This course aims to introduce beginners to some of Adobe Photoshop’s creative features. It will give insights into creating enhancements to your images, using many of the software’s primary adjustment features, including working with layers, layer masks, tools and filters. It is ideal if you have little or no knowledge of Photoshop. In this step-by-step guide through the basics, you will work at your own pace in the College’s PC based, digital photography suite.

You will be able to see what manipulation techniques are available, using Photoshop to explore and experiment with your own images, using selection and creative tools and filters, and then moving onto more intermediate processes of layers, masks and paths.

The course starts with processes that show the fundamental elements of image enhancements in their basic form, including photo re-touching and repair. Demonstrations by the tutor will be followed by individual practice. You will develop your knowledge at your pace, from basic to more intermediate techniques. You will create multi-layered images, with the emphasis on using layers, masks and other creative tools. Using your own digital files, you will create an environment that incorporates the use of Photoshop as an everyday tool.

What students need to bring

• You should prepare and bring your own digital images. This can be on a memory stick, or digital camera cards can also be used with the appropriate reader or by using the computer’s onboard card reader ports. Raw files can be used within Photoshop, but some camera manufacturers require additional software, so it is advisable to keep file types as normal Tiff, Jpeg, Bmp or Psd files.

• Important: Bring a note of your own Adobe ID login. If you don’t already have one, please register for a free account at www.adobe.com prior to the course, and remember to bring the details with you.

• It is a good idea to select images of a range of subjects, e.g. landscapes, perspective shots, buildings, people and portraits, close-ups, skies, monuments and still life. These can be good quality images, not just those needing improvement.

• In addition, please bring: Your own digital camera (optional) if you wish to take some photographs during breaks to work on later, together with the relevant downloading software, camera/computer leads, fresh batteries/charger, blank memory cards and cameral manual.

• Laptop (with Photoshop downloaded) (optional)

• Please bring your preferred media to save work on at the end of the course, e.g. USB (large storage capacity) or portable hard drive storage device (plus connecting leads).

Available to buy

Available from shop: Memory sticks

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals, and safety boots, if specified.

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am

Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required

Terms & Conditions