Best way to learn Adobe PS Elements

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SazzyB100

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Sarah
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I want to learn more about post-processing as currently just use iPhoto. I have bought a copy of PS Elements but don't really know where to start!! Is it better to just have a play around with it or are there are any good (short) courses to learn the basics?
 
As above and take photos and practice:).

One tip- I sometimes find it handy to go to 100% on a setting - either positive or negative to see what the effect is as sometimes they can be subtle. Once you know exactly what it's doing then moderate accordingly.

You could also participate here where people document their workflow (usually much more scientifically than me:D) so you can repeat or here where you can try as many different techniques as you want, often at the same time without any fear that it will look daft. Although some may not think so( :bat:), I've learned loads from playing and from the people taking part- past and present:)
 
As above and there are several decent books in places like Smiths that will guide you from the very basics to more advanced features.

Couple of points that were passed on to me when I started.

Never work on an original file, especially when you're learning. Always make a copy. That way if you do inadvertently save it you've still got the original. Get into the habit of using separate adjustment layers when making adjustments also.

Enjoy
 
I find the Kelby/Kloskowski book excellent and gives structure to my learning (which I like). One link to the PSE 12 version of their book is here:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Photoshop-E...=1396548498&sr=1-1&keywords=Kelby elements 12

I supplement that with You Tube videos and ......

....... Elements Village is an excellent site for PSE.

http://www.elementsvillage.com/forums/index.php

If they don't know the answer to a question re PSE, then there probably isn't one :)


The combination of TP, the book, EV site and you tube videos has improved my PSE skills beyond recognition compared with what they were only a few months ago.
 
Gaz J said:
As above and there are several decent books in places like Smiths that will guide you from the very basics to more advanced features.

Couple of points that were passed on to me when I started.

Never work on an original file, especially when you're learning. Always make a copy. That way if you do inadvertently save it you've still got the original. Get into the habit of using separate adjustment layers when making adjustments also.

Enjoy
Click to expand...

Having never used PSE, is it like a watered down version of CS? If so then yes, make sure you make a duplicate background layer OR a duplicate file altogether. That is where Lightroom comes into its own. One click and it is back to SOOC state. I find LR 5.3 and CS6 a nice combination.
 
Im a PSE user, and I do find pretty un intuitive to use. Unsharp mask being a good indicator of this. I really wish I was good at PP, but I dont have the patience to fight with software that should do as you would expect.
 
I have Photoshop Elements 11 and am a complete novice when it comes to post processing. I have found the Photoshop Elements 11 Missing Manual by Barbara Brundage (ISBN: 978-1-449-31613-6) very useful. The first chapter: Finding your way around Elements starts you off gently, before it starts covering all the other areas. I have found it a well laid out and very comprehensive guide. There is also links to a site for example photos you can download and practice on whilst referencing the book. As previous posters have said, You Tube is also very good as well.

I hope this is of some help to you. Good luck!
 
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