How to Install Plugins for Photoshop

Although Adobe Photoshop is powerful, the programmers are not able to include all of the features available to the market. In order to customize the productivity of Photoshop, users can install plug-ins. Plug-ins or filters are mini-programs that automatically apply effects to an image. Adobe comes preloaded with a few plug-ins. Additional plug-ins are easy to download and install.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Download the plug-in. Adobe has a site that provides plug-ins. Select "Filter," then choose "Browse Filters Online." Click on a plug-in to install. You can also download third-party plug-ins. Make sure that you download the plug-ins from a trusted site.

2. Install the plug-in using the provided installer. Some plug-ins provide installation instructions and wizards. If this is the case, follow the onscreen instructions to install the plug-in.

3. 
    

   Many plug-ins only provide the plug-in file. If this is the case, you will need to move the file to the plug-in directory. For windows, double-click on "My Computer" and open "Program Files," "Adobe," "Adobe Photoshop" then "Plug-Ins." For Mac, click on "Finder" and open "Applications," "Adobe Photoshop" then "Plug-Ins." Drag the plug-in to this folder.

4. 
    

   Close and then restart Photoshop. Photoshop will not be able to recognize the new plug-in until it is restarted. Select "Filter" and you should see the new plug-in.

Tips & Warnings

• You can add a filter folder location in the plug-in preferences.

Resources

• Adobe Photoshop & Photoshop Elements Tips: How to Install Plug-In Filters in Photoshop