Photoshop II (improving on reality)

Once you have the basics of Photoshop, like getting files in and out of it, and working with layers, you're ready to really make some magic.

 

Our Photoshop 2 workshop picks up where Photoshop-1 leaves off to introduce you to some of the more advanced photo editing concepts:

• Selection tools

Photoshop gives you tools within tools, all with a specific function to perform. We'll show you how to decide which tool to use,  and how to access that tool once you've decided what you want.

• Layer masking

One of the things that makes Photoshop so flexible and powerful is the ability to work in layers. Just as the fine artists of old layered plaster, paint and pigments to achieve the depth and effect they wanted, so can you. But unlike those mediums, Photoshop layers give you fine-tuned control to show or hide anything you want. It this sounds awesome - well, it is. It if sounds confusing, don't worry. After our workshop, you'll have a much better handle on what it all means.

• Using adjustment layers

With adjustment layers, you can alter the tone and color of an image, or even just a portion of the image. Among many other things, adjustment layers make eliminating yellow teeth or bloodshot eyes a snap. And if you overdo it, you can edit adjustment layers without having to start all over again.

• Blending layers

Blending layers gives you the power to precisely control the contrast in specific areas of your photo. We commonly use them to make a subject's eyes connect with the viewer, but that's only the beginning of what you can do.

• Using curves

Curves give you the most precise control over the highlights, shadows, and midtones of an image.

There really is nothing like Photoshop for taking images from pretty good to jaw-droppingly great - if you know what you're doing, and with our help, you will.

 

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