The Mortiferus Islands

[Will]

Greetings!

Long time forum lurker here, but first time poster. I've learned so much from all of you here at the Cartographer's Guild, and I'm hugely indebted to you all for the community and open exchange of ideas. Thanks very much.

And with all of that said, I'm a little nervous to post at all. But, I'm serious about continuing to develop my nascent mapping skills, so I offer you this, for your review and critique: my most recent map, generated entirely in Photoshop using a mouse and keyboard, in approximately 6 hours or so. Thanks in advance for any suggestions or comments you may have! Happy mapping!

Will

[mearrin69]

Wow. Welcome and have some rep from me for posting such a beautifully done map on your first go...the fact that you did it without a tablet makes it even more impressive. I can't say I'd change much of anything about it...though I would love to see a version with blue water. You know, of course, that the landforms are "unlikely" but that doesn't change the fact that it's a great map.
M

[Coyotemax]

that's pretty funky, it's crying out for a pirate campaign!

I love the way you did your forests, very painted look to them, and they fit in well.
Oh, and what fonts are those! they really work well for the feel!

the only comment I would make towards improvement would be the lines out the in the water along the shorelines. I recognize the technique you're using, and after the first 2 or 3 rings they end up looking very straight in sections. There's been a few discussions on how to address that issue (ripple filters, smoothing the selection at each level, stroking instead of selections, etc). Of course, If you're happy with them being that way, then cool

I don't get why people are so hesitant with posting their first maps.. for many of us, it's one of the best decisions we've made!

[torstan]

Now there's a map with a lot of character! I like it a lot - and love the subdued colour scheme. Great work and welcome!

[Diamond]

I don't get why people are so hesitant with posting their first maps.. for many of us, it's one of the best decisions we've made!

Exactly! I mean, look at this one. It's awesome.

[Will]

Oh, and what fonts are those! they really work well for the feel!

The main font is Treasure Map Dead Hand, and the title font is Jellyka, Saint-Andrews Queen. Fun, and free.

the only comment I would make towards improvement would be the lines out the in the water along the shorelines. I recognize the technique you're using, and after the first 2 or 3 rings they end up looking very straight in sections. There's been a few discussions on how to address that issue (ripple filters, smoothing the selection at each level, stroking instead of selections, etc). Of course, If you're happy with them being that way, then cool

Do you have a link handy to this discussion, because the lines do get a tad geometrical for my taste... I'd be much obliged.

[Coyotemax]

Do you have a link handy to this discussion, because the lines do get a tad geometrical for my taste... I'd be much obliged.

Ascensions antique tutorial contains the bulk of the discussion but I know it's cropped in up occasional WIP threads here and there. Here's the link to the thread, starting with the relevant post where people start coming up with ideas to try
http://www.cartographersguild.com/sh...ll=1#post42474

The following thread is my own contribution towards finding a workable method.
http://www.cartographersguild.com/sh...n-antique-maps

I don't recall specific locations for the other discussions as yet, but I will keep an eye out for them and compile some results as I notice them

[Will]

Thank you kindly.

[AutumnRain]

Love it! The color is really nice. I agree that blue water would really make it pop. (I hate coloring water myself though ;P) Though, geographically it's not entirely possible - it's not impossible either.

[arsheesh]

Welcome long-time-lurker, that's a great first map you got there. Welcome to the guild, and next time show us a WIP so that you can get feedback (like what Coyotemax just offered) before you're map is done; it will really help to polish your map. Great job though.

Cheers,

-Arsheesh