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TRACK 1: Photoshop Basics
Session 1A: Photoshop and Your Computer--
Fine-Tuning Your System
Your Instructor: Debbie Berg

Don’t just dive in and start using Photoshop right away.
Photoshop is a very powerful image editing program. Eventhough this program will do a lot for you, there are hardware and software considerations that you’ll need to make first, because there are settings that you’ll need to apply yourself. Otherwise, you could be missing out on the FULL POWER of Photoshop!

WHICH PLATFORM IS BEST???
Mac or PC

HARDWARE CONSIDERATIONS
-Hard Disk Space
-Memory (RAM)

SET THE RAM ALLOCATION
-Windows
-Macintosh

SET THE RAM ALLOCATION
You will need lots of disk space available to Photoshop because of the way Photoshop uses memory.

HARDWARE CONSIDERATIONS
1,024 kilobytes = 1 megabyte
1,024 megabytes = 1 gigabyte

HARDWARE CONSIDERATIONS
-Scratch Disk Space
-Virtual Memory

Another key step to take to get the most out of Photoshop:
CALIBRATION (defined)
-To adjust for the color displays of the scanner, monitor or printer

THREE STEPS TO WORKING WITH COLOR
-Monitor Calibration
-Adobe Gamma

-turn on monitor ½ hour to stabilize
-set room lighting
-change Desktop color

Page 6
THREE STEPS TO WORKING WITH COLOR
1 Color Calibration

2 RGB Setup (lets you confirm that you’ve correctly identified your monitor and specifies the RGB space that you want PS to simulate)

3 Profile Setup

(lets you specify how Photoshop uses ICC profiles (color space definitions) when opening and saving files).

sRGB: standard RGB (the universal monitor color space to describe generic low-end PC monitors [how a PC deals with color]. It’s becoming cross platform. Developed by Microsoft, Pantone, Hewlett Packard, etc.

page 7
SOFTWARE CONSIDERATIONS
Set your preferences
-saving files (image previews, file ext., uncheck "INCL. COMP. IMG")
-display and cursors (precise, brush size, VIDEO LUT off)

VIDEO LUT ANIMATION: PS can generate a faster preview in LEVELS than using the normal preview. You’ll get a more accurate histogram result if it’s turned OFF. But some video drivers don’t support this, and it will only work if your monitor is set to 256 colors.

-plug-ins and scratch disks (just go over options)

WORKING EFFICIENTLY
-Work in low resolution first
-Use drag and drop (leaf.psd)
-Use purge

WORKING EFFICIENTLY
-Turn off palette previews or use small previews (layers, channels)
-Reduce the use of history palette (also PURGE history states)
-Apply a filter to each channel separately

WORKING EFFICIENTLY
-Turn off virtual memory
-Set the image cache
(speeds up operations at reduced sizes on-screen in RAM)

100%
50%
25%
12.5%

-LOTS OF RAM, 20MB FILES: cache level=8
-LITTLE RAM (16MB or less), 4MB FILES: cache level=2
-UNDER 10MB FILES: cache level=2-3
-10MB FILES: cache level=4

UNCHECK use cache for histograms for complete & consistent readings

ADOBE ONLINE
http://www.adobe.com

PHOTOSHOP CONFERENCE
TRACK 1: Photoshop Basics
Session 1B: Essential Photoshop Tools, Tips and Shortcuts
Your Instructor: Debbie Berg

Mouse vs. Keyboard shortcuts
File…New
Select…All
Edit…Fill
Select…Deselect
File…Save
File…Close

Page 8
WORK FASTER USING SHORTCUTS
Toolbox Shortcuts
-press TAB to hide/show palettes
-go over keyboard letter shortcuts for tools
-press SHIFT + KEY to toggle tools (ex: marquee tool)
-press RETURN to show options palette for selected tool
-show how to set foreground/background colors on toolbar (D, X)

WORK FASTER USING SHORTCUTS
Palette Shortcuts
-pressing RETURN on selected tool on toolbar will activate OPTIONS palette
-F5 brushes palette
-F6 color palette
-F7 layers palette
-F8 info palette
-F9 actions palette
*REMEMBER PRESSING TAB WILL HIDE ALL VISIBLE PALETTES

Work more quickly and easily by customizing your palettes…
-double click palette name to collapse to a smaller size
-double click on a palette name to collapse to a smaller size
-set palettes to defaults thru RESET TOOLS option on fly-out menu
-position palettes where you want them and PS will remember
-click and drag to combine palettes
*press ALT/OPTION in dialogue boxes to reset to DEFAULTS

ctrl + r = show rulers
ctrl + semi-colon = show/hide guides

simple techniques for navigation, zooming and scrolling….
Page 8 middle

WORK FASTER USING SHORTCUTS
Viewing Shortcuts
-cmd/cntrl/spacebar = zoom tool
-cmd/cntrl/spacebar/option/alt = zoom out
-cmd/cntrl/- = zoom out
-cmd/cntrl/drag over area in NAVIGATOR palette to zoom in on specific area
-spacebar = hand tool to scroll image window
-cntrl/alt/minus = zoom out and change window size to fit

Page 9, bottom
Context-Sensitive Menus
*WINDOWS: right click mouse to see options for current tool
*MAC: cntrl + click/hold mouse to see options for current tool

-press the # to adjust opacity, pressure and exposure on palettes:

-RUBBER STAMP
-BLUR
-ERASER
-SHARPEN

F9
USE THE ACTIONS PALETTE
Record and playback a Photoshop operation
-It's like a "macro"
-you can now define your own keyboard shortcuts
-you can record an entire sequence of commands and operations as a script

Make a THUMBNAIL:
-press F9
-Create a new set
-Name set: thumbnail
-Press CREATE NEW ACTION button
-Give action a name: thumbnail
-Set a function key: F6
-Set a color
-Press RECORD
-Image…Image Size
-Set new size to 75 pixels
Filter…Sharpen…Unsharp Mask
-80%
-File…Save As…JPG (save to desktop)
-Close the file
-Press STOP button

FORCE PHOTOSHOP TO RECORD A COMMAND:
Insert Menu Item
Ex: force PS to record Show Rulers

INSERT A STOP TO CHECK ON PROGRESSION OF ACTION:

ACTIONS FOLDER EX:

BATCH PROCESS THE THUMBNAIL ACTION (SCRIPT):
-Gather images to apply script to
-Create another folder where altered images will reside
-Select script to apply
-File…Automate…Batch
-Choose a SOURCE folder
-Choose a DESTINATION folder

Crank up batch processing speed:
-Turn down image cache level to 1
-Turn off HISTORY palette’s automatic snapshot feature

USE THE HISTORY PALETTE
We can finally perform "multiple undos!!!"
WARNING: Uses LOTS of RAM
Records each significant event as an independent state
*set number of undos to 5-10 when using less than 32MB RAM

GO THRU AN EXAMPLE WITH ROCK.TIF file:
-downsize image to 200 pixels wide
-adjust levels
-sharpen image to 80%
-add border around image
-increase canvas size
-You can click on each state in palette to go thru events
-If you want to start from beginning: click on first state
-If you want to undo image resize: click on that state and delete it
*this will also delete all other states after image resize!

CLEAR/PURGE HISTORY EVERY SO OFTEN TO FREE UP RAM!
*ALLOW NON-LINEAR HISTORY: undone states no longer drop off the list when you perform a new operation

(undone state: when you revert to a state by clicking on it, every subsequent state turns gray to show that it’s been undone. If you perform a new operation, grayed states are gone)

CUSTOMIZE, CUSTOMIZE
Preferences
-saving files (image previews, file ext., uncheck "INCL. COMP. IMG")
-display and cursors (precise, brush size, VIDEO LUT off)

VIDEO LUT ANIMATION: PS can generate a faster preview in LEVELS than using the normal preview. You’ll get a more accurate histogram result if it’s turned OFF. But some video drivers don’t support this, and it will only work if your monitor is set to 256 colors.

-units and rulers
-plug ins and scratch disk
-memory and image cache

EASY WAYS TO RESIZE IMAGES
1. image…image size
-use to change the pixel dimensions of your image
-resize: change the physical size without changing the # of pixels

-(when resizing an image with RESAMPLE not checked, the image may print at a different size than show/specified on-screen. The on-screen image will not be changed though)

resample: scaling it so the image contains a different # of pixels

2. use the CROP tool
-clips away pixels around the edges of an image w/out harming remaining pixels
-ALT + drag handle = resize boundary proportionately

3. use the CANVAS option
-you can scale the imaginary canvas on which the image rests
*good for cropping out small parts of an image

 CHOOSE THE BEST RESOLUTION
Choose the resolution based on your end result

CHOOSE THE BEST RESOLUTION
Set the resolution value to somewhere between 150% and 200% of the screen frequency of the final output device

WHAT’S SCREEN FREQUENCY???
-The number of halftone dots per linear inch, measured in lpi (lines per inch)
-Multiply screen frequency by 1.5 or 2
-The most common screen frequency: 133 lpi

PHOTOSHOP CONFERENCE
TRACK 1: Photoshop Basics
Session 1C: Understanding the Basics
of Digital Images
Your Instructor: Debbie Berg

Digital images are described using small squares called pixels. This is what makes up an image.

Page 10
HOW IMAGES WORK
-Pixel=Picture Element
-Bitmapped images are a series of pixels (dots) that come together to form an image
-Zoom in and out of an image to see pixels

 HOW IMAGES WORK
-Bitmapped images CANNOT be enlarged!!!
-Show example of why images can’t be enlarged (fox.psd: enlarge to 975)
-Vector images are made up of mathematically defined shapes and lines
-Vector images look good at any shape or size!

 BITMAP VS. VECTOR:
-Bitmap images are larger than vector images
-Resolution is KEY for quality of bitmaps
-Resolution does NOT matter for quality of vector images

Page 11
WORKING WITH IMAGES
-Create a NEW file
-You can use the NEW dialogue box to create a brand new, customized image. You should choose the appropriate resolution based on your end result (the output), or on the amount of editing you need to do.

Many factor affect file size:

 WHAT AFFECTS FILE SIZE??
-Width and Height
-Resolution
-Color Depth and Mode
-Use the NEW dialogue box to determine the file size

 CHOOSE THE BEST RESOLUTION
-Choose the resolution based on your end result
-Set the resolution value to somewhere between 150% and 200% of the screen frequency of the final output device

 WHAT’S SCREEN FREQUENCY??
-The number of halftone dots per linear inch, measured in lpi (lines per inch)
-Multiply screen frequency by 1.5 or 2
-The most common screen frequency: 133 lpi
-The amount of color (bit depth) affects an image’s file size

 NEW dialogue box and menu command
WORKING WITH COLOR
-RGB (larger than grayscale and indexed color)
-Indexed Color
-CMYK (larger than RGB)
-Grayscale (larger than bitmap)
-Bitmap

EACH IMAGE IS MADE UP OF BITS
-1 bit image: 2 colors (B/W)
-2 bit image: 4 colors
-8 bit image: 256 colors
-24 bit image: 16 million colors
-fox.psd

WORKING WITH IMAGES
-Make an image smaller
-Change the color mode
-Change the resolution

Quick tips for adjusting image size
Keep physical size the same, but lower the resolution:

1. Scan an image at a high resolution 1st for retouching purposes, then lower the resolution after the image looks the way you want it
(reduce image from 300ppi to 120ppi)

2. CHECK OFF RESAMPLE IMAGE checkbox to keep the physical size the same, but lower the resolution

Resize image to a larger physical size and change the resolution:
1. Scan an image that is 2 inches by 1 inch at 300ppi. Then resize the image to a larger physical size.

2. UNCHECK RESAMPLE IMAGE checkbox to resize the physical size, and the resolution will automatically adjust.

3. Increase the WIDTH to 5 inches by 2.5 inches. This drops the resolution to 120ppi

BONUS TIP:
You can downsize an image to match the size and resolution of any other image. Choose the name of the image you want to match from the IMAGE SIZE dialogue box.

ADJUSTING AN IMAGE BY PERCENT
-Downsize an image by percent to smooth away photo grain and other scanning artifacts
-Scan at a maximum resolution that you’re scanner will allow then size down to 72% or 46%
*By selecting a round percentage other than 50%, you force Photoshop to jumble the pixels into a smooth image at a smaller size

USE IMAGE RESIZE WIZARD FOR HELP TO RESIZE AN IMAGE
-Help…Resize Image
-Let Photoshop walk you through the steps of resizing an image

PHOTOSHOP CONFERENCE
TRACK 1: Photoshop Basics
Session 1D: How to Scan it Right Every Time
Your Instructor: Debbie Berg

By running some tests on your scanner FIRST, you can avoid trouble spots on your scanner, determine the accuracy of tone and color, and above all-produce TOP QUALITY SCANS!!

SCANNER TYPES
-Flatbed/Desktop Scanner
-Film/Slide Scanner
-Drum Scanner

Testing is the first key to success in scanning
TESTING YOUR SCANNER
-Warm up your scanner
-Test the highlights and shadows
-Scan a grayscale bar
(a dark scan of a grayscale bar is examined to see how many shades are accurately represented)
-USE A GRAYSCALE BAR

TEST THE TONAL RESOLUTION
(a dark scan of a grayscale bar is examined to see how many shades are distinguishable)
-Scan as grayscale at 150 ppi
-Sharpen the image
-Set gamma at 2.2
-Adjust brightness and contrast
-Image…Adjust…Levels
LEVELS DIALOGUE BOX:
-Drag the highlight slider left
-See if scanner can distinguish all gray levels

TEST FOR COLOR CASTS
To ensure that the scanner does not create an unwanted color cast:

1. Create a file in Adobe Photoshop containing an 11-step gray wedge. (Or use an 8-inch by 10-inch, 18 percent neutral gray card and an 11-step gray wedge purchased from a photographic supply store for this test.)

2. Print the file, and then scan the printed output back into Adobe Photoshop in the RGB or CMYK mode.

3. Sample the grays in the image to see whether they contain any hue or color tint by using the Info palette and the eyedropper tool. If the grays contain a hue or color tint, then the scanner is adding a color cast.

4. Eliminate the color cast with the Adobe Photoshop Levels controls and record the resulting gamma and the white-and-black point settings.

5. Use the values recorded in step 4 to compensate for the color cast by using the controls (or plug- in module) provided with your scanner. Rescan the gray wedge to verify that the cast has been removed

 Page 12, middle
TESTING YOUR SCANNER
-Scan a pure white piece of paper
-Test the "sweet spot"

Page13, top
Resolution is the second key to success in scanning

STEPS TO A TOP QUALITY SCAN
-Choose the ideal resolution

WHAT’S RESOLUTION?
-A grid of dots (pixels) that are assigned or mapped to a given space, measured in linear inches

Page 13, middle
STEPS TO A TOP QUALITY SCAN
-Internet, Powerpoint: 72ppi
-Inkjet Printer, Color Copier: test
-Printing Press: double the line screen

WHAT’S THE LINE SCREEN?
-The number of halftone dots per linear inch, measured in lpi (lines per inch)
-Most printers use 120 lpi-150 lpi
-Common Line Screen: 133 lpi
-Set the resolution value to somewhere between 150% and 200% of the screen frequency of the final output device.
-200% MAXIMUM (150% usually works best)

Page 13, bottom
STEPS TO A TOP QUALITY SCAN
Use the NEW dialogue box and the IMAGE SIZE command as a calculator (this method works well for older scanners)

(to determine the final file size and resolution AFTER resizing)
-File…New
-Enter the FINISHED/FINAL file size and resolution
-Choose GRAYSCALE for color mode
-Image…Image Size
PRINT SIZE:
-Change the WIDTH and HEIGHT to the originally scanned in file size
- RESOLUTION will also change (this is the RES to use for scanning)
-(ORIGINAL size is LOWER than FINAL size=scan at a low res)

(1) WIDTH: 7
HEIGHT: 14
RESOLUTION: 114 (this will change automatically)

(2) WIDTH: 1.25
HEIGHT: 2.5
RESOLUTION: 638.4 (this will change automatically)

STEPS TO A TOP QUALITY SCAN
-Line Art: scan as high as possible
-Line Art: scan as grayscale

SCAN LINE ART AS GRAYSCALE
-Double the resolution
-Sharpen the image
-Image…Adjust…Threshold
-Image…Mode…Bitmap

STEPS TO A TOP QUALITY SCAN
Place a piece of black cardboard over your image when scanning

Source: These lessons were developed especially for YOU by Debbie Berg :-)

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