Computer graphics should look better. Most computer drawings simply do not possess the same clarity or artistry of hand-drawn graphics.


We can draw better on the computer. In this book, we learn how. First, we will address and dismiss some common myths and misconceptions about drawing on the computer. Then we will look at some examples of what computer plan graphics can, and should, look like. Next we will learn the principles, strategies, and techniques for drawing well on the computer--skills that you can apply to any computer graphics software on the market. And finally, we will look at some practical, explicit, step-by-step drawing examples using the most familiar and popular graphics software today, Adobe Photoshop.


This eBook is derived from the book "Drawing Plan Graphics on the Computer" by C. Carlyle Rood, recipient of the Award of Excellence by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA-Georgia Chapter) in 2010. The original book is available by print-on-demand at www.DrawingPlanGraphics.com.


Because the original book has hundreds of illustrations and screenshots, it was impractical to publish it as one volume of an eBook. Either the quality of the graphics had to be compromised, or the number of images had to be reduced. Instead, the author elected to divide the original book into three volumes. This allowed him to optimize the illustrations for an electronic format, as well as include all original graphics.


The ordering of the step-by-step examples follows the sequence in the original book. Volume 1 provides the foundation for the instruction and includes all the principles, strategies, and techniques taught in the original book. Volumes 2 and 3 demonstrate step-by-step examples of drawing plan graphics using the principles, strategies, and techniques taught in Volume 1. All the examples in Volumes 2 and 3 are demonstrated using Adobe Photoshop. Volume 2 includes examples of functional graphics (circulation, focal point, prevailing winds, views, etc.) and master plan graphics of trees (deciduous, coniferous, palm, mass, etc.). Volume 3 includes examples of master plan graphics of shrubs, pools (reflecting, swimming), fountains, inverted shadows, and hatches (including turf, brick, concrete, flagstone, crushed rock, etc.).


The instruction is inherently illustrative. The eBook is only recommended for devices that support color and can display graphics at least 600 pixels in width.