Adobe Photoshop Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Adobe Photoshop

Objective: Understand the basics of Adobe Photoshop, its interface, and tools.

1. What is Adobe Photoshop?

   • Overview of Photoshop and its applications (photo editing, graphic design, digital art)
   • Differences between Photoshop and other image editing software
   • Photoshop workspace and interface: menus, panels, toolbars

2. Setting Up Photoshop

   • How to install and configure Photoshop
   • Understanding preferences and workspace customization
   • Opening, saving, and exporting files (PSD, JPEG, PNG, TIFF)

3. Understanding Image Resolution and Canvas Size

   • DPI (dots per inch) vs. PPI (pixels per inch)
   • Resolution and its impact on print and web images
   • Changing image size, canvas size, and cropping images

Module 2: Basic Tools and Functions

Objective: Learn the fundamental tools and techniques for basic image manipulation.

1. Selection Tools

   • Marquee tools (Rectangular, Elliptical)
   • Lasso tools (Freehand, Polygonal, Magnetic)
   • Quick Selection and Magic Wand tools

2. Brushes and Drawing Tools

   • Using the Brush tool and customizing brushes
   • Pencil tool, Line tool, Shape tools (rectangle, ellipse, etc.)
   • Creating and editing paths with the Pen tool

3. Editing and Retouching Tools

   • Clone Stamp tool and Healing Brush
   • Spot Healing Brush and Content-Aware tools
   • Red-eye Removal and Patch tool

4. Navigating and Zooming in Photoshop

   • Using Hand and Zoom tools
   • Shortcut keys for navigation
   • Working with multiple documents (tabbed interface)

Module 3: Layers and Masks

Objective: Master the use of layers, layer styles, and masks for non-destructive editing.

1. Introduction to Layers

   • What are layers and why they are important
   • Creating, deleting, and organizing layers
   • Layer types: Background, Normal, Adjustment, Shape, Text

2. Layer Styles and Effects

   • Applying Layer Styles (Drop shadow, Outer glow, etc.)
   • Layer blending modes and opacity
   • Using smart objects for non-destructive editing

3. Working with Layer Masks

   • Introduction to masks and their purpose
   • Creating and editing layer masks
   • Using brushes on masks for selective hiding or revealing

4. Adjustment Layers

   • Using adjustment layers for color correction (Brightness/Contrast, Levels, Curves, etc.)
   • Non-destructive editing with adjustment layers
   • Working with Gradient Maps and Selective Color

Module 4: Image Editing and Manipulation

Objective: Learn advanced techniques for editing, retouching, and manipulating images.

1. Photo Retouching Techniques

   • Removing blemishes and imperfections
   • Smoothing skin tones and enhancing facial features
   • Color correction using the Adjustment Layers

2. Working with Selections and Masks

   • Advanced selection techniques (Refine Edge, Quick Mask mode)
   • Feathering and expanding selections
   • Creating and refining masks for better accuracy

3. Compositing and Photo Manipulation

   • Combining multiple images into one (Layer Masking, Clipping Masks)
   • Blending images seamlessly with layer effects and masks
   • Creating realistic shadows and reflections

4. Using the Content-Aware Tools

   • Content-Aware Fill for removing unwanted elements
   • Content-Aware Move and Patch tools for advanced retouching

Module 5: Working with Text and Graphics

Objective: Learn to incorporate text and vector graphics into your projects.

1. Adding and Editing Text

   • Creating and formatting text (Font, size, color, alignment)
   • Working with text layers and paths
   • Text effects: adding styles and layer effects to text

2. Vector Tools and Shapes

   • Using the Shape tools to create vector elements
   • Creating custom vector paths with the Pen tool
   • Editing and combining vector shapes (Union, Subtract, Intersect)

3. Advanced Text Effects

   • Warping and distorting text
   • Applying gradients, patterns, and textures to text
   • Creating 3D text and effects

4. Using Smart Objects for Text and Graphics

   • Importing and converting text into Smart Objects
   • Working with vector Smart Objects (Illustrator files)
   • Non-destructive scaling and editing of text layers

Module 6: Color Correction and Enhancement

Objective: Understand how to correct and enhance color in your images for a professional look.

1. Basic Color Correction

   • Adjusting color balance (Hue/Saturation, Vibrance)
   • Fixing white balance and exposure issues
   • Using Levels and Curves for precise color correction

2. Advanced Color Grading Techniques

   • Working with the Selective Color tool
   • Applying Gradient Maps and Color Lookup
   • Creating cinematic looks with color grading filters

3. Sharpening and Smoothing

   • Understanding sharpening techniques (Unsharp Mask, Smart Sharpen)
   • Reducing noise and grain in images
   • Smoothing skin textures while retaining details

4. Working with Filters

   • Using built-in filters for artistic effects (Oil Paint, Lens Blur, etc.)
   • Applying custom filter effects and textures
   • Creating and saving custom filter presets

Module 7: Advanced Techniques and Special Effects

Objective: Explore advanced techniques and creative effects to push your skills further.

1. Advanced Selection and Masking Techniques

   • Using the Select and Mask workspace for complex selections
   • Refining hair, fur, and detailed edges
   • Masking with gradient overlays for smooth transitions

2. Working with 3D in Photoshop

   • Introduction to 3D tools in Photoshop
   • Creating and editing 3D objects and text
   • Adding lighting, shadows, and textures to 3D layers

3. Special Effects and Creative Editing

   • Creating light effects, glows, and flares
   • Working with motion blur and radial blur for dynamic effects
   • Creating surreal image compositions (combining multiple elements creatively)

4. Action Scripts and Automation

   • Using Actions to automate repetitive tasks
   • Recording, saving, and applying Actions
   • Batch processing images for efficiency

Module 8: Preparing and Exporting Your Work

Objective: Learn how to export and save your images for different uses.

1. Exporting Images for Print

   • Understanding print resolutions and formats (TIFF, PDF, PNG)
   • Color modes (RGB vs. CMYK) and their impact on print output
   • Preparing files for professional printing (bleed, crop marks)

2. Exporting Images for Web

   • Optimizing images for web (JPEG, PNG, GIF)
   • Understanding web resolutions and file sizes
   • Using the Save for Web feature in Photoshop

3. Creating PSD Templates

   • Saving and organizing projects for future edits
   • Creating and using Photoshop templates (for web, print, etc.)
   • Preserving layers, masks, and adjustment layers in PSD files

4. Printing and Sharing

   • Printing directly from Photoshop
   • Sharing your work through social media and online platforms
   • Creating contact sheets and galleries

Course Outcome

By the end of this course, you will:

• Master the essential tools and techniques for image editing and graphic design in Photoshop
• Be proficient in advanced image manipulation, retouching, and compositing
• Understand how to enhance, correct, and modify colors and textures for professional results
• Have the skills to create stunning visuals, digital art, and web-ready images
• Be able to prepare files for both digital and print media

Target Audience:
This course is ideal for beginners, aspiring photographers, designers, digital artists, and anyone who wants to learn Photoshop for creative projects, photo retouching, and graphic design. Whether you are looking to enhance your personal skills or pursue a career in digital design, this course provides the foundational and advanced knowledge you need.