15 Best Tools for Creating Graphics for Affiliates

In Affiliate marketing, though profoundly driven by products and partnerships, is immensely fortified by visuals. Staying abreast with design trends, understanding one's audience, and being in a constant learning mode aren't just strategies—they are imperatives.

Below are some of the top design tools affiliate marketers can use to create visual content:

Best Vector Graphics Tools

1. Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator is a premier vector graphics software developed by Adobe Systems. Designed for creating illustrations, logos, icons, and a multitude of graphic designs, its capabilities include:

• Artboards: Multiple workspaces within one Illustrator file, allowing for varied design sizes and mediums.

• Pen Tool: Precision drawing and outlining for custom shapes.

• Type Tools: Extensive typography controls and font integration.

• Gradient and Color Tools: Advanced color manipulation features for gradients and solid fills.

• Brush Libraries: Custom brushes for unique strokes and design elements.

Pricing and plans

As of the last update, Adobe Illustrator is available through the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription service. There are various plans:

• Individuals: Monthly or yearly subscription options.

• Students and Teachers: Discounted rates for educational purposes.

• Businesses: Special plans tailored for enterprises and large teams.

Always refer to the official Adobe website for the most recent pricing details.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Branding: Create custom logos and branding materials to maintain consistency across different platforms.

• Ad Creation: Design unique and scalable ads for various sizes and platforms without losing quality.

• Merchandise Design: For those looking to diversify income, Adobe Illustrator can be used for creating merchandise designs.

• Infographics: Break down complex data into visually appealing infographics to engage audiences.

To fully harness the capabilities of Adobe Illustrator, consider taking online tutorials or courses. Platforms like Udemy or Coursera offer beginner courses on Illustrator.

2. CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW is a vector graphics editor developed by Corel Corporation. It offers a suite of tools suitable for various design tasks:

• LiveSketch Tool: Allows free-form sketching using an AI-based prediction model.

• Node Editing: Enhanced editing options for precision in designs.

• Vector and Bitmap Tracing: Convert bitmap images to vectors with ease.

• Web Graphics Tools: Specific tools tailored for web designs.

Pricing and plans

CorelDRAW offers a few pricing models:

• One-Time Purchase: Unlike many software providers, CorelDRAW still offers a one-time purchase option.

• Subscription: Monthly or yearly options.

• Enterprise License: Tailored solutions for businesses.

Always check Corel's official site for the most accurate and updated pricing.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Template Library: Access to a vast array of templates suitable for a range of marketing needs.

• Easy Adaptation: Designs can easily be adapted for multiple platforms, from social media to blog banners.

• Efficient Workflow: With integrated tools and functionalities, affiliate marketers can achieve faster design turnarounds.

Leverage the template library in CorelDRAW as a beginner. It's an excellent way to understand design structures while creating quality content.

3. Inkscape

Inkscape is an open-source vector graphics editor. While it may not have the commercial clout of Adobe or Corel, its features are robust:

• Drawing Tools: Tools like Bezier curves, freehand lines, and quick shapes.

• Text Tool: Full control over text, with kerning, letter spacing, and line height adjustments.

• Object Manipulation: Features for grouping, layering, and aligning objects.

Pricing (Open-source)

Inkscape is available free of charge, being an open-source software. However, donations to support its development are always welcomed by the community.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Cost-effective: Ideal for those starting and needing a robust design tool without the financial commitment.

• Extensions and Add-ons: As open-source software, developers from around the world create extensions that can be integrated into Inkscape.

• Active Community: Troubleshooting and learning are made more accessible with a large community of users and contributors.

Being open-source, Inkscape has numerous tutorials created by its community. Utilize platforms like YouTube for free beginner tutorials.

Vector graphics tools play an essential role in affiliate marketing. Choosing the right tool depends on your budget, requirements, and preferred functionalities.

Starting with Inkscape can be budget-friendly, but as your needs grow, you might consider investing in commercial tools like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW for enhanced features and capabilities.

Best Raster Graphics Tools

Raster graphics, unlike vector graphics, are composed of pixels. Each pixel holds a specific value representing its color, and when millions of such pixels are combined, they form an image that can be viewed on electronic displays. Raster graphics tools are designed to manipulate these pixel-based images. Below is a detailed look into three primary raster graphics tools suitable for affiliate marketers.

1. Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop, a product by Adobe Systems, stands as the industry standard for raster graphics editing. It’s a versatile tool, equipped to handle not only photo editing but also complex digital artistry:

• Layer-Based Editing: Allows for non-destructive changes by stacking edits in separate layers.

• Retouching Tools: Tools such as clone stamp, healing brush, and patch tools to fix imperfections in photos.

• Color Correction: Advanced color manipulation tools to adjust the color balance, vibrancy, and tonality of images.

• Text and 3D Effects: Integration of text, shapes, and even 3D elements into graphics.

Pricing and plans

Adobe Photoshop is accessible via the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription service:

• Individuals: Available with options for monthly or yearly subscriptions.

• Students and Teachers: Special discounted rates for educational uses.

• Businesses: Plans designed for larger teams or corporate use.

For the most recent pricing specifics, refer to Adobe’s official website.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• High-Quality Ad Creation: Tailor-make banners, ads, or promotional images with high resolution.

• Photo Enhancement: Perfect product photos to make them more appealing.

• Template Availability: Utilize available templates for social media posts, blog headers, and more.

Starting with Adobe Photoshop can be overwhelming due to its vast features. Beginners should focus on mastering basic tools first, using resources like Adobe's official tutorials.

2. GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

GIMP is a free, open-source raster graphics editor. While sometimes seen as an alternative to Adobe Photoshop, it offers an array of tools for graphic design:

• Customizable Interface: Users can modify the view and behavior to individual preferences.

• Photo Enhancement: Techniques to correct photo imperfections.

• Digital Retouching: Remove unneeded details or add new ones using clone tools.

• Hardware Support: GIMP offers high-quality pressure and tilt sensitivity for graphic tablets.

Pricing (Open-source)

Being open-source software, GIMP is available for free. Nonetheless, supporting the community through donations can ensure its continued development.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Cost-Effective: A robust editing tool without any financial investment.

• Flexible and Modifiable: With its open-source nature, users can add or develop plugins tailored to specific needs.

• Cross-Platform: Available for Linux, Windows, and macOS, ensuring compatibility.

For those transitioning from Photoshop, explore the option to customize GIMP's interface to resemble Adobe’s layout. It might help ease the learning curve.

3. Pixelmator

Pixelmator is a raster graphics editor specifically designed for macOS. It offers:

• Layer Styles: Quick customization using shadows, gradients, and more.

• Retouching Tools: Advanced tools for enhancing and correcting photos.

• Drawing Tools: Full suite of vector drawing tools integrated within the raster editor.

Pricing and plans

Pixelmator is priced as a one-time purchase, available on the Mac App Store. However, there's also Pixelmator Pro, with extended features, priced separately.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Integration with macOS: Seamless workflow on Apple devices.

• Quick Edits: Streamlined tools for fast and efficient edits.

• Affordable: One-time payment structure without recurring subscription fees.

Pixelmator provides an array of online tutorials. Beginners should start with these to quickly adapt to the software.

The choice of raster graphics tool hinges on individual needs, budget, and platform preferences.

For those on a tight budget, GIMP offers a formidable array of features without any financial outlay.

Meanwhile, those accustomed to the macOS ecosystem might find Pixelmator an intuitive choice.

For professionals seeking the industry standard with extensive functionalities, Adobe Photoshop remains unmatched.

Regardless of choice, invest time in learning the chosen software's intricacies to harness its full potential in affiliate marketing.

Best Online Graphics and Design Tools

In the digital age, online graphics and design tools have revolutionized content creation, making it accessible and straightforward for users of all skill levels.

This section delves into three of the most prominent online tools – Canva, Crello, and Snappa – each with its unique offerings suitable for affiliate marketers.

1. Canva

Canva is an online design platform that offers a user-friendly interface paired with a vast library of templates, graphics, fonts, and more. Some salient features include:

• Templates: Ranging from social media posts to presentations and everything in between.

• Drag-and-Drop Editor: Simplifying design by allowing users to drag elements and place them effortlessly.

• Photo Editing: Basic tools to adjust brightness, contrast, and more.

• Collaboration: Features to work on designs with a team or get feedback.

Pricing and plans

Canva provides a freemium model:

• Free: Access to a significant number of templates and design elements.

• Pro: Monthly or yearly subscription with access to premium templates, stock photos, and advanced tools.

• Enterprise: Designed for larger teams, providing brand control and collaborative features.

For accurate pricing, always check Canva's official site.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Versatility: Create a variety of marketing materials from a single platform.

• Speed: Templates make ad or post creation quick and consistent.

• Brand Kit: In the Pro version, maintain brand consistency using the brand kit feature.

As a beginner, leverage Canva’s design school – a repository of tutorials and design courses to enhance your skills.

2. Crello

Crello is an online visual content creation tool, similar to Canva but with its unique touch. Its features encompass:

• Animated Designs: A standout feature allowing users to create animated posts and ads.

• Design Wizard: Simplifies the design process with step-by-step guidance.

• Templates: Over 20,000 templates catering to various needs.

• Customizable Objects: Adjust shape, size, and color of design elements with ease.

Pricing and plans

Crello operates on a tiered model:

• Free: Limited access to design elements and templates.

• Pro: Monthly or yearly subscription offering premium features and assets.

The Crello website remains the best source for the most current pricing information.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Animated Content Creation: Make visually engaging ads or social media posts.

• Adaptability: Resize designs for various platforms in just a click.

• HD Downloads: Ensure the highest quality for print materials.

Experiment with Crello's animated posts to boost engagement on platforms that support animated content.

3. Snappa

Snappa is a straightforward online design tool, focusing on swift creation without compromising quality. Features include:

• Pre-set Sizes: For various platforms, ensuring optimal viewing experiences.

• Graphics Library: Access to a plethora of graphics and free stock photos.

• Fonts and Effects: Customize text and add effects to enhance visuals.

Pricing and plans

Snappa offers:

• Free: Restricted number of downloads per month and access to a limited graphics library.

• Pro: Monthly or yearly subscription with unlimited downloads and enhanced features.

Check Snappa's official site for up-to-date pricing details.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Time-saving: Rapid design creation for swift campaigns.

• Buffer Integration: Directly schedule and share graphics on social media.

• High-resolution Downloads: Suitable for both digital and print.

Use Snappa's Buffer integration for efficient content planning and posting on social platforms.

Online graphics and design tools have democratized design, allowing affiliate marketers, irrespective of their design proficiency, to produce compelling visuals.

For rapid design needs, Snappa stands out.

If versatility is sought, Canva is a strong contender, while Crello's animated designs can elevate content to the next level.

The key is to identify which tool aligns best with your marketing goals and invest time to explore its full potential.

Best Infographics Creation Tools

Infographics act as a bridge, transforming complex data into visually appealing, easily digestible formats.

For affiliate marketers, infographics can enhance content quality, boost engagement, and clarify intricate information.

This section illuminates three principal tools that can aid beginners in the realm of infographics: Piktochart, Venngage, and Infogram.

1. Piktochart

Piktochart is an online tool dedicated to creating engaging infographics, presentations, and printables. Key features include:

• Templates: A plethora of professionally designed templates catering to diverse needs.

• Drag-and-Drop Editor: Simplifies the design process, eliminating the need for prior design experience.

• Interactive Elements: Capability to add videos, maps, and charts to infographics.

• Hi-res Export: Allows for downloads in high resolution for crisp prints.

Pricing and plans

Piktochart employs a tiered pricing model:

• Free: Access to basic templates with Piktochart watermark on the outputs.

• Pro: Monthly or yearly subscription provides enhanced features, premium templates, and watermark-free exports.

• Team: Facilitates collaboration between multiple users with shared templates and assets.

Always refer to Piktochart’s official website for the latest pricing specifics.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Engagement Boost: Infographics are shared on social media 3x more than other content types, amplifying reach.

• Clarity: Complex data or processes can be visualized for better audience comprehension.

• Branding: Custom templates can reinforce brand consistency and recognition.

Regularly update and repurpose infographics to ensure they remain relevant and enhance SEO efforts.

2. Venngage

Venngage is a comprehensive infographic maker with a strong emphasis on customization. Noteworthy features comprise:

• Wide Template Library: Ranges from infographics to reports, social media content, and more.

• Customizable Icons: Thousands of icons, customizable in terms of color and size.

• Interactive Charts: Transform dull data into interactive, vibrant charts.

• Branding Kit: Define and save brand colors, logos, and fonts for consistent design.

Pricing and plans

Venngage offers:

• Free: Basic access with watermarked exports.

• Premium: Monthly or yearly subscription grants access to premium designs and features.

• Business: Advanced features tailored for business needs, including team collaboration.

For precise pricing, Venngage’s official site should be consulted.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Diverse Content Types: Beyond infographics, create a range of visual content for promotions.

• User Engagement: Interactive charts and icons can drive more engagement.

• Brand Consistency: Using the branding kit ensures uniformity across all visual assets.

Embed infographics directly into blog posts to increase dwell time, which can positively influence search engine rankings.

3. Infogram

Infogram focuses on creating infographics and data visualizations with precision. Essential features are:

• Data Import: Directly import data from Excel, Google Sheets, or CSV.

• Interactive Visuals: Create responsive and interactive charts, maps, and graphs.

• Real-time Collaboration: Multiple users can co-edit a single project.

• Embeddable Widgets: Embed live-updating visuals onto websites or blogs.

Pricing and plans

Infogram’s pricing structure involves:

• Basic (Free): Limited templates and charts with Infogram watermark.

• Pro: Advanced customization options and increased project limit.

• Business and Team: Enhanced collaboration tools, premium templates, and more.

For the most current pricing, always check Infogram’s official webpage.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Data-Driven Content: Showcase data in a visually compelling manner to establish credibility.

• Website Integration: Embeddable widgets can keep website content fresh and engaging.

• Content Sharing: Direct sharing to social platforms can expand reach.

For data-driven campaigns, leverage Infogram's direct data import feature to ensure accuracy and save time.

While text-driven content remains crucial, visual representation in the form of infographics can be a game-changer for affiliate marketers.

Tools like Piktochart, Venngage, and Infogram, each with their strengths, can empower marketers to distill complicated data into engaging visuals.

For those new to the domain, starting with predefined templates can be a stepping stone, gradually leading to more custom creations as familiarity grows.

Best Mobile Graphic Design Apps

In the modern age, where digital prowess is at one's fingertips, mobile applications have reshaped graphic design.

For affiliate marketers, this translates into the ability to create captivating visuals on-the-go. This section presents an in-depth dive into three pivotal mobile graphic design apps: Adobe Spark Post, Over, and Procreate.

1. Adobe Spark Post

Adobe Spark Post offers a streamlined design interface tailored for rapid content creation on mobile devices. Its chief features encompass:

• Templates: Diverse design templates adaptable to different platforms and purposes.

• Magic Layout: Automatically resizes and reformats designs to fit any medium.

• Color Picker: Ensures cohesive color schemes in designs.

• Customizable Typography: Curated font pairings and unique design effects for text.

Pricing and plans

Adobe Spark Post is available in a free version, with certain limitations.

For expanded access and premium features, there's a subscription-based model tied to the broader Adobe Spark suite.

As always, consult the official Adobe Spark website for precise, updated pricing details.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Speedy Content Creation: Enables quick promotional graphics for flash sales or time-sensitive offers.

• Platform Consistency: Effortlessly resizes graphics for various platforms, ensuring a uniform brand image.

• Customizability: Even with templates, personal brand elements can be easily integrated.

Utilize the color picker to maintain brand consistency across all visuals.

2. Over

Over is tailored for marketers and businesses, aimed at crafting visual content swiftly and professionally. Notable features include:

• Layered Editing: Multi-layer editing akin to advanced desktop programs.

• Graphic Assets: Library of fonts, graphics, and templates.

• Video Editing: Tools for basic video editing and overlay graphics.

• Collaboration: Shared project folders for team-based edits.

Pricing and plans

Over operates on a freemium model, granting users basic access at no cost.

For premium assets and features, a subscription plan, "Over Pro," is available either monthly or yearly.

Visit Over's official site for current pricing specifics.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Integrated Marketing Suite: Combines photo, graphic, and video editing in one app.

• Collaboration on the Go: Manage team-based projects even while mobile.

• Asset Diversity: Use tailored graphics for diverse affiliate products or campaigns.

Use layered editing to compartmentalize design elements, allowing for easier adjustments and iterations.

3. Procreate

Procreate is largely recognized for its digital painting prowess. Designed for artists, its features incorporate:

• Brush Library: Extensive array of brushes, each with customization options.

• Time-lapse Replay: Records drawing sessions for playback.

• Advanced Layering System: Supports up to 250 layers, dependent on the device.

• QuickShape: Converts rough sketches into geometric shapes seamlessly.

Pricing and plans

Procreate is a one-time purchase app, available on the App Store for iOS devices.

The pricing is upfront without recurring subscriptions.

It's always advisable to check the App Store for the most recent pricing.

Benefits for affiliate marketers

• Unique Visuals: Craft one-of-a-kind graphics, setting apart affiliate campaigns.

• Engagement Booster: Time-lapse replays can be used as engaging content, showcasing the creation process.

• Adaptable Skillset: While designed for artists, marketers can utilize basic features for standout graphics.

Even if unfamiliar with digital painting, leveraging Procreate's QuickShape and basic brushes can add a personal touch to graphics.

Mobile graphic design apps usher in a realm of possibilities for affiliate marketers, bridging the gap between mobility and professionalism.

Adobe Spark Post, Over, and Procreate each cater to varied needs, yet collectively, they underline the shift towards mobile-centric design capabilities.

For those embarking on their affiliate marketing journey, leveraging these tools can be a strategic move, allowing for on-the-fly content creation and distinct visual branding.

Importance of Visuals in Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing, at its core, is about promoting products or services to potential customers, and compelling visuals are paramount in this endeavor. Here's why:

• Human Brain Processes Visuals Faster: The human brain processes visual information 60,000 times faster than text.

  This means that when users come across visual content, they understand and retain the message quicker than they would with text alone.

• Attention-Grabbing: A high-quality visual immediately grabs the viewer's attention. Considering the vast amount of content on the web, a striking visual can make your affiliate content stand out.

• Evoke Emotional Responses: Visual content can evoke powerful emotional responses, leading to a more profound connection with the viewer. Such emotions play a critical role in purchasing decisions.

• Enhance Product Understanding: For affiliate marketers promoting tangible products, visuals offer a clear picture of what the customer is purchasing.

  For example, if you're promoting a fashion accessory, detailed images can highlight the product's quality and style, giving potential buyers a better understanding of its value.

• Build Trust: Clear, high-quality images can build trust.

A grainy, low-quality image can make a product look cheap or unreliable, whereas a sharp, well-lit photograph can have the opposite effect.

Always ensure your visuals are clear, relevant, and of the highest quality. If possible, use original visuals or source high-quality stock images that resonate with your target audience.

How High-quality Graphics boost Conversion Rates

High-quality graphics aren't just about aesthetics; they can significantly boost conversion rates. Here's how:

• Increase Engagement: Websites with rich visuals have a lower bounce rate and more extended engagement times. For instance, a study by Skyword found that articles containing relevant images enjoyed 94% more views than those without.

• Optimized Call-to-Action (CTA): A well-designed CTA button can guide users towards the desired action, be it signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase.

  Color, size, and positioning all play a role in making a CTA effective.

• Reduced Friction in Buyer's Journey: High-quality graphics can break down complex information into digestible chunks, aiding potential buyers in understanding the product's benefits.

  Infographics, for example, can succinctly convey a product's features and benefits, leading to quicker decision-making.

• Social Media Shares: Visual content is shared more frequently on social media platforms. A BuzzSumo analysis found that articles with an image once every 75-100 words received double the social media shares than articles with fewer images.

Conduct A/B tests with different graphics to determine which visuals resonate most with your audience. Monitor metrics like click-through rate (CTR) and time on page to gauge the effectiveness of your visuals.

Visuals play an indispensable role in affiliate marketing. By integrating high-quality graphics into your strategy, you not only make your content more engaging but also increase the chances of converting a casual browser into a committed buyer.

Final Thoughts

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital marketing, particularly affiliate marketing, visual content remains a cornerstone. But creating compelling visuals isn't a one-time mastery. It's an ongoing journey, riddled with the need for adaptability, audience understanding, and continuous skill refinement.

Graphic design tools, be it Adobe Photoshop or Canva, regularly update with new features as well.

For an affiliate marketer, not updating skills alongside can mean missing out on powerful functionalities that can streamline the design process or enhance visual appeal.

Allocate a "learning day" each month. On this day, explore new features of your favored design tool or learn a new tool altogether. Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, or even YouTube can be goldmines of information.

Continuous training ensures that one doesn't get left behind in the competitive affiliate marketing space. With a plethora of online courses and tutorials available, dedicating a small fraction of time each month to learn can yield long-term benefits.