Do you know that feeling of wanting to give a photo a different style? Well, the other day I was going through my photos and I thought: “How can I turn a photo into a drawing?””
So I went looking for some apps, I tested several (some pretty bad, I admit), but I found 3 that really work and give really good results.
So, if you also enjoy adding a creative touch to your photos, stay here and I'll show you the ones I liked the most.
The idea here is not just to fill you with options, but to tell you what really works and is easy to use, like that conversation between friends.
Oh, and you don't need to be an editing expert, okay? All the apps I tested are very easy to use and work for both Android and iPhone.
ToonMe: the darling of social networks
First of all, the ToonMe It was one of the first ones I tested and I liked it right away.
He became a hit on social media for transforming photos into drawings with that Disney or Pixar animation style, you know?
You just need to choose a selfie (or take one on the spot), and the app does the magic on its own.
In seconds, it delivers several versions of your image: one with more realistic features, another more cartoon-style, another manga-style… it has it all!
What I liked:
- Super easy to use interface;
- Several different style options;
- You can adjust the details (like background, contrast, etc.);
- There are free filters that are really good.
Point of attention: Some more advanced features are paid, but the free version is already a huge help.
Ideal for: who wants to transform selfies into stylish drawings without complications.
PicsArt: Complete editing with drawing effect
Secondly, the PicsArt It's like the Swiss Army knife of editing apps.
It has a bit of everything: collage, filters, texts, frames… and of course, what interests us here: the effect of transforming a photo into a drawing.
To use it is simple: open the photo in the app, go to the tab effects, then click on Artistic or Magician.
There are several filters that make the image look like a drawing, oil painting, doodle… there are countless!
What I liked:
- You can control the intensity of the effect;
- You can mix styles and create something unique;
- The final image quality is great;
- In addition to the drawing effect, the app is a very complete editor.
Point of attention: There are a lot of ads in the free version, but nothing that will get in the way if you have patience.
Ideal for: who wants more control over the final result and enjoys exploring other types of editing besides drawing.
Prisma Photo Editor: High-level art
Finally, the Prism It's more artistic, for those who want to transform the photo into something that looks like it came out of an art gallery.
It uses artificial intelligence to apply styles inspired by great painters, such as Van Gogh, Picasso and Munch.
When I tested it, I was amazed at the result. It really looks like someone painted the image by hand.
And unlike other apps, here the image details are very clear, even with the heavy painting effect.
What I liked:
- Very artistic and beautiful effects;
- Fast processing;
- Ideal for landscape and portrait photos;
- Well organized and intuitive interface.
Point of attention: Most of the top filters are only available in the premium version, but you can still play around a lot with the free ones.
Ideal for: who wants a more artistic effect, like a painting.
Bonus tip: how to make the design your own
One thing I learned while testing these apps is that it’s not enough to just apply the filter and that’s it. You can customize the result even more! Here are some tricks I’ve used that work well:
- Play with contrast and saturation before applying the effect. This helps the filter to better highlight the features of the image;
- Use simple backgrounds so as not to pollute the design;
- Avoid photos that are too dark or too dimly lit, because the app can distort the lines and the result won't be as pretty;
- If you're going to post on Instagram or WhatsApp, you can use the apps themselves to make final adjustments and make the design even cooler.
Which one is more worthwhile?
It depends on the style you want:
- Want something quick, fun and cartoon-style? Go for it! ToonMe;
- Want more options and control? Try the PicsArt;
- Do you like art and want a more professional touch? Then Prism is ideal.
Personally, I've been using ToonMe to make avatars and PicsArt to turn photos of my dog into drawings (it's really cute, seriously).
I use Prisma more when I want to give a more sophisticated look to nature or landscape photos.
So, take advantage and download it right now on your Android or iOS.
If you like the result, post it on social media, tag your friends and maybe even start selling personalized avatars!