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Learn to draw a stunning map using Photoshop

By Nate 'Vancano' Smith Leave a Comment

Learn to draw a stunning map using Photoshop

Photoshop is a great way to make a map. Sure there is other software available which might be easier to get started with, but there is nothing like using Photoshop.

To help you get started the articles below will teach you step by step how to draw a map in the same style as the one below:

The Land Of Elfcarron

For a quick way to create a map in Photoshop you could use a map generator.

1, How To Generate Random Terrain Using Photoshop

This is the first part of the tutorial and as the name suggests it focuses on a simple technique for randomly generating terrain in Photoshop. If you haven’t drawn the outline of your map by hand or you’d prefer to have a random terrain generated for you then this is a great tutorial to start with.

However, if you have the outline of your map already drawn and in Photoshop then you may want to move onto the 2nd article in this tutorial.

Learn How Randomly Generate Terrain By Clicking Here

2, Adding Texture To The Ocean And Land

Once you have the outline of your map drawn and ready the next step is to texture both the ocean and the land. It’s a simple process that requires a little bit of brush work.

Add Texture To Your Ocean And Land By Clicking Here

3, Drawing The Sea And Coastline For Your Own Map

The sea layer is where you start adding more colour to the map. Up until now your map has consisted of green and white gradients but with the sea and coastline you’ll now add a fresh blue into the mix.

Learn To Draw The Sea And Coastline By Clicking Here

typographyboarder

4, Finishing Your Map Off With Typography And A Border

Finally no map is complete without the names of regions, cities and locations for your heroes to adventure in and your baddies to scheme over. By following this final part in the series you’ll learn the exact settings to use for the typography on your map. I’ll also teach you an effective way to add a border around the map.

Finish Your Map Off By Clicking Here

Filed Under: Fantasy map Tagged With: maps

About Nate 'Vancano' Smith

Nathan is the founder of the Worldbuilding School. It's his goal to make worldbuilding easier for the 1000's of people who build their own world - whether it's for fun or profit. He's also works as a content strategist and can help you build an audience for your stories.

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About Nate Smith

Nate is the founder of the Worldbuilding School. It's his goal to make worldbuilding easier for the many people who build their own imaginary world - whether it's for fun or profit. As part of this goal he uses his skills in Cartography to draw maps. Read More…

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