Graphic Design Software

[ODBAL]

Does anyone know of a free graphic design software package I could download?  I would like to play around making some logo's for some local archery interests but paint just doesn't seem to cut it!

[Fulmar]

Gimp is the only free software I know of.  The vast majority of the GD field uses Adobe products.  You can try their 30-day free trials, though they are very expensive for someone not in the field.

[Mustaine]

gimp

[weazely]

GIMP is the best thing you are going to get for free.

[ODBAL]

Thanks guys, Gimp it shall be.

[Scotch]

As a graphic designer I spent years with adobe products...I haven't really touched any of it in a couple of years though. How does GIMP compare?

[weazely]

For being a free program it is very good.  I had the CS3 trial and there were obviously things in CS4 that GIMP did not have...  But finished product wise very hard to notice one program over an other.

[Scotch]

It's an open source project?
That usually allows for an insane amount of expansion.
That's awesome.

[weazely]

Very true!  Although I haven't had any real "trying" with photoshop yet (next year in school) I do find GIMP more user friendly for the every day photo manipulation

[Scotch]

Yeah, those six hour digital illustration classes let you get real familiar with the program... 
It's still an exciting field but I'm definitely glad to be working out doors!

[Kazaa]

You have to try Paint Shop Pro Photo X2, it's a very powerful bit of kit and you can get 30 days free trial.
 
http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite/gb/en/Product/1184951547051#versionTabview=tab0&tabview=tab0

In a few days I managed to make these logos from start to finish.



Trust me, you will love it and it's cheap to buy!

I hope this helps,

Kaz, <S>

[Fulmar]

Yeah, those six hour digital illustration classes let you get real familiar with the program... 
It's still an exciting field but I'm definitely glad to be working out doors!

If you can find a job.  The graphic design field has a major glut.  Too many designers, not enough jobs.

[Scotch]

Definitely. I wasn't referring to that aspect at all, but most of my friends who are still in the industry are feeling it for sure. We all went in around the 98-01 boom. But now...not to say the fishing industry is much better.  But if you're passionate at something and willing to work hard, you can still make something for yourself. So I don't want to discourage him from pursuing his interests. 

[ODBAL]

You have to try Paint Shop Pro Photo X2, it's a very powerful bit of kit and you can get 30 days free trial.
 
http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite/gb/en/Product/1184951547051#versionTabview=tab0&tabview=tab0

In a few days I managed to make these logos from start to finish.

(Image removed from quote.)

Trust me, you will love it and it's cheap to buy!

I hope this helps,

Yes, thank you.  I tried to DL Gimp but I couldnt get it even run on my system?  And, I want to design some logo's and edit some existing ones rather than work with photo's.  Thanks!

Kaz, <S>

[Mustaine]

check out this link:

http://www.smashingapps.com/2009/02/18/11-free-and-useful-open-source-alternatives-for-designers.html



most if not all free alternatives to Adobe products.