If you are a fan of retro video games, creating your own pixel art might be an exciting challenge. Pixel art, inspired by the 8-bit art style from older games, has become a popular medium for indie game developers and digital artists. Adobe Photoshop, a powerful graphic design tool, can be used to create impressive pixel art for free.
In this article, we will explore the best YouTube video courses for learning Photoshop pixel art, and introduce you to our beginner-friendly course available at the Game Artwork Academy.
Table of contents
What is Pixel Art?
Pixel Art is a digital art form that creates images using small, individual colored squares called pixels. A popular style in the early age of video games, it has since experienced a resurgence in recent times due to the growth of indie game development and a renewed appreciation for its unique charm. Pixel art is characterized by its simplicity, vibrant colors, and focus on detail and aesthetics.
What is Photoshop?
Adobe Photoshop is a powerful digital image editing software that is widely used by designers, artists, photographers, and more. With its extensive range of tools and capabilities, Photoshop allows users to create, enhance, and edit images with great precision and control.
Why Photoshop is a Good Tool for Pixel Art
While there are several tools available for creating pixel art, Photoshop is one of the most versatile and user-friendly options. It boasts features tailored for pixel art creation, such as:
- Customizable workspace with various tools, such as the pencil tool, for precise control over individual pixels.
- Supports creating custom palettes for consistent color use across your pixel art projects.
- Features like layers, transparency, and layer blending modes help in creating complex designs with ease.
- Ability to animate your pixel art using frame animations or video timelines within Photoshop.
What Can You Use Pixel Art For?
Pixel art has various practical applications and can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as:
- Video game design: Create characters, terrain, objects, and animations for 2D games.
- Icon sets and UI elements: Design unique and visually appealing icons for web and mobile applications.
- Illustrations and digital art: Produce eye-catching pixel art illustrations for use in online or print projects.
- Custom emojis and avatars: Craft distinctive pixel art representations for personal or professional use.
Why You Should Be Excited to Learn Pixel Art
Pixel art holds an enduring appeal and offers many benefits, making it an exciting skill to learn:
- Develop a unique and distinguishable skill in the world of digital art and design.
- Explore your creativity with the simple yet powerful tools and techniques offered by pixel art.
- Apply your pixel art knowledge to various applications, such as game design, graphic design, and illustration.
- Enjoy the timeless, nostalgic, and charming aesthetic that pixel art brings to any digital project.
Below, you’ll find a list of the best resources for learning pixel art in Photoshop, sourced from both Zenva and other highly-regarded creators. These tutorials cater to a range of skill levels and cover a wide variety of topics, ensuring there is something for everyone. Happy pixelating!
Zenva YouTube Channel – Game Artwork Academy (Recommended)
Photoshop Pixel Art Tutorial
This tutorial promotes a full course on game art design available on the Zenva Academy website. The course covers creating custom pixel art using Photoshop and other tools. Designed for beginners, it includes topics such as color theory, shading, and animation. Access the course by visiting the official link: Game Artwork Academy.
Beginner Pixel Art Tutorials
Pixel Art Basics in Photoshop
Learn the basics of creating pixel art using Adobe Photoshop. This tutorial guides you through essential pixel art techniques and tools.
Create 8-Bit Avatars
Creating 8-Bit Avatars and Photos in Photoshop CC 2021
Discover how to create pixel art/8-bit avatars and photos using Adobe Photoshop CC 2021 in this tutorial. The tutorial focuses on using the Posterize adjustment to achieve the desired effect.
Intermediate Pixel Art Tutorials
Photoshop CC Pixel Art Tutorial
Explore an intermediate tutorial on creating pixel art in Photoshop CC. Learn how to set up your canvas, use the pencil tool, and create shading and highlights. The author emphasizes the importance of using a limited color palette and paying attention to detail.
Animating Pixel Art
Animating Pixel Art in Photoshop (L.A. Noire Example)
Delve into the world of animating pixel art in Photoshop using the L.A. Noire game for reference. The tutorial provides step-by-step instructions on creating and animating pixel art while maintaining the pixelated look.
Pixel Art from Photos or Shapes
Create Pixel Art from a Photo or Shape in Photoshop
-Learn how to create pixel art from a photo or shape in Photoshop with this simple technique. Follow along using step-by-step instructions and screenshots to guide you through the process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the YouTube courses listed above offer a variety of tutorials for mastering Photoshop pixel art. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, these videos provide valuable tools and techniques to create impressive pixel art.
Additionally, don’t forget to check out our recommended resource, the beginner-friendly Game Artwork Academy course, to enhance your pixel art skills and bring your creations to life.
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