Shutterstock Photographer Forum :: View topic

adamh · Posted: Mon Dec 10, 2007 1:00 am

In the near future I am looking at investing in a wacom tablet for my illustration work.

I was wondering if people could give me an idea of what would be suited and how much money I'd be looking at.

I also would like to know, how they handle in adobe illustrator.

Cheers
-Adam

terifrancis · Joined: 09 Nov 2006 Posts: 184 Location: New Jersey, USA

Hi Adam ... I use a small wacom graphire (4x6) tablet, which runs about $60-70 in the US. Most people prefer the larger sizes ... I think it also comes in a middle size, probably 8x10, and the largest one I've seen is 9x12 ... the price goes up the larger the size. I have limited desk space and do most of my drawings for cards and brochures, so the little one works out well for me. It takes a little getting used to at first, but once you start using it, I'm sure you'll love it.

Also, some wacom tablets have more advanced features that work well with AI, but hopefully some of the more experienced/advanced users will reply and can give you more info in that regard. Hope this helps ... you've been doing wonderful drawings as it is. Did you do those in your portfolio with a mouse?!? Good luck in getting a tablet that works well for you ... I'll be eager to see what you do it!

illyguy · Joined: 17 Aug 2007 Posts: 121 Location: Colorado

I use a 4x6 tablet as well. It has been a great tool. It works good in Illustrator and Photoshop. It does take a bit getting used to. I got it 3 years ago for right around $100 USD. I think prices have come down a bit.

hkuchera · Joined: 19 Jul 2005 Posts: 1257 Location: Minnesota

I use a 9x12 - for everything! From Photoshop to Illustrator to Internet browsing to gaming. (In fact, I'm using it right now - as I type I have the stylus is tucked into my hand just like you would hold a pencil.)

I think what size you get is primarily dependent on how much desk real estate you have to give over to a tablet, and how much movement you have when you draw. (Big sweeping movements = bigger tablet is better. Little precise movements = smaller tablet is fine.)

I started out with a 4x5 and have recently considered putting it back into use as a tablet to hook up to a laptop when traveling. But, I have to make sure it's still compatible - it's quite old, so all bets are off!

All the vectors in my gallery were done using Illustrator and my 9x12. My style isn't very complex, but maybe you can get an idea of what you can do.

adamh · Posted: Wed Dec 12, 2007 9:15 pm

Thanks guys,

I've decided to get a Wacom Bamboo Fun 6x9
I was able to snag it for $200 australian, which is a damn good price.

Basically it's take over the Grapphire series and the specs have gotten a bit better.

terifrancis> Yeah all my stuff has been done with mouse, thankyou for your compliments. I look forward to using it and gaining more of a style when I get the tablet in.

A.

mlopes · Joined: 31 Dec 2005 Posts: 362 Location: Lisbon

screenfx · Joined: 30 Mar 2005 Posts: 171 Location: Colorado

I prefer the smaller sizes also. I don't like making large sweeping motions with my hands when I draw. I guess it depends on you drawing style. My one regret in purchasing the cheaper 4x6 is that there is only one set of buttons on the left side of the tablet. I was forced to disable them because I am left handed and as I draw my left hand is constantly touching them. It makes me feel a little cheated that I don't get to use them.

Best of luck
Bill

hkuchera · Joined: 19 Jul 2005 Posts: 1257 Location: Minnesota

natse · Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2007 2:44 pm

Thanks for the insight!