Any digital marketer worth their salt knows that images play a crucial role in marketing. And if you’re looking for new ways to make a mark on your audience, you’ve probably explored the possibility of illustrations.
But can one draw illustrations without much experience in graphic design? The answer is yes, thanks to versatile tools available online.
Why are illustrations better for marketing?
But first, why should we even consider making an effort to draw illustration assets when there are other easier avenues to take? For instance, almost everyone uses stock images and illustrations these days. Why not do the same?
The answer is actually in the question – everyone is doing it. That means using the same stock images would make you look like everyone else. As a result, you can weaken the very brand identity that you worked so hard to develop.
Brain Rules data tells us that when people receive info paired with a relevant image, they can retain 65 percent of the info after three days. This only goes to show how vital images are in marketing. In short – if you want images that paint your brand in a unique way, making it yourself can be the best option.
The good news is, there are many ways to gain access to illustrations these days. For instance, there are free online graphic design courses you can take if you have the time. You can also find a graphic designer online if you have the resources to hire one.
How to draw an illustration using an online tool
If you want to learn how to draw illustration yourself, you’d be happy to know that it doesn’t take a lot to get started. Here are a few practical tips as you try to draw illustrations online through the tool of your choice.
1. Explore the features of the app
Though most illustration and graphic design apps offer similar features, there can be variations and slight differences. That said, it’s best to explore the features of the app first before starting your project. By knowing how to operate the app, you can work faster and plan the project better. For this article, Fix the Photo’s online editor.
2. Start with simple shapes
You don’t have to aim for complex designs right away, especially if you’re still starting out. Just as any fundamental art class would tell you, you have to start with lines and shapes. For example, the goal is to make a burger, so I started with ellipticals, rectangles, and asterisks.
I then snipped some parts of the shapes to “sculpt” them into the objects I wanted them to be. For instance, I sliced off the bottom part of the oblong to make the top bun. For the bottom bun, I slashed off the domes to make it appear flatter.
3. Piece the shapes together to create objects
Piece together all the parts, and there you have it: your very own custom illustration! For this design, I just added a dark background that complements the pastel colors of the burgers. I also ensured that there was a good amount of contrast between the background and the text color to make the text stand out.
The lowdown
Online tools these days allow just about anyone to draw illustration images on their own. In the end, it’s all about being open to trying another approach to marketing. Not only will custom illustrations allow you to broaden your skills, but they will also offer exponential possibilities for your brand.
