almost any shape.

Good luck!