How do I Learn Photoshop on a Mac?

You can digitally restore old worn photographs using Photoshop.

Adobe Photoshop is a software tool that graphic designers use to creatively edit, touch up and modify regular photos and digital images. The software is available for both PC and Mac platforms. The Photoshop tools can also be used by desktop publishing enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys photographic arts. Photoshop skills are taught in college courses for those majoring in graphic design, typically on a Mac computer, but a variety of tutorials and books are also available to anyone looking to learn how to use the software on their Macs.

Instructions

1. Obtain the latest version of Adobe Photoshop for Mac. This software can be purchased directly and downloaded from Adobe via the website, or you can purchase Photoshop at many stores where computer applications are sold, such as Office Depot and Office Max, and where photography equipment is sold.

2. Read through the instruction guide, and the "Help" after installing the program. These guides will give you basic information on common Photoshop usage and commands to use. This is especially helpful if you're new to using a Mac platform.

3. Download instructional tutorials from Adobe or from other websites, such as PhotoshopSupport.com.These tutorials will help you to learn the shortcut commands with a Mac for Photoshop using the Control, Option and Apple keys combined with different characters.

4. Purchase a Photoshop for Mac bible or textbook. These are typically available at most large bookstores, or you can order them from Adobe or other book selling websites. Select the book that corresponds to your specific version of Photoshop. These books have listings of all known commands, procedures and step-by-step instruction on how to use the Photoshop software with Mac computers.

5. Sign up for a Photoshop class in your area if available. Many communities offer photography and digital art seminars and workshops, and they may have a Photoshop class for Mac platforms available for you to attend. These classes and workshops are typically held at public schools or college campuses when regular classes aren't in session, or at local community and activity centers.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider taking a college course in graphic design, or major in graphic design while in college to learn the ins and outs of Photoshop.

• If you've never used a Mac before, you may want to get used to the computer and its general operations before attempting to learn a software program. Going from a PC to a Mac can be a bit confusing at first.

References

• Learn Photoshop Tutorials:
• CNET: Learning Photoshop
• Ken Rockwell: How to Use Photoshop
• Photoshop Support: Tutorials
• Adobe: Photoshop CS5

Resources

• Atomic Learning: Photoshop for Mac