SketchBook Pro
Focusing on sketching and drawing, this program encourages creativity through simplicity of use
You’re not overwhelmed when you launch SketchBook Pro for the first time…
SketchBook Pro is here to make you draw. Where other programs offer tools to design, to build architectural blocks, or to use photos as your starting point, Autodesk’s 2D software is only interested in providing you with a digital canvas and 100-plus customisable brushes to start drawing with.
Straight from the off, it’s made to make this goal as easy as possible. “I have plenty of experience with most leading artistic programs,” says Paris Christou, “but the number one reason I chose Sketchbook Pro over the rest is for its userfriendly, fresh, modern environment. You’re not overwhelmed when you first launch the software, unlike most painting applications.”
SketchBook Pro’s best attributes are its ‘straight to the point’ access to any tool or action to speed up your workflow. Tools are accessed using a circular toolbar on the canvas, or lagoon, which you can fill with your most frequently used tools.
The program is pretty generous with its file support and compatibility for importing and exporting images, which includes PSD files. And although SketchBook Pro is all about the drawing, you still have the ability to build up a drawing in layers and use perspective guides. There’s a fair bit to sink your teeth into, but once you’ve played around with it, the learning curve will be quickly mastered.
“When I first started exploring Sketchbook Pro, what shocked me the most was how I quickly adapted to the software,” says Paris. “Sketchbook Pro also pushes an artist to solve problems practically instead of relying on software tricks to do the work for you.”