Adobe Photoshop is a globally recognized software, shaping industries from Hollywood to internet culture with its powerful image editing capabilities.
Image via stipan93
Despite its accessibility efforts, Photoshop remains complex for some. However, anyone can master it without being a design guru. These six free or budget-friendly resources will guide you from basics to advanced manipulations. They include:
- Adobe
- Tuts+
- Photoshop Cafe
- Lynda
- Digital Tutors
- Udemy
Let’s explore each resource:
Free Photoshop Learning Resources
1. Adobe’s Learning Hub
Who knows Photoshop better than its creator? learning resources on the Adobe site is your ideal starting point.
Adobe categorizes tutorials by skill level. Beginners can start with an overview before diving into intermediate techniques through concise videos. These cover masking, color correction, cropping, vector tools, and layer manipulation. Once comfortable, explore project-based tutorials for a complete workflow understanding. BONUS: For a deeper dive, try this free 13-hour introductory course - a comprehensive beginner’s guide.
2. Tuts+
Next is the Tuts+ network of learning sites, offering a vast collection of free tutorials alongside its paid content.
Instead of long projects, Tuts+ provides focused lessons on specific techniques. Beyond brushes, color, and typography, it delves into digital imaging basics like file types and compression - invaluable for beginners.
3. Photoshop Cafe
Photoshop Cafe is another great source with plenty of free tutorials despite promoting its products.
While some tutorials overlap with other platforms, Photoshop Cafe stands out with its simple language, perfect for beginners. It also offers helpful visual guides for complex topics like alpha channels and task automation using actions.
Paid Photoshop Learning Resources
4. Lynda.com
Lynda.com boasts some of the best video tutorials, perfect for serious learners.
Led by top digital artists, Lynda.com covers diverse topics with exceptional depth. As expected from a leading platform, it excels in project-based tutorials, ideal for intermediate users seeking advancement. Starting at $25/month, it offers flexible subscription options. Higher tiers unlock project files and offline viewing.
5. Digital Tutors
For mastering advanced tools and techniques, Digital Tutors is unmatched.
Targeting aspiring entertainment industry professionals, it boasts an extensive library covering everything from digital painting to concept art. Digital Tutors also shines in showcasing Photoshop’s role within a broader creative workflow, often integrating it with software like After Effects, highlighting its versatility and indispensability for professionals. For $29/month, access over 2,000 courses, track your progress, and enjoy daily new content.
6. Udemy
While Udemy offers various Photoshop classes, Manfred Werner’s course stands out as a top choice.
This comprehensive course spans 33 hours across 153 lectures, making it one of the most thorough available. For a one-time fee of $19, gain lifetime access, turning it into a valuable reference resource.
That concludes our roundup of Photoshop resources. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, these resources offer valuable insights and techniques to elevate your skills. SEE ALSO: The 21 Best Productivity Tools