Just getting into digital painting... tips appreciated!

[Carey Bowden]

Here are my first attempts at digital painting/coloring. I have a lot to learn, any tips/feedback is greatly appreciated!

I'm especially trying out the "cell shading" look. Am I close?

Llama cell shading

Second llama attempt, variation on above (more "painterly" style)

Dino cell shading shadow practice (NOTE: drawing is not mine, I just did the coloring. Image source)
Do the shadows make sense? Should they be stronger/darker?

And my first attempt at a digital painting haha

Thank you, I really appreciate your feedback!

[Carey Bowden]

Oh, here's the first completely digital piece I've done. (Ignore the background! Haha)

I'm used to a pretty different coloring style, specifically traditional watercolors, and not a lot of strong, sharp shadows. I've been watching a lot of tutorials and working from references, but I just wanted to make sure I'm headed in the right direction!

[jimsz]

What digital device are you using? What software/app?

[Carey Bowden]

@jimsz Hi, thanks for your question! I'm using Photoshop CC 2018 and a first-generation Wacom Bamboo Splash. It's ok, but I'm going to upgrade to a screen tablet in a couple weeks. (I'll probably go with the Huion Kamvas GT-191) I've found the most difficult thing to be inking. If I wasn't able to upgrade so quickly, I'd probably ink traditionally and scan my line art to color in PS.

[Eli]

@carey-bowden Let us know how you like the Huion. I want to get a screen tablet as well but Cintiq is not in the budget, so I am looking for alternatives.