How to Use The Gradient Palette in Adobe Illustrator

Adding depth and dimensions to an image can be a hallmark of a highly skilled graphic artist. Logos, designs and images can be graphically enhanced by adding gradient features. Gradient features can adjust colors to gradually change to enhance an image. Adobe Illustrator is a tool used by graphic artists to add digital artistic elements to objects and offers a gradient tool to help make images "pop". The key to effective gradient use is to make subtle adjustments that enhance an image and are not the primary focal feature.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha3DRkW1zFo Learn how to improve your images through this graphic design tutorial on how to use the gradient palette in Adobe Illustrator.

How to Use The Gradient Palette in Adobe Illustrator Video

Learn how to use the gradient palette in Adobe Illustrator from award-winning graphic artist Janee Meadows from Los Angeles. She presents a step-by-step guide to applying gradient effects to an image and offers professional advice on how to avoid applying too much gradient. This graphic design tutorial is offered as part of a series of Adobe Illustrator tips on the Mahalo.com YouTube channel.

Step 1: Open an Image

Import an image into Adobe Illustrator that you want to modify. This image can be created in another program, uploaded from your own drawings or obtained from an image bank. You can select a black and white image or a color image.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha3DRkW1zFo

Step 2: Select and Modify Image

Click on your image to activate it and then make any desired modifications such as adding color, brush effects or other Illustrator tools.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha3DRkW1zFo

Step 3: Apply Gradient Tool

With your image selected, open the gradient tool. Click on "Window", then select "Gradient". The Gradient tool will appear. Select the type of gradient you want to apply. You can use a radial or linear gradient. A radial gradient produces a sunburst-type of effect, while a linear gradient offers a more line-based change of colors. You can enhance the gradient by increasing or decreasing the gradient percentage or angel. Place the desired percentage in the second box on the gradient tool. Experiment with gradient options and apply them to different portions of your image until the desired effect is achieved.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha3DRkW1zFo