Learning Adobe Photoshop is essential to success in digital media industries. Photoshop is a gateway into several related technologies. From digital image acquisition and processing to typography and compositing, Photoshop is often your first introduction. If you can master this program, you can go on to success with several other technologies. With this in mind, it is important to learn Photoshop with one eye on the present and the other on the future.
It’s been said that if you know Photoshop, there’s always work to be had. Photoshop is used by everyone from photographers to Web developers, video professionals to graphic designers. In fact, Photoshop is used in more places than you’d expect—including the medical, architectural, and legal fields. Adobe Photoshop is a portal to Adobe’s other software applications, but it is also much more. Mastering Photoshop’s tools will teach you more about creative technology tools than any other program. With a solid knowledge of Photoshop, you’ll be well on your way to being comfortable with the entire digital toolbox.
When I decided to write this book, it was to fill a need. I have worked with Photoshop students of all levels, from the college classroom to working professionals across all industries. What I’ve heard time and time again is that people wanted an objective book that gave them everything they needed to truly understand Adobe Photoshop. Readers have grown tired of books that talk down to them or waste time promoting only the latest features.
It’s not that there’s a shortage of good books for the professional; I’ve read many of them and know several of their authors. But what has happened over the years, as Photoshop has become such an established program, is that we are left with two types of books: those for complete beginners and those for pros looking to dig deep on specific areas of the program. What was missing? A book that addresses the need of the learner who wants to understand the important features of Adobe Photoshop, as well as the core technology behind it, to build a solid foundation for future learning and immediate success.
This book is for learners who learn best by not just reading but by doing. Every chapter contains extensive hands-on exercises and all the files you need to practice. With the purchase of this book you also have access to an exclusive version of our video podcast series. You have immediate access to 54 videos that show you advanced skills and special techniques. In addition, interactive quizzes help you check your progress to ensure the knowledge is “sticking.” The accompanying CD has everything you need. And be sure to visit www.rastervector.com and www.peachpit.com/understandingphotoshop for updates and bonus downloads.
If you are learning Photoshop in a classroom, this book should combine with your instructor’s knowledge to give you a rich, interactive learning experience. For those working professionals looking to fill in their understanding of Photoshop, this book answers and reinforces the essential information that you’ll need. For both audiences, this book teaches you what you need to succeed in the professional workplace. As a teacher and a working professional it is my goal to prepare you for professional success.
Photoshop is a very comprehensive program; don’t try to learn it overnight. In fact, rushing to learn is often what causes problems. In an effort to learn quickly, skills don’t have time to be absorbed. To combat this problem, I have eliminated nonessential topics from this book. I’ve also included a hands-on example or activity for every skill.
The truth is you’ll learn best by doing. Don’t skip the hands-on activities in a rush to make it through the book. I strongly encourage you to try each one. After completing the book’s activities, you should repeat the techniques with your own photos. Nothing makes a topic as clear as you experiencing it interactively and achieving success. With practice—regular and thorough—you can understand and master Photoshop.