12 Adobe Photoshop Tips and Tricks to Make Your Life Easier

Posted on 12/03/2023 by Niko Venev


       

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Adobe Photoshop is a feature-packed piece of software used by scores of photographers, graphic designers, and other types of professionals. But all of those features can make Photoshop a bit hard to use for beginners, and even people with a lot of Photoshop experience might not be doing things as efficiently as they could be. Learning a few Photoshop tricks and tips can help you get your work done faster and more easily, especially if you find yourself constantly repeating complicated and time-consuming tasks with the software. Here are some valuable tips and tricks for Photoshop users to help you make the most of your time:

  • Add Guide Lines: There are multiple ways to place guides on your image to help you keep everything lined up where you want it, but the quickest is to just click and drag them in from the ruler bars on the top, bottom, and sides. (If you don't see the ruler bars, use Control+R to show them.)
  • Tweak Your Brushes With Your Keyboard: Rather than clicking back and forth whenever you need to change the size or hardness of your brush, you can use quick keyboard shortcuts. Use the bracket keys to make your brush bigger or smaller, or use the same keys while holding down Shift to adjust the brush's hardness. This can end up being one of the biggest time-saving tips for Adobe Photoshop!
  • Get Smart With Your Layers: Smart Objects in Photoshop are layers that you can edit without losing any of the image quality of the original. You can make any layer "smart" by right-clicking on it and choosing Convert to Smart Object.
  • Focus on One Layer: When you're working with a multi-layered image, you can hide all of the layers but one by holding down the Alt key (or Option if you're on a Mac) and clicking on the little eyeball icon on the layer you want to keep. When you want to see all of the layers again, just repeat this action to un-hide them.
  • Copy a Layer Style Onto Multiple Layers: If you've already configured all of the settings for one layer's style but you need to use the same style on other layers, too, just hold down the Alt or Option key, then click on the "fx" icon next to the name of the first layer and drag it onto the other layers.
  • Undo, Undo, and Undo Again: If you've ever found yourself wishing that you could Undo more than once, this will be one of the most valuable Adobe Photoshop tips for you. Click Edit, then Preferences, then Performance. Now, over on the right side of this window, set the History States to a higher number. You can actually have hundreds of them if you want, but if you do that, Photoshop is likely to lag, so it's best to stick with a few dozen at most.
  • Take Advantage of the Blur Gallery: Using Gaussian blur is a great way to minimize noise in an image, but it's not the only blur option you have. Look under Filter > Blur Gallery to find all sorts of great options to create different effects. For example, Iris blur can help you draw attention to the focal point of an image by mimicking a shallow depth of field, while Tilt-Shift blur gives you a more linear blur effect like you could achieve with a tilt-shift lens.
  • Add Automation to Retouching: Fix your subjects' skin fast by creating an Action that uses the power of frequency separation to help you produce a realistic effect. Click the Create New Action button in the Actions panel and give your new action a name. Now, use Control+J to make two copies of your background layer. Name the upper layer "High Frequency" and the lower layer "Low Frequency," then hide the High Frequency layer. While on the Low-Frequency layer, go to Filter > Blur > Gaussian Blur, then increase the radius until most of the detail is removed from the image. Now, you can un-hide the High-Frequency layer. On this layer, change the blend mode to Linear Light, then add a High Pass filter (Filter > Other > High Pass). Lower the radius to restore the detail in the image. Stop recording your action here, then look at the list of actions and check the square buttons next to Gaussian Blur and High Pass. Now, you'll be able to run your Action on any photo, and it will pause on those two steps to allow you to manually adjust them to suit each image.
  • Make it Rain: You don't have to stand outside in the rain to get the effect of rain in your images. To amp up the drama, start by creating an all-black layer, then go to Filter > Noise > Add Noise and set it to around 25%. Next, blur the noise with Filter > Blur > Motion Blur, adjusting the angle of the blur to fit the angle of the "rain" you envision. Finally, change the layer's blend mode to Screen.
  • Or Make it Snow: You can use the same trick to add snow to a winter scene if nature didn't cooperate with you that day. Make your added noise Gaussian and monochromatic, then add Gaussian blur. Go to Image > Adjustments > Levels and drag the black slider to the right to take out most of the noise, and tinker with the white slider until you like the look of your "snow." Then, change the layer's blend mode to Screen and add a bit of motion blur to soften up the snow a little.
  • Tidy Up Your Brushes: If you use lots of different brushes, you don't need to dig through the jumble to find the one you want. Just right-click in the Brush panel and choose Create Group, then organize your brushes any way you'd like.
  • Copy Colors From Anywhere Quickly: If you see a color you want to use online, you don't have to take a screenshot of it to be able to get the right color in Photoshop. Instead, just select the eyedropper tool, then tile your Photoshop window with your browser window so that they're side by side. Now, click on your canvas in Photoshop and drag the eyedropper onto the color you want in the other window.

 

Learn the Best Photoshop Tricks and Tips From an Expert

Whether you need to learn the very basics of Photoshop or cool tricks to speed up your workflow, the professional instructors at Certstaffix Training can help you do it. Our Adobe Photoshop training classes cover everything you need to know about this powerful piece of software, from beginner skills like how to create and work with layers to advanced Photoshop tips and tricks involving automation, AI, and video editing. With live instruction, you'll be able to get hands-on experience with Photoshop and real-time feedback to help you learn more efficiently. Or you can opt for a self-paced course and master the material whenever it's convenient for you. Either way, you'll get a professionally designed course created to maximize your learning. Sign up with Cerstaffix Training to get the skills you need today!

 



 


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How Much Do Adobe Photoshop Training Courses Cost?

Public instructor-led Adobe Photoshop course prices start at $1330 per student. Group training discounts are available.

Self-Paced Adobe Photoshop eLearning courses cost $300 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.

What Adobe Photoshop Skills Should I Learn?

A: If you are wondering what Adobe Photoshop skills are important to learn, we've written an Adobe Photoshop Skills and Learning Guide that maps out Photoshop skills that are key to master and which of our courses teaches each skill.

Read Our Adobe Photoshop Skills and Learning Guide

What's the Best Way to Learn Photoshop, and How Long Does it Take?

A: Generally, the best way to learn Adobe Photoshop is through structured courses taught by live instructors that cover the concepts you need to know and offer opportunities for hands-on learning. Your potential to master Photoshop can depend on choosing an appropriate learning environment, whether you opt for online or in-person classes. Individuals who are new to Photoshop may experience a learning curve that can demand weeks or months of training and practice, while those who are familiar with image editing programs can learn new and relevant skills in just days.

More Information on the Best Way to Learn Photoshop and How Long it Takes

Can I Learn With Photoshop Courses Online?

A: Yes. While it’s possible to learn Photoshop online by referencing videos and tutorials offered by Adobe, many people new to the software find that taking Photoshop courses is a much more effective way to master this complex program. These types of courses can be taken in person at sites all over the country as well as online. Classes can last anywhere from a few days to months, and the cost can run from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

One of the most useful skills you can learn for your personal and professional growth is how to use Photoshop. With this software, you will be able to create designs, illustrations and modify pictures that will help you stand out in your job or school projects. However, finding an efficient way to acquire this skill while taking care of our daily responsibilities becomes increasingly challenging.

Fortunately, there are several options you can take to learn Photoshop. One of the most popular and convenient is through online learning, where you can access self-paced online photoshop class or enroll in live online Adobe Photoshop class. These resources provide a flexible schedule that adapts to your needs, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from anywhere with internet connection.

Self-paced Photoshop online classes offer interactive lessons taught by recorded instructors giving lectures. These classes cover a wide range of topics, from the basics of photo editing to advanced techniques used by professionals. They also include hands-on assignments that will help you put your skills into practice and build a strong portfolio.

On the other hand, live online photoshop courses offer a more comprehensive learning experience, taught by a live instructor and usually with a structured curriculum and certification upon completion. These courses may have a higher cost than classes, but they provide the ability to ask questions and interact with other students to master the software.

Whether you choose to take self-paced online photoshop classes or enroll in a live online Photoshop course, both options provide convenient and efficient ways to learn this valuable skill. With dedication and commitment, you will be able to enhance your design abilities and stand out in any professional or personal project with the help of Photoshop learning. Don't hesitate to take advantage of these resources and start mastering this powerful tool today. So, if you have been wondering "Can I learn Photoshop online?" the answer is yes, and it's just a few clicks away.

More Information on How to Learn Photoshop Online

How Can a Beginner or Advanced User Learn New Adobe Photoshop Skills?

A: For beginners or advanced users, learning new Photoshop skills is as simple as choosing the right course. While there are many Photoshop books, videos, tutorials, and guides available, good courses are often those that are taught by a live instructor and are highly structured. To choose the perfect class, users should consider their industry and professional duties and pick a class that covers relevant skills. Beginners should enroll in classes that teach the software's fundamentals, such as its interface, before attempting to learn about the software's advanced features.

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How Do Professionals Work With Photoshop?

A: Photoshop is used by creative professionals to create and alter digital images. People who commonly use this program include photographers, graphic designers, Web designers, and advertisers. While projects and the way that they're created or modified can vary between professions, users typically employ the software to retouch photos, combine images, add effects, and create mock-ups. Photoshop can be used to facilitate the refinement of shapes, textures, and lines or add text to an image. Beginners can use pre-existing templates to easily start and complete projects. To master Photoshop skills, novices are encouraged to sign up for instructor-led classes.

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How Can I Learn Photoshop for Graphic Design?

A: Graphic design with Photoshop can be tricky to learn on your own, so it's best to find a skilled instructor to guide you. They can help you with acquiring basic abilities like manipulating images, adding text, and applying effects with hands-on instruction and real-time feedback. Whether you're looking to learn basic or advanced graphic design skills to use in print, in video production, or on the Web, the right training can make all the difference.

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How Do Photographers Use Photoshop?

A: Photographers use Photoshop alongside other Adobe products to retouch, enhance, and transform their photos. While the specific tools available to photographers can depend on their particular version of Photoshop, all of Adobe's programs can streamline a photographer's workflow, from basic duties like organizing to more advanced tasks like compositing. Considered the most feature-rich of Adobe's products, Photoshop can offer all that a photographer needs to complete work in both a desktop and mobile environment. Amateur photographers who want to master this program should enroll in instructor-led courses, as it can be rather difficult to learn independently.

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How Can I Learn to Edit Photos Using Adobe Photoshop?

A: Since Adobe Photoshop is a complex program, beginners who want to learn to use this software to edit images should first think about which types of modifications they want to make to their photos. Then, they should choose and get comfortable with the Photoshop features that make these modifications easiest. Some of these tools can be fairly simple, but others may be more complex. Reviewing Adobe's basic tutorials can get you started, but often, it's easier to learn what you need to know with the help of a professional instructor.

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Are There Any Adobe Photoshop Tricks or Tips That Can Help Me Be More Productive?

A: Yes! Photoshop has a ton of functionality to help you do just about any kind of image manipulation, but some of these tasks can be done in more than one way. Knowing the quickest, easiest way to get the results you want out of Photoshop can be a real time-saver, so if you find yourself doing some of the same types of edits over and over again, it's worthwhile to see if there's a Photoshop tip or trick that can help you be more efficient.

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Are Photoshop and Lightroom the Same?

A: Photoshop and Lightroom, while both Adobe products used by creatives, are two different pieces of software that are designed to retouch and manipulate images, art, and digital media. These programs offer a wide variety of features. Exploring the differences and similarities and getting training in these different programs allows professionals to develop valuable skills that can be used to improve the quality of the media created and streamline the photo editing processes.

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What Are the Basic Uses of Photoshop?

A: Photoshop is a popular graphics editing program used to create and manipulate images across many industries. Photographers, Web designers, graphic designers, marketers, and advertisers rely on the program to produce work that reaches large audiences. While every industry has specific uses for the software, basic image editing skills such as cropping, resizing, and rotating images, removing backgrounds, manipulating colors, and creating composites are applied to many projects. When looking for training, beginners have a wide array of free tutorials and guides from which to choose, but our courses provide the best training to help you understand this complex program.

More Information on Learning the Basics of Photoshop

What Makes Taking a Photoshop Class Worth It?

A: While it's possible to establish a career without formal Photoshop training, the benefits of completing Photoshop courses and earning a certification are numerous. Taking Photoshop courses demonstrates your proficiency with the software to hiring managers, sets you apart from other candidates, increases your pay rate, positions you for related jobs and promotions, and can even display your soft skills. Additional benefits of taking Photoshop courses include introducing you to similar Adobe products and helping you earn specialty credentials. Choosing the right Photoshop course can be essential, and instructor-led classes are often the best investment.

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What Kind of Jobs Can I Get With a Photoshop Certification?

A: Since Photoshop skills are in high demand, many corporate employers in the photography, video editing, graphic design, and Web design industries welcome applicants with Photoshop certifications with open arms. Other employment opportunities, such as those in the realm of freelancing and education, can also be viable career paths. Photoshop skills can also be relevant in seemingly unrelated industries, such as marketing and advertising. While having a portfolio of sample work can display your skills, a Photoshop certification can unequivocally demonstrate your proficiency with the software in a competitive marketplace.

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How Can I Learn Photoshop in an Easy Way?

A: Photoshop's complex features can make it challenging to master. To learn how to use the program as easily as possible, identify your professional goals, understand your learning style, and avail yourself of educational resources that clearly explain concepts and demonstrate skills. Take steps to streamline your educational journey, such as familiarizing yourself with the software's interface and assigning yourself small projects to obtain hands-on experience. For many students, signing up for a course taught by a live teacher is the best way to demystify the program.

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How Can I Understand the Tools and Effects of Photoshop?

A: Photoshop is a notoriously challenging piece of software to grasp for beginners, and much of its complexity lies in its tools and effects. To master Photoshop for specific jobs, students should identify which tools and effects are most relevant to their projects and research them, both within the program and with help from high-quality educational resources. For more in-depth knowledge and to build skills, novices are encouraged to sign up for instructor-led training.

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How Has the World Changed Because of Photoshop?

A: Since its inception, Photoshop has completely transformed the creation and use of digital images for both commercial and personal purposes. Photoshop simplified the graphic design process and made the design and modification of digital images cost-effective. This has had a significant influence on the economy by creating new jobs while also contributing to cultural spheres such as art, film-making, and comedy. The incorporation of artificial intelligence into the software promises to add new layers of creativity and accessibility. But while Photoshop is powerful, it's also complex, meaning that those new to using Photoshop should seek out instructor-led courses to help them understand it.

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Why Should I Learn Advanced Photoshop Techniques?

A: While mastering Photoshop's basic features and functions can position you as a competent applicant, learning advanced Photoshop techniques can increase your attractiveness as an employee, open you up to more job opportunities, and even increase your salary. On a practical level, learning how to operate Photoshop as a power user can help you produce more accurate work, improve your productivity and efficiency, streamline your workflow, and make you capable of creating professional projects fit for corporate environments.

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Which Jobs Use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator?

A: Generally, professionals who want to modify and retouch images or make composites will use Adobe Photoshop, while those who seek to create designs will rely on Adobe Illustrator. Some people may use both Photoshop and Illustrator for their work; photographers, Web designers, graphic artists, and others can use both programs to varying degrees based on specific projects' needs. Since both programs can be challenging to learn, no matter which you choose to use, it's a good idea to sign up for training with a knowledgeable instructor.

More Information on Which Jobs Use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator

Which course is best for Photoshop?

A: There are many different Photoshop training courses available, and it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. The best way to choose a Photoshop course is to consider your specific needs and objectives. For example, if you want to learn how to retouch photos, then you will need a different course than someone who wants to learn how to create graphic design layouts. Once you have determined your objectives, you can begin to research different photoshop courses that will help you achieve your goals.

Certstaffix Training's Photoshop courses teach topics like Photo Corrections, Selections, Layers, Masks and Channels, Typography, Vector Drawings, Brushes, and more.

How long will it take me to learn Photoshop?

A: The answer to this question depends on several factors, including your prior experience with similar software, your willingness to practice and learn new techniques, and the specific goals you hope to achieve with Photoshop.

That said, most people who take our Adobe Photoshop classes online report feeling confident and proficient after completing the course. Many students can begin using the software for their projects immediately after finishing the class. Practice after class is important for first-time or less experienced users.

How long will it take me to learn Photoshop?

A: The answer to this question depends on several factors, including your prior experience with similar software, your willingness to practice and learn new techniques, and the specific goals you hope to achieve with Photoshop.

That said, most people who take our Adobe Photoshop classes online report feeling confident and proficient after completing the course. Many students can begin using the software for their projects immediately after finishing the class. Practice after class is important for first-time or less experienced users.

How difficult is learning Photoshop?

A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the difficulty of learning Photoshop will vary depending on your prior experience and knowledge. However, we can say that our Adobe Photoshop classes are designed to be user-friendly and accessible for all skill levels.

Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, our training can help you get the most out of this powerful software. The key for new Photoshop users is to keep practicing after class until each concept you wish to use regularly is firmly learned and comes naturally when you need to perform each. This can take several days to several months of practice, depending on your prior experience level and number of Photoshop features you are looking to utilize on a regular basis.

What are options to learn Adobe Photoshop?

The demand for professionals skilled in Adobe Photoshop is constantly growing, making it a highly valuable skill to have in today's business landscape. Whether you are a graphic designer, photographer, or marketer, mastering this powerful tool will give you an edge in the competitive job market.

If you are looking to enhance your skills in Adobe Photoshop and gain a deeper understanding of its various features and functions, enrolling in photoshop adobe classes is the way to go. These classes are designed to provide hands-on training and practical applications of the software, equipping you with the knowledge and expertise needed to create stunning visual designs.

By completing an adobe photoshop certification class, you will not only gain recognition for your skills but also boost your credibility as a professional in the field. Adobe Photoshop certification classes will showcase your dedication and commitment to mastering the software, making you stand out among other applicants. Taking a Photoshop certification course online also involves no travel, which can save costs and time.

The convenience of online learning has made it easier for individuals to pursue their interests and enhance their skills from the comfort of their own homes. With an Adobe Photoshop course with certificate, you can learn at your own pace and still receive a recognized certification upon completion.

For those who prefer in-person learning, there are numerous in person Photoshop classes near me or corporate training options available. These courses offer the opportunity to learn from industry experts and network with other professionals in your area. In fact, some of the best Photoshop classes near me may be offered by local institutions or training organizations.

If you prefer a more hands-on and personalized approach to learning, you can also opt for Photoshop lessons near me. These classes are typically smaller in size, allowing for more individualized attention from the instructor.

No matter your preferred learning style, there is undoubtedly an option that will cater to your needs and help you become proficient in Adobe Photoshop. Whether it be through online or in-person courses, it is important to invest in yourself and continuously enhance your skills.

So why wait? Take the first step in mastering Adobe Photoshop by enrolling in one of the many Photoshop classes in person near me or online. You'll be on your way to creating visually stunning designs and standing out as a professional in your field. Don't hesitate to learn Adobe Photoshop online or find local Photoshop classes, as these opportunities are essential for career growth and success.

What are the top Photoshop skills?

A: As one of the most popular image editing programs available, Photoshop is used by people all over the world to edit and enhance photos and images. While the program has many features and tools, there are some skills that are considered essential for anyone who wants to use Photoshop effectively.

Top Photoshop Skills

1. Layers - One of the most powerful features in Photoshop is the ability to work with layers. Layers allow you to make changes to an image without affecting the underlying image data. This makes it possible to easily experiment with different effects and make changes without having to start from scratch.

2. Masking - Masking is another powerful feature in Photoshop that allows you to selectively edit parts of an image. Masking makes it possible to isolate areas of an image so that you can make changes without affecting the rest of the image.

3. Selection Tools - Photoshop has a number of selection tools that allow you to select specific parts of an image for editing. These selection tools include the marquee tools, lasso tools, and magic wand tool.

4. Brushes - Photoshop comes with a variety of brushes that can be used for various purposes such as painting, retouching, and airbrushing. The different types of brushes available include standard brushes, airbrushes, calligraphic brushes, and custom brushes.

5. Adjustment Layers - Adjustment layers are special layers that allow you to apply adjustments to an image without affecting the underlying image data. This is a great way to experiment with different effects and make changes without having to start from scratch.

6. Filters - Photoshop comes with a number of built-in filters that can be used to change the look of an image. These filters include blur filters, sharpening filters, noise reduction filters, and color correction filters.

7. Layer Styles - Layer styles are special effects that can be applied to layers. These effects can be used to create drop shadows, glows, bevels, and other effects.

8. Type Tools - Photoshop includes a number of type tools that allow you to add text to an image. These type tools include the horizontal type tool, vertical type tool, and Warp Text tool.

9. Shape Layers - Shape layers are special layers that allow you to create shapes in an image. These shapes can be used to create selections, masks, and even type.

10. Vector Layers - Vector layers are special layers that allow you to create vector graphics in an image. Vector graphics are resolution independent which means they can be scaled up or down without losing quality.

These are just some of the top Photoshop skills that you should learn in order to use the program effectively. By learning these skills, you'll be able to create stunning images and photos that will wow your friends and family.

Where Can I Learn More About Adobe Photoshop?

Adobe Blogs

Adobe User Groups

Adobe Online Forums

Explore Photoshop Training Classes Near Me:

Certstaffix Training provides Photoshop classes near me or online, depending on the number of students involved. We offer online courses for individual learners, as well as in person classes at your office for corporate groups. Our trainers are highly experienced professionals with the expertise necessary to help you gain a thorough understanding of Photoshop concepts and tools. With our courses available online for individuals or in person for corporate groups, it's easy to develop your Photoshop skills. Start learning today and see how Certstaffix Training can help you reach your goals.







 

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