Adobe software operates virtually identically across Mac and PC platforms. When taking this class at our physical locations, instruction uses PC hardware with Windows software. However, our instructors will highlight minor Mac keyboard shortcuts and interface differences throughout the course. For students taking this course from home or their office, you can use either PC or Mac hardware to connect remotely to the hosted Windows-based Adobe software environment.
Course overview and progression:
Once you establish a solid foundation and gain practical experience with Core Skills training, you will be prepared for Level 2 training advancement. Important: To ensure you possess the necessary prerequisite skills for successful participation in the Level 2 Photoshop training, please thoroughly review the specific topics covered in the Level 1 Photoshop course before enrolling.
In Level 2 classes, content moves at a faster pace, and greater emphasis is placed on workflow shortcuts and real-world professional tips and tricks to improve efficiency and results. Each lesson includes unique and challenging project files designed to reinforce learning. The Level 2 course explores advanced topics more thoroughly and incorporates some project files from our Level 1 courses for continued skill building.
Important version information:
Our Adobe classes support both the current CC and earlier CS6 versions. All classes are taught using the CC version of the software, but the content remains relevant for CS6 users as well. Additionally, we upgrade our software shortly after Adobe releases new training materials. Typically, new course content becomes available within 2 to 4 months after each software release cycle.
Course prerequisites and requirements:
Students should have existing experience with Photoshop and solid working knowledge of the skills covered in Core Skills: Level 1. Specifically, you should be comfortable with the work area, able to perform basic photo selections and corrections, and understand layering, masks, and channels fundamentals.
Detailed course outline and topics:
Quick Fixes and Image Adjustments
- Getting started with quick-fix tools
- Improving a snapshot and basic image quality
- Adjusting facial features with Liquify effects
- Blurring a background for portrait effects
- Creating a panorama from multiple images
- Filling empty areas when cropping images
- Correcting image distortion issues
- Extending the depth of field in photographs
- Moving objects with the Content-Aware Move tool
- Adjusting perspective in an image
Vector Drawing Techniques and Shapes
- Understanding bitmap images and vector graphics differences
- About paths and the Pen tool functionality
- Getting started with vector drawing
- Drawing with the Pen tool for precise paths
- Working with defined custom shapes and presets
- Importing a Smart Object for flexibility
- Adding color and depth to a shape using layer styles
Advanced Compositing Methods
- Getting started with advanced compositing
- Arranging layers for complex compositions
- Using Smart Filters for non-destructive editing
- Painting a layer to add custom elements
- Adding a background layer
- Using the History panel to undo previous edits
- Upscaling a low-resolution image effectively
Painting with the Mixer Brush
- Understanding the Mixer Brush capabilities and uses
- Getting started with the Mixer Brush
- Selecting and configuring brush settings
- Mixing colors effectively
- Creating a custom brush preset
- Mixing colors with a photograph
Editing Video in Photoshop
- Getting started with video editing
- Understanding the Timeline panel functionality
- Creating a new video project
- Animating text with keyframes
- Creating effects for video
- Adding transitions between clips
- Adding audio tracks
- Muting unwanted audio portions
- Rendering video for output
Working with Camera Raw Files
- Getting started with Camera Raw processing
- Understanding camera raw file format advantages
- Processing files in Camera Raw effectively
- Applying advanced color correction techniques
Preparing Files for the Web
- Getting started with web file preparation
- Using layer groups to create button graphics
- Automating a multistep task for efficiency
- Designing with artboards for web layouts
Producing and Printing Consistent Color
- Preparing files for professional printing
- Performing a zoom test for quality verification
- Identifying out-of-gamut colors
- Adjusting an image for print
- Converting an image to CMYK color space
- Understanding color management principles
- Specifying color-management settings
- Proofing an image on screen for accuracy
- Saving the image as a CMYK EPS file
- Printing a CMYK image directly from Photoshop
