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Creatives know that learning Photoshop is the best way to take their portfolio to the next level. Still, it’s a massive program with tons of functions and plenty of duplicated options.
Not using Photoshop can feel like a threat to your portfolio, but using it can feel like a threat to your wallet.
Thankfully, learning Photoshop doesn’t have to be as extensive as you might expect. We’re going to give you a beginner’s guide to using Photoshop. Keep reading to learn how to use Photoshop like a professional.
What Photoshop Can Do
Photoshop can be used to create and alter images and graphics, as well as to add effects and other alterations. Using the various tools and features within Photoshop, the user can easily enhance images, including cropping, changing colors, and adding text.
Photoshop’s editing features can also be used to retouch images, correct imperfections, and remove unwanted items. Photoshop can also create designs, logos, and other visual elements, which can be used to enhance websites, advertisements, and other materials.
Getting Started With the Toolbox
To get started, familiarize yourself with the Toolbox. This includes all the features, functions, and tools you will use for photo editing and graphic design. Familiarize yourself with Tool selection, Shape tools, drawing, painting, measuring and type tools.
In addition, you will also want to learn about layers, gradients, filters, brushes, motions and paths. All of these features are important to create your desired digital artwork.
Once you are comfortable with the Toolbox, you can move on to other aspects of Photoshop, such as color adjustment, editing text, working with selections, etc. Learning all the functions of the Toolbox will take time, but it will be worth it in the end.
Working With Image Layers
Layers are a great way to add a unique element to any design and make it stand out. The layer palette is where all elements of the design are located and can easily be manipulated with the click of a mouse. With layers comes the ability to blend different images together to create a unique look.
To start, open your image in Photoshop and create a new layer on top of the background. Add objects to this layer or use blend modes to combine elements from different layers. Photoshop also allows you to easily re-order and adjust the opacity of layers to get the desired effect.
Customize Images
Photoshopping photos to customize them is a great way to create unique artwork. Beginners should start by familiarizing themselves with the various tools the program has, so they know how to manipulate their images.
Use the Paintbrush tool to fill in shapes or create custom strokes or borders. Use the Brush tool to create a variety of brushstroke effects with different size, shape and pressure settings.
The Eraser tool is great for removing parts of an image, while the Gradient tool can be used to blend two colors together. Finally, adding shadows in Photoshop can be done using Drop Shadow tool.
Become Better at Using Photoshop
Overall, using Photoshop is a fundamental skill for all digital creators and can dramatically improve the quality of your work. Taking the time to improve your Photoshop skills will open up endless creative possibilities!
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