PhotoShop
Dec 6, 2011 13:22:34 #
Thinking of buying a copy of PhotoShop. Seems like there are MANY flavors and varieties and add-ons. What do I start wtih? Or is there a better program to use? I'm learning digital, haven't started RAW yet, but will eventually get into it.
Dec 6, 2011 13:42:22 #
I would say buy the basic program and play with it until you're comfortable with it. Then add plugins that interest you later. As far as which version to get, Elements is great for beginning and not real expensive but if you use it alot you're going to want to move into the CS versions eventually. Buying an older version of CS will get you started, again for less money, and later you can upgrade to the newest, greatest version. It's all, really, a matter of personal preference, and how much you want to spend.....
Dec 6, 2011 13:51:08 #
Personally, I think Photoshop is overpriced. That said, it is the defacto standard for many out there. I purchased CS3 a while ago and was overwhelmed by all the features and tools---way more than I need to just do smiple post processing. Now the only thing I use Photoshop for is merging pictures for panos, and I do this very infrequently. I use ACDSee Pro for almost everything now, and it gives me the same if not better results than a high-priced Adobe package.
As someone else recommended, I would invest in Elements first or just download the trial version of Photoshop (I think this is still available?) before you make the investment. For those who are PS experts, it can't be beat. However, for the average user like me it's overkill.
As someone else recommended, I would invest in Elements first or just download the trial version of Photoshop (I think this is still available?) before you make the investment. For those who are PS experts, it can't be beat. However, for the average user like me it's overkill.
Dec 6, 2011 15:03:31 #
Thanks so far, that's just the type of input I was looking for.
Dec 6, 2011 17:23:51 #
Mickey88
Loc: Central Florida
paint shop pro is a great program that will allow you to do everything photoshop does at a much lower price, and with an easier learning curve
Dec 7, 2011 08:37:52 #
GIMP is free online, many (actually most) of the same features as older versions of full blown photoshop.
I have Elements, CS5, and Gimp, as well as a few other photo softwares that I've collected over the years. I'd say Elements 10 is probably the best place to start. It is cheap, you can find tons of tutorials, and now that it has content aware fill, I use it more than even CS5.
The only reason I even open CS5 now is for doing RAW and seriously detailed stuff.
I have Elements, CS5, and Gimp, as well as a few other photo softwares that I've collected over the years. I'd say Elements 10 is probably the best place to start. It is cheap, you can find tons of tutorials, and now that it has content aware fill, I use it more than even CS5.
The only reason I even open CS5 now is for doing RAW and seriously detailed stuff.
Dec 7, 2011 08:41:17 #
Photoshop is amazing; I use it at work everyday but having said that...I don't use but 15% of it's capabilities if that.
I use Lightroom and Photoshop elements for my home use as I really think for most of us PS is overkill.
I use Lightroom and Photoshop elements for my home use as I really think for most of us PS is overkill.
Dec 7, 2011 08:49:29 #
LaurieB
Loc: North Dakota
I have used Elements for years and find that is enough for me. I shoot everything in RAW. Right now you can get Elements 10 for around $55.00. You can download the trials for free or go to Adobe and compare the differences.
Dec 7, 2011 10:13:26 #
Nikocarol
Loc: NM & FL
If you are a beginner...PS ELements is the wise choice. Does most everything you will need. Good luck...be patient and have fun!
You tube has some great videos on the learning curve of Elements
You tube has some great videos on the learning curve of Elements
Dec 7, 2011 10:43:06 #
I downloaded the free version of PS when I first started.....too much !! I went with Elements 9 and shooting RAW......that's the way to start !
Dec 7, 2011 11:21:17 #
Paint Shop Pro Photo X4 is around $80 full retail, and so is Photoshop Elements. (You can buy for less at Costco or some other places, Google to find out ...). PSPX4 is nearly as full featured as the full Photoshop, and Photoshop is a few hundred bucks, so to me, it's a no brainer. Now, I know that PS is the "defacto standard" and all that, and if you are a pro photographer and need to say you use PS (most current version), you won't agree with me. But for that vast majority of people here ... even ones earning $$$$ with their camera ... PSE and PSP will cover their needs. I found PSE a little easier to use, but PSP will do more if you need it.
Dec 7, 2011 13:02:45 #
Just found a link to learn a little about PSE if anyone is interested. 2 PDF trial issues. http://www.photoshopelementsuser.com/learningcenter/
Dec 7, 2011 13:08:21 #
Thanks for that link ! I can never learn enough and the videos on Utube leave a lot to be desired !
Dec 7, 2011 13:13:07 #
I guess I am the only human being using FastStone Image Viewer. It's free and does a great job. What I really love is once the main screen is up, all you have to do is roll the mouse on any edge of the screen and each side has a fly out munu. EXAMPLES: move mouse to right side of monitor and a flyout wiondow of all the image properties is in view. the left side and bottom contain all editing choices.
Photoshop is a whole can of worms in it's own. Not dissing it, just a huge commitment to try and learn.
Photoshop is a whole can of worms in it's own. Not dissing it, just a huge commitment to try and learn.
Dec 7, 2011 13:24:04 #
To all users of both PSE-10 and CS5:
I just purchased PS Elements 10, so I have no experience. My question: If & when I "graduate" to a full PhotoShop version, are most of the functions (such as memorized shortcuts) the same, like an upgrade, or more like two completely different programs?
I just purchased PS Elements 10, so I have no experience. My question: If & when I "graduate" to a full PhotoShop version, are most of the functions (such as memorized shortcuts) the same, like an upgrade, or more like two completely different programs?
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