Working Digitally

Cartooning is an ideal pursuit for anyone with a computer and drawing tablet, or at least pens, paper and scanner. These days, to my mind, working digitally in some respect, isn't just important, it's pretty much essential. Many people who commission cartoons, do so by email, and they expect the finished work to be sent to them the same way.

I use a laptop and graphics tablet combined, but for those who prefer to draw on paper, then having a scanner will be a requirement for turning those drawings into digital files.

I'll describe the equipment I use, and the ways I work, in more detail on the "Getting Started" page of this website.

Working From Home

One huge advantage of utilising computer technology, together with the internet, is that it makes cartooning a viable pursuit for those who wish to work from home. It's a profession ideal for anyone who for one reason or other may be housebound, and who has a natural talent for illustration and humour.

Taken to its extreme, with a laptop and graphics tablet, wireless internet connection, and online banking, one could even operate a totally viable business, without leaving the comfort of one's bed - not that that's a way of working I'd particularly recommend!

Working Away

Of course, I work from home myself, being based on a small island off the west coast of Scotland. It was the ability of working with computers and the internet which enabled me to make that move.

The freedom that computer and internet working allows, means that it's just as easy to continue with operating a cartoon business, while on the move. I often have reason to travel abroad. My laptop and drawing tablet pack neatly into my hand luggage, and this allows me to continue working for my clients, and picking up new business and enquiries, whilst away. Location makes absolutely no difference to the running of your business!