Since you're reading this, I'll assume that you like art, or have been linked here from somewhere. Thanks for coming.

Anyway, if you're thinking of going digital, you should think about getting the proper tools. That doesn't just include a pen tablet, or a touch-screen laptop.

What I'm talking about are "Digital Art Programs".

You may have heard of artists using programs like "Adobe Photoshop" and "Corel Painter". I use Photoshop, but that may not be the best way.

Short of using Microsoft Paint, which is best for pixel-artists, you should look into Google Gimp.

Free, easy-to-use, similar to Photoshop, this is the best way to start off with digital painting/drawing.

Now, after getting used to drawing with Gimp, which should tide you over for a while, you have to decide if you want to invest in Photoshop or Corel Painter. Some tablets, like the Wacom Graphire series and the Wacom Intuous series, may include a seperate CD that includes basic versions of Photoshop or Corel Painter. This may be a great way to get a taste of the programs before actually getting the full version.

Hope this helps new artists hoping to enter digital painting/drawing.

-Wesley J.