Which software and what tools eg mouse/keypad/etc do graphic designers use for illustrations?
Put all these answers together and you should learn most of what you need. Yes, graphics pads are very useful. I have one myself, but the small Graphire is NOT what the pros use. They spend hundreds more for the larger (9X12) ones. Those that can afford it get the large graphic monitors, were the designers work directly on the screen. Attached to extremely high speed systems, work procedes quickly and smoothely to the final output. But, for a start, the small tablet will be an amazing improvement for you. The way you describe drawing with a mouse has been likened to “drawing with a brick.” I use mine for drawing and for find photo editing and am very happy with it. You can also stick with Fireworks and Freehand for many more years of enjoyment, but, at some point, you may want to convert to the applications the pros use. The tools available, and the throughput to the final output devices are built in to these applications. Do some window shopping, online for programs such as Adobe Phot
