Each class will have 3 parts, discussion of homework, demonstration of techniques, and one-on-one meetings.
Adobe Photoshop CS3 (or CS4) Classroom in a Book
Pass/Fail; To pass students must attend a minimum of five classes, gain an understanding of basic concepts, demonstrate basic technical skills, and complete and present a demonstration project.
Participants are expected to attend all class sessions.
Read: Lesson 5 Layer Basics & 6 Masking and Channels in Classroom in a Book
(4 & 5 in CS4)
Bring in a few photos to color correct and enhance.
Read: 3 Retuching and Repairing & 7 Correcting and Enhacning Digital Photographs (6 in CS4)
Optional Reading: Lesson 14 Producing and Printing Consistant Color
Start in class: enhancing and correcting your photos using adjustment layers, clone stamp, patch tool, and history brush.
Due next week 2 retouched photos. Photos must be 4x6 inches at 300 dpi be prepared to present your images at the begining of our next class.
Examples: photo retouch
Read: Lessons 10 Advanced Layering & 11 Advanced Compositing (9 & 10 in CS4)
making brushes: peachpit.com/articles/
smart filters: photoshopcafe.com/
Start In class: generate an image starting with a blank canvas.
Requirements: must use at least 5 Filters (2 must be smart filters), 2 Brushes (one must be created by you), 5 blending modes, 3 adjustment layers, 2 layer masks, and at least 10 layers. The file should be 8.5 x 11 or larger at 300 dpi. Name your layers after the filters used on them.
Example: Abstract
Read: Lessons 8 Typographic Design & 9 Vector Drawing Techniques (7 & 8 in CS4)
Optiona Readingl: Designing With Type
Design a CD Booklet. The file should be 4.75x4.75 inches at 300dpi. You need to use at least one photograph, 2 text layers, 2 adjustment layers, 3 blending modes, 2 layer masks, and 2 vector shapes. Enhance or alter your photograph to work with your typography.
If you need help coming up with a band name and album title use follow these rules:
1 - Go to Wikipedia. Hit “random.” Use the the first random Wikipedia article as the name of your band.
2 - Go to Quotations Page and select "random quotations." Use The last four or five words of the very last quote on the page as your album title.
Propose final Projects
In class: Design a 24in x 36in Poster at 150dpi. Re-design or do a parody a current movie poster, or design a concert poster.
The file must use at least 3 photos that are enhanced to fit the design. Enhancements should utilize layer masks, adjustment layers, filters and effects. Include at least 3 vector objects, 3 type layers, use filters if appropriate. Save 1 style and 1 action.
Tizag.com • a handy set of tutorials on tools, take a note that they are for Photoshop CS 1, but still apply.
Photoshop Killer Tips • iTunes Podcast
2 Minute Photoshop Tricks • iTunes Podcast
Photoshop Secret Shortcuts • webdesignerwall.com • this site as a number of other tutorials and a job board.
Photoshop Brushes • brusheezy.com/brushes
Tutorial 9 • tutorial9.net
The Ultimate Collection of Useful Photoshop Actions • smashingmagazine.com
istockphoto.com, gettyimages.com
Up to Speed • on amazon
Adobe Photoshop CS4 Studio Techniques • on amazon
Photoshop is a extensive program, and you will probably have some questions and problems. If you get stuck: