MagiStream

HI!
I like to consider myself something of a budding artist (lol, fat chance...), and I've seen some of the amazing digital peices you guys make with a tablet. So, I would like some advice on choosing one. I'm interested in something cheap ($100 maximum), without a ton of fancy gadgets, but with enough potential for detail that I could make somthing semi-realistic. I was looking at this model: http://www.google.com/products/catalog? ... os=reviews
Anyone use it?

Also I have another question: in my limited research I have gathered that you have to connect your tablet to a computer for it to work, does that include laptops? And can you do anything besides art on one (trying to convince my dad to buy me one for my BDay).

Thanks for looking

fennelstar wrote:HI!
I like to consider myself something of a budding artist (lol, fat chance...), and I've seen some of the amazing digital peices you guys make with a tablet. So, I would like some advice on choosing one. I'm interested in something cheap ($100 maximum), without a ton of fancy gadgets, but with enough potential for detail that I could make somthing semi-realistic. I was looking at this model: http://www.google.com/products/catalog? ... os=reviews
Anyone use it?

Also I have another question: in my limited research I have gathered that you have to connect your tablet to a computer for it to work, does that include laptops? And can you do anything besides art on one (trying to convince my dad to buy me one for my BDay).

Thanks for looking

First of all, yes, it connects with a usb cable (connected to the tablet.) Also, before you buy a tablet, I suggest sharpening your drawing skills on paper or canvas, ect, before buying. This is used to enhance art skills with color and a little cheating. Plus, using one of these tablets is hard to get used to. A professional took about 6 months to fully control their hand on the tablet. So, I'm saying it's harder to draw on a tablet then on a piece of paper. But, scanning an already drawn picture works well.

Also, if you do not have any art programs, I suggest buying a tablet that includes a program. I bought a wacom bamboo fun - pen and touch over an intuos, because I did not have the software needed. Plus, if you are considering buying photoshop, it's about $600.

Then, consider the tablet as a touch screen that you use with a pen. You can use it for games (e.g. angry birds) or just for clicking. However, this is an electronic made specifically for art purposes. So, since you are a beginner, I suggest getting this: http://www.amazon.com/Wacom-Bamboo-Pen- ... B002OOWC3S
It's what I have. A wacom bamboo fun, pen and touch.
This has a touch setting so you can use your fingers, (like a touch screen). Plus, this comes with Adobe Photoshop Elements (different than Photoshop by just a few things.) That will get you started off on the right direction.

Thanks K4swap! I am not the best artist, but I'm in middleschool and have received alot of praise for my art. Another question/clarification: Can I scan my traditional art onto my computer then tranfer it to the tablet?
Thanks again for your help, (I welcome any advice from an artist like you o.o) I'll ask my dad to look at the tablet you suggested!

Ok, first of all, the tablet itself does not hold any files or pictures, ect. All it is, is a touch screen extension for your computer.

Second of all, I do suggest studying a bit on anatomy, otherwise the tablet will throw you off.

Okay I will! Thanks for warning, I'm looking forward to the challenge! I have much to learn about art, but am feeling a bit stuck in a rut right now, to maybe a new style to learn will help! Thankyou

I may have to disagree a bit with K4Swap.

It was easiest for me to draw on paper, but then I got used to using a tablet, and now it is HARDER for me to draw on paper. xD

I use this:
http://www.amazon.com/Wacom-Bamboo-Capt ... _e_title_0

It is a step up from the one you have in your first post. All that differs is that mine is more expensive, and it supports touch and multitouch (which I keep turned off anyways, seeing as I like to rest my hand on the tablet). It also came with Photoshop Elements 8 and Sketchbook Pro. I prefer to use Paint Tool SAI, however, which is a free program that supports tablets.

I would say deffinately go for a Wacom, though, they are a good brand. (I prefer Bamboos :P )

Good luck!

Thanks for your input
So, the one K4Swap linked to is a 'Pen and Touch', and the one you linked to is a 'Capture Pen and Touch'? Me no good at titles, lol! *face-palm* I think, because of the price, I'll have to go with the first model, and just see how the digital media suits me!

fennelstar wrote:Thanks for your input :)
So, the one K4Swap linked to is a 'Pen and Touch', and the one you linked to is a 'Capture Pen and Touch'? Me no good at titles, lol! *face-palm* I think, because of the price, I'll have to go with the first model, and just see how the digital media suits me!

The one she linked to is an older version of the one that I linked. :>

Yup.....anything else? Other questions, ect?