Photoshop lessons for beginners - step-by-step course. The best YouTube tutorials and other ways to master Photoshop

Adobe is known to all users who have even a vague understanding of working with images and photographs. This is due to the fact that this company is the creator of the legendary Photoshop program. Today, this application is the de facto standard in the world of professional designers and artists.

The capabilities of the person who works in it are limited only by his own skill. However, not all users are real luminaries: how to work in Photoshop CS6? There are special video tutorials for beginners, but not everyone has time to watch them. Well, let's try to shed some light on this issue.

Let us immediately warn you that it is simply impossible to squeeze into this article even a couple of percent of the amount of information that would be appropriate in this case. Therefore, we will limit ourselves to only the most superficial introduction to the topic and will reveal the basic concepts that will be useful to you when mastering the Photoshop CS6 program.

Layers

Layer is the main constant you'll have to deal with. By the way, what is this? In this case, a layer is understood as a separate image that has its own boundaries, clearly delineated from other parts of the picture.

Why are such layers needed? This is a very important question. The fact is that it is thanks to them that it is possible to carry out operations on almost every part of the image, without affecting the entire picture as a whole. In fact, an image in Photoshop can be represented as a giant mosaic, for each puzzle in which transparency, color, and other parameters are separately set.

Since it is impossible to work in Photoshop CS6 (for beginners the program may seem very complicated, but in reality everything is not so scary) without the mentioned tool, we recommend that you master the basics and consolidate the acquired knowledge in practice. Taking the first steps in this matter is very simple. To do this, open any image, go to the “Layer” tab, select “Create a new layer”.

Change something in the image. Then follow the above path again, creating a second layer. Also draw something on it. Then go to the same tab again, select the “Merge Layers” command. This is roughly how all the main work in the program is done.

As for the interface, “Photoshop CS6” in Russian appeared not so long ago. If you are looking for tips on working on the Internet, they often offer instructions in English. Keep this in mind!

"Hot keys", or Hotkeys

When using Photoshop regularly, it is very important to remember the most frequently used hotkey combinations. It’s almost impossible to keep all of them in your head all the time, but the most commonly used combinations are essential to know. The fact is that the combinations practically do not change in different versions of the program, so mastering the new release will take much less time.

So, let's look at the simplest options. When you press CTRL+N, a new document opens. It is much easier to press the hotkey than to use the main menu with the mouse. In addition, it will be useful to use the CTRL+O combination, as it allows you to open a dialog box with a choice of files to open. The CTRL+K keys are useful, they open the main program settings. Surely many users know that the combination CTRL+Z cancels the last action. This works in Photoshop too.

Layer Keys

But in this program, working with layers is much more important, so you should remember at least some of the hotkeys associated with this term. So, to create a new level, press SHIFT+CTRL+N. After this, a dialog box with the settings of the newly created layer will immediately open. The F7 button is also important, as it opens the palette settings. To quickly move up a layer, press ALT+]. To move one layer down, use SHIFT+ALT+].

If you want to go to the lowest level, then you need to use the combination SHIFT+ALT+ [. If you need to set the current layer as the main one, press SHIFT+CTRL+]. Merging layers (which we talked about at the very beginning) is done using the CTRL + E buttons. As you can see, hotkeys are extremely important because they save a lot of time.

Using hotkeys when working with filters

Working with filters is quite complicated and time-consuming. Therefore, using hotkeys in this process is also important. Moreover, there are not so many basic combinations. So, if you want to repeat the last used filter with its default settings, press CTRL+F. If you need the same filter, but with open settings, use the CTRL+ALT+F keys.

Not sure how to reset all dialog box settings? Just press ALT together with the ESC key. The beauty of this combination is that it works in exactly the same way across all settings dialogs.

Choosing brushes!

None of the masters or novice users of Photoshop can fully work without the most common tool, the Brush. Today we will try to choose it for work, having learned about ways to adjust the parameters. Using one or another option, you can create a shape that is ideal for your work, dynamically change the size, select dispersion, texture, as well as the degree of pressure and transparency.

First you need to activate the “Brushes” tool for “Photoshop CS6” by pressing the “B” key. Click on the icon we need, where you can adjust all the parameters. You need to press the F5 key on your keyboard or use the “Window” menu, where you can go to the “Brushes” item. It must be said that the menu has enough settings, the main ones of which we will consider.

Before choosing a suitable tool, you need to choose the shape of its imprint. It all depends on the type of work you do. The same can be said about the diameter. There are a lot of options! However, when learning, it is recommended to choose simple brush shapes and an average diameter of its imprint. It should be noted that you can quickly change the last parameter using the “[” (decrease the diameter) or “]” (increase it) keys.

Using the slider called “Hardness” you can adjust the center of rigidity of the tool. To put it simply, with the selected indicator “0” you will get a soft brush. The “Opacity” tab, as you might guess from the name, helps you set a parameter that is often used when retouching photos.

What else should you pay attention to before working in Photoshop CS6? For beginners, it would be a good idea to look at the work of experienced artists and photographers: you can clearly see how and under what conditions it is best to use basic techniques, such as retouching or aging a photograph.

Often, when choosing a brush, its color plays an important role. There is a button on the toolbar (at the very bottom) that allows you to adjust this parameter. It should be noted that when selecting, the active color is the one in which the top square is painted.

Other principles for choosing a brush

However, the choice of brush for Photoshop CS6 is not limited to these parameters. For example, quite often there is a need to change the angle of inclination, which is achieved by adjusting the settings in the dialog box of the same name (if you remember, it is called up by pressing the F5 key). Here you can increase the size of the tool and also change its inclination.

It should be noted that when choosing brushes of an unusual shape (butterfly, star, leaves), it is necessary to set a sufficient interval, since otherwise the image may turn into a graphic “porridge”. By experimenting with different parameters, you will eventually learn to set the optimal ones for each type of work, using hundreds of parameters available in the program.

Naturally, you won’t be able to master Photoshop right away, in one sitting. The program in Russian is the best option for beginners, since you can always read the help by pressing F1.

Plugins

Plugins (also called plug-ins) are additional filters that plug into Photoshop. However, this can also be called some additional software modules that expand the functionality of the application. At their core, plugins for Photoshop CS6 are small additional programs that work inside the main software package.

In Photoshop, they are most often used for advanced imitation of drawing methods; they are often used to reduce noise and improve sharpness; with their help, you can automatically set the focus on some object located in the photograph.

Plugins are most often developed only for a specific version of Photoshop, which often creates a lot of difficulties when migrating to a new release. However, they are very good in that each user will be able to create a unique set of tools suitable specifically for their purposes. In general, Photoshop CS6 is the most suitable option for beginners, since it is more visual and contains more tools by default.

Thus, it is better to focus on the “advanced filters” option. They are also capable of changing the processed image, they can distort it or remove noise and adjust the sharpness correctly.

To install the plugin, you need to download its file from the Internet and then move it to the “Photoshop/Plug-Ins” directory. However, some “serious” applications often have their own installation file. In this case, their installation is extremely simplified: you just need to start the process and follow the instructions. When the installation is complete, the new filters will appear in the program (you may need to restart it).

So, we looked at how to work in Photoshop CS6. For beginners, the information presented is still enough; you need to consolidate your knowledge in practice, and then comprehend all the intricacies of the process.

Some plugins for Photoshop

Let's take a closer look at the purpose of some “helpers” for Adobe Photoshop. For example, the very popular ICOFormat add-on is specially created for saving especially small images up to 200x200 px using the standard .ico extension.

Genuine Fractals Pro can enlarge an image without losing quality. The Blow Up and AKVIS Magnifier add-ons can be used for the same purpose.

The AKVIS Chameleon plugin is ideal for: It allows you to automatically adjust inserted fragments to the color of the main image. In addition, it somewhat blurs the sharp edges, making the collages more “alive.”

In conclusion…

It should be noted that plugins can be distributed not only separately, but also in the form of large thematic packages. Most processes can be significantly accelerated with their help. However, you need to remember that success in using plugins will only come to those who understand the principle of their operation and can do all these operations manually!

These are the short lessons of Photoshop CS6. Master the program in practice, by trial and error - this is the best option.

3 votes

Good day, dear readers. I don’t want to say platitudes, but knowledge of Photoshop opens up incredible opportunities for those who decide to master it. However, in this program, you can do both very cool things and complete trash. It all depends on the learning strategy.

Let me give you a small analogy. Watch this video, at least skip ahead.

It was made in the same program in which Deadpool, Avatar, and any modern film were created. Why did I suddenly remember in the article about photographs? Because we are talking about Adobe products, only in the first case it is Premier Pro, and in the second Photoshop.

In both of these programs you can make cool projects, or you can do what you just saw. And it’s not about the capabilities of the tools we use. Complete slag is being created even now. That’s why, not for the first time, I want to touch on Photoshop for dummies - step-by-step instructions for beginners. I will tell you how to learn to use Photoshop 100%. Shall we get started?

Preparation and what knowledge can give you

Why do you want to learn Photoshop? There can be many answers and only one is worth actually doing it. Now I'm talking about making money on your own skills. If you are thinking about having fun for yourself, then all you have to do is open https://photoshop-master.ru/lessons , choose a level for beginners, “Working with photos” and watch a few videos, you won’t be able to do more. Yes, in principle, it is not necessary.

There are decent video tutorials and text manuals here. Choose what exactly you want to master today and you’re done. Get to know.

But what will you achieve? Entertain yourself with a new hobby, but after a week or two, throw it all away. You will learn some tricks, learn how to implement several effects and that’s it. You won't be able to create anything of your own.

You will miss out on a lot. Meanwhile, such a picture, made in Photoshop for a specific order, costs around 500 - 1,000 rubles in the worst case scenario.

Such a website (this is just a drawing of it) will cost the customer from 5,000 to 10,000 rubles. If we get lucky. Creation time: well, a maximum of a week, and only if you pick your nose most of the time.

It is very difficult to name specific prices and times, since much depends not only on knowledge of the program, but also on the portfolio and the ability to find orders. For example, on this site https://kwork.ru all projects cost 500 rubles.

And on www.weblancer.net prices depend on the project, the generosity of the client and the ability of the contractor to negotiate.

Am I interested in you? Then your preparation is almost complete. I recommend that you somehow focus on the ultimate goal: the desire to earn money. Only thanks to him you will be able not to give up everything at the rudimentary level and actually reach the final.

I don’t know how to help you more specifically... try registering on these sites and viewing orders. You may not know how to do anything yet, but perhaps, seeing prices and what customers want from a designer, you will have an incentive to continue learning. It is important. Support yourself.

It's time to get started

For some simple tasks, even I often use the online version of Photoshop: www.pixlr.com . You can also get acquainted with the program online. It is in Russian, you just need to select the desired language in the language panel.

The version is very stripped down, so I don’t recommend spending more than one or two days on it, although it’s better to immediately download Photoshop from the official website and not bother with unnecessary gestures.

Using the official version of the program has become quite profitable. The developers do not care much about protection from pirates, and in Russia Photoshop can be downloaded for free on every corner.

Naturally, this program is most often filled with viruses, since it is incredibly popular. Think a hundred times before you download. Why be afraid and bother with reinstalling the system when the official website provides the opportunity to use its product for only 300 rubles per month.

Moreover, you are given the opportunity not only to use Photoshop, but also Lightroom. An interesting thing that professional photographers use. But it’s too early to talk about this.

Let's get started

Once you have the program, I recommend downloading the course “100 video lessons to improve your skills” . Don't think, I'm not crazy. I remember that you are newbies. Nevertheless, the first lessons should be interesting for you. If you start learning about tools now, then learning will cause nothing but fatigue and negative emotions. Something else is needed.

Why this course? I recently learned in one of the skill development courses for bloggers an interesting thing that is used by a huge number of “teachers” on the Internet. The author advised that when creating a training video or article, keep silent about any details, thereby motivating readers to leave comments.

Let’s say you “forget” to write how to create a layer, although this is an important detail, or you don’t tell us that you need to use a certain keyboard shortcut somewhere. A beginner will not understand how to perform the trick and will ask at the bottom of the article. This advice caused a wave of negativity in me. It became more clear why the Runet is so... bad.

It became very disappointing for novice users, for whom the authors of publications put a spoke in their wheels. But, back to the course, in addition to the fact that here you will find complete information, it will also be detailed, since the level of “professionalism” among those who want to improve their skills is different.

Here you can easily learn how to work like a professional, see how projects are completed and learn some very cool techniques.

IN "100 Lessons" very clear structure. You can find a lesson on a topic that interests you right now. Today I wanted to process it, tomorrow I started retouching, and on the third day I created a postcard.

There is no need to force yourself and do step by step what you don’t want. The main thing is that learning brings you pleasure and is not associated with torment. It was not a mockery of one's own willpower.

This course will be very useful even for beginners. You will understand a lot and motivate yourself to practice, but without knowing the tools, you will never learn to create something of your own. But you can only work according to specific schemes.

Detailed study and independent work

Along with these lessons, I recommend that you download "Basic course" . From it you will learn what layers are, why this or that tool is needed, what is in all the program panels, and so on. This course, without additional, interesting lessons, will quickly bore you. Only a few will reach the end; it is too much “academic” knowledge to acquire. Just like at school. But you can't do without them.

What distinguishes a specialist from any other person? Everyone faces difficult problems, but a professional always has several ways in his head to solve any problem. This only happens because the specialist has more “unbearably boring” knowledge.

With these two courses you will be able to reach incredible heights. Tired of special features - you entertained yourself with an interesting practical lesson, you feel that you are ready to understand the basics and quickly started doing it. There is no need to go anywhere or look for anything.

Both courses will cost a small amount, but once you pay the money, you'll want to see it all through to make the investment worthwhile. And this will happen after the first project, which you can easily do, the links to which I gave you at the beginning.

OK it's all over Now. If you liked this article, subscribe to the newsletter and learn more about making money on the Internet. I'll tell you how to sell your own services and find the best clients.

I wish you success in your endeavors. Until next time.

This section contains a large collection of free online video Photoshop lessons in Russian. Learning Photoshop (Adobe Photoshop) using video tutorials online is very convenient. To do this, you do not need to download video lessons to your computer or register on the site. Just select the desired category, for example Photoshop for beginners, point to the desired lesson and watch it online. In this case, the lesson can always be paused and, if necessary, repeated after the author. Here you will find lessons on Adobe Photoshop on a variety of topics: video tutorials of Photoshop for beginners, photo processing, working with text, animation in Photoshop, design and drawing, buttons and icons, effects and much more. Some online lessons will have additional materials available that you can download for free. Good luck with your studies!

Total materials: 120
Materials shown: 1-10

How to select an object in a photo using the Pen tool

Here's how to select and cut out an object in a photo using the Pen tool in Adobe Photoshop. During this tutorial we will cut out an object and place it on a different background. Let's open the photos we will work with. Let's convert the background layer to normal, i.e. remove the lock from it. To do this, double-click on the layer name and click on the Ok button in the window that opens. Select the Pen tool. The Pen settings should be “Outlines”, “Pen Tool”...

Vector and raster graphics

This video lesson explains what vector and raster graphics are. At the moment, Adobe Photoshop is one of the most popular and multifunctional graphic editors. Computer graphics are divided into two types - raster and vector. This is based on the fundamental principle of image formation. The basis of a raster image is a dot, or pixel. Those. A raster image consists of many dots, each of which has its own color. To...

RGB, SMYK color schemes

This video is devoted to the issue of Photoshop color schemes - RGB, SMYK, Grayscale, Duplex, Indexed Colors, Lab mode. A color scheme is a specific set of basic colors. As a result of mixing them, you can get any other color. The RGB color scheme consists of three basic colors: red, green and blue. The name comes from the first three letters Red, Green, Blue. This mode is most often used when working in Photoshop. Let's see what colors look like in RGB. Let's take...

How to remove wrinkles and rejuvenate facial skin in Photoshop

This video tutorial talks about how to remove wrinkles and rejuvenate facial skin in Photoshop. The main tool that we will use to rejuvenate facial skin is called a Patch. Let's select it and start removing wrinkles under the eyes of the woman shown in the photo. To do this, the area with wrinkles needs to be circled and the resulting selection transferred to an area of skin that does not have wrinkles. This way, the area of skin with wrinkles will be replaced with smooth skin. So that everything done...

How to remove glare and oily shine from facial skin in a photo

This video is devoted to the question of how to remove glare and oily shine from facial skin in a photograph in Photoshop. We will do this using the Brush tool and editing tools. Select Brush, set the hardness to 0, i.e. it should be with the most blurred boundaries. The size of the brush should be specified depending on the size of the highlight. The mode should be set to Multiply or Base Darkening. It depends on the photo being processed, and here you can experiment and...

How to change hair color in Photoshop from blonde to brunette

This online lesson is devoted to the question of how to change hair color in Photoshop from blonde to brunette. Those. Now we will change the light hair to dark hair in the photo of the girl using Adobe Photoshop. In general, dyeing your hair from light to dark is much easier than vice versa. Let's highlight the hair in the photo using a quick mask. Click on the corresponding button at the bottom of the toolbar. Now we’ll paint our hair with a black brush, and we can erase it with white...

How to Add Color to a Black and White Photo

The video “How to add color to a black and white photo” is devoted to the question of how to turn a black and white photo into color. There are several ways to color black and white images. In this video tutorial we will look at the method of coloring through color correction using adjustment layers and, secondly, using various blending modes. For painting, you need to use more subdued and subdued colors, because... they will look more natural. For different areas of the image...

Making the effect of an old photograph in Photoshop

The video lesson “Creating the effect of an old photograph in Photoshop” is devoted to the question of how to give an ordinary photograph the effect of old age. There are several images in the supplementary materials that you may find useful to help you complete this lesson. You can download them. So, let's begin. Open the photo you want to apply a similar effect to. Duplicate the layer and make it black and white through the menu Image - Corrections - Desaturate. Let's make a copy of this layer and apply the Gaussian Blur filter...

Yes. This video course can be watched both on Windows and OS X (Mac OS), as well as on any other systems that have a web browser and support for the MP4 video format.

Who should I contact if I have questions about the course?

After payment, you will have access to the online platform where you can watch this training material and ask any questions you have in the comments under the lesson.

Do I need to activate the course before watching?

The course works immediately. You don't need any keys or activation codes. You can watch the course on as many computers as you like.

Is there a disk version of the course?

We have abandoned disks in favor of flash drives; you can order the course on a flash drive with delivery by mail.

Can I place an order today and pay later?

Yes it is possible. Just start placing your order, after the cart you will see a link “Save the order in your personal account, I will pay for it later.” Watch video instructions:

Where to download and how to install Photoshop?

What is the difference between “Photoshop for Dummies, 57 Practical Lessons” and “Photoshop from Scratch in Video Format 3.0”?

The course “Photoshop for Dummies, 57 Practical Lessons” does not contain a detailed description of the tools and commands of the Adobe Photoshop program. Here are presented only practical lessons in various areas: restoration and retouching of photographs, creating collages and photo design, drawing, design, creating textures and text effects.

What version of Photoshop are the course lessons recorded in?

Some of the lessons are recorded using CS6, and most are in versions SS 2014, SS 2015.

I'm not from Russia, can I buy the course?

Yes, sure. Available payment methods for you: Visa/MasterCard/Maestro cards, Yandex.Money, RBK Money, WebMoney, QIWI, Money transfers, Paypal. After payment, you will receive a letter with a link to download the course to your computer, but if you selected delivery on a flash drive during registration, then in addition to this letter we will send you the course on a flash drive by airmail.

I didn't find the answer to my question. What should I do?

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