Photoshop is a favorite application for many people. The things you can do with it are amazing. The only problem is that because this tool has so many features, it can be time-consuming to learn them all. However, there are plenty of easy ways to improve your Photoshop skills. In this article, we will explore five of them.
Learn shortcuts
Photoshop is a robust software, offering a multitude of features and tools. However, the challenge lies in remembering the location of each tool or feature within the menu or toolbar. Relying solely on the mouse for every action can be quite time-consuming, particularly when working with Photoshop.
To become proficient in Photoshop, it is crucial to prioritize the mastery of keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts serve as invaluable tools for navigating the software efficiently. For instance, to access the brush tool, simply press the B key. Adding a new layer can be accomplished swiftly by using Command-Shift-N (Mac) or Control-Shift-N (PC). By familiarizing yourself with these shortcuts, you can streamline your workflow and enhance productivity.
It is worth noting that all the widely used tools and features in Photoshop come equipped with keyboard shortcuts that are worth remembering. In the event that a frequently used tool lacks a predefined shortcut, you even have the option to customize your own. This allows for a personalized and efficient workflow tailored to your specific needs. By harnessing the power of keyboard shortcuts, you can maximize your productivity and streamline your editing process in Photoshop.
A highly effective approach to mastering Photoshop shortcuts is to create a visual reference by printing out a comprehensive list of shortcuts and prominently displaying it on a wall within your workspace. This easily accessible reminder serves as a valuable resource whenever you encounter a task for which you are unsure of the corresponding keyboard shortcut. By regularly consulting this memo, you can swiftly familiarize yourself with the shortcuts and gradually internalize them, optimizing your efficiency and proficiency in Photoshop.
Try different ways to do things
In the realm of Photoshop, there rarely exists a singular path to accomplish a task. Rather, a multitude of tools can be employed to achieve similar outcomes, albeit through distinct approaches. A common pitfall for Photoshop beginners is the tendency to acquire techniques without genuinely comprehending their purpose or underlying principles. It is crucial to grasp not only the "how" but also the "why" behind these techniques, in order to truly harness their potential and make informed creative decisions.
As an illustration, consider the utilization of a High Pass filter for image sharpening. However, it is worth contemplating whether employing it on a Smart Sharpen layer yields divergent outcomes. Surprisingly, the answer is negative, as both methods yield identical results.
In your next Photoshop session, venture beyond your habitual tool selection and experiment with alternatives. For instance, if you frequently rely on Levels, challenge yourself to explore the potential of Curves, and vice versa. As demonstrated in the aforementioned example, both adjustments enhance contrast. While there may be instances where the desired outcome is not fully achieved, more often than not, you will find success. Regardless of the outcome, this exercise will grant you a deeper comprehension of both tools, enriching your overall understanding and proficiency in Photoshop.
Once you shift your mindset from focusing solely on the method of accomplishing a task to exploring the boundless possibilities offered by any given tool, you embark on the path towards mastering Photoshop. By embracing this perspective, you unlock your creative potential and open yourself up to a world of endless opportunities within the realm of Photoshop.
See how professionals work
A multitude of individuals have acquired their Photoshop proficiency by observing seasoned professionals in action, deeming it the most effective approach to honing one's skills in this realm. The most challenging aspect of mastering Photoshop lies not in comprehending the functionality of each tool, but rather in discerning the opportune moments to employ them. While grasping the mechanics of various tools may seem relatively straightforward, discerning their optimal application requires a deeper level of understanding and expertise.
A significant number of individuals opt for online courses to acquire foundational knowledge in Photoshop, only to discontinue their learning journey, assuming they have amassed sufficient expertise. However, it is crucial to recognize the importance of pursuing more advanced courses. Rather than attempting to mimic the instructor, it is more beneficial to observe and analyze their utilization of various tools. By adopting this approach, you absorb their wisdom and gain the ability to apply that knowledge to your own creative endeavors.
Don't do everything at once
One of the gravest mistakes one can make while utilizing Photoshop is becoming engrossed in a project, completing it, saving it, and promptly sharing it with the world or clients. In the midst of the creative process, it is all too easy to become carried away and inadvertently push the boundaries too far. Merely overindulging in saturation and contrast can transform a magnificent image into something abhorrent.
To rectify this, two strategies can elevate your Photoshop skills to new heights. Implementing them instantaneously will yield remarkable results. Firstly, consider reverting all effects back to 70%. This can be achieved by proceeding with your edits as usual until you are content with every aspect. Then, group all layers and lower the opacity to 70%.
Secondly, upon completing your edits, rise from your seat and embark on a relaxing 20-minute stroll. Resist the urge to glance back at your work until the entirety of this break has passed. When you eventually resume your seat, you will behold your creation with a fresh perspective, enabling you to effortlessly identify any problematic areas that require attention.
Non-destructive editing
When comparing Photoshop and GIMP, a notable distinction that users often observe is the ease of non-destructive editing in Photoshop. Essentially, there are two approaches to editing an image: directly modifying the original pixels or employing a non-destructive technique to record and reverse the modifications as required. The actual impact on pixels only occurs when the final product is saved.
Non-destructive editing stands as one of Photoshop's most significant advancements. Instead of starting from scratch when dissatisfied with a particular element, you can freely modify and edit it to your heart's content. Rather than relying on direct adjustments, utilizing adjustment layers is recommended. Similarly, instead of relying on tools like Sharpen, Dodge, and Burn, filters and curves layers can be employed.
Although this article does not delve into the intricacies of non-destructive editing, it is worth noting that most professionals employ these techniques. Observe how they revisit and modify their work, and apply these insights to your own workflow.
The aforementioned tips offer five ways to enhance your Photoshop skills. While some suggestions may appear straightforward, others may require time to master. It is important to acknowledge that you cannot become proficient in all keyboard shortcuts overnight, and learning from experts demands dedication and effort. The next time you work in Photoshop, experiment with different techniques and take a few minutes to rest once you are finished. Then, evaluate your work with a fresh perspective, ensuring that your final product exhibits significant improvement.
