Manga Studio 5 is a program distributed by Smith Micro that is available in 2 versions, Regular and EX. (Apparently, Manga Studio was also available under the name of Clip Studio Paint Pro (Manga Studio) and Clip Studio Paint EX (Manga Studio EX).) Manga Studio 5 Beginner’s Guide was written by Michael Rhodes and he does an excellent job of explaining the ins and outs of Manga Studio. The book was published by Packt Publishing which provides a webpage for the book on their site:
The book follows using the Manga Studio (Clip Studio Paint Pro) version, though it does contain one chapter about the extra capabilities available in the EX version. Now that you are thoroughly confused let me say that I was able to use the book with the Smith Micro trial download which provides you with both versions of Manga Studio. I also used Manga Studio 4 EX with this book, and while the interfaces are different which may lead to some menu-hunting for commands, you can still learn a lot from this book regarding that version of the software.
I am a big fan of the Manga style of comics; but I am also an awful artist. I was hoping that this program might dig up some hidden talent. Unfortunately, the answer is no. Both the book and the program expect you to be able to draw. The book does an excellent job of bringing artists up to speed on Manga Studio 5. Manga Studio 5 is very customizable and this beginner’s guide explains how to create various unique brushes and page styles.
The book mentions a colored-pdf supplement that provides colored pictures of the books graphics. I was able to download this earlier; but it doesn’t seem to be available now, which is a shame since it really helped me with understanding the book. The book also mentions that support files are available; but I was never able to find them.
If you are interested in drawing Manga and want to learn how to use Manga Studio 5 then Manga Studio 5 Beginner’s Guide by Michael Rhodes is a great starting point.
