Photo Editing Basic's

[dicklaxt]

I know there is an active post about this but I need to get some recommendations on just what and where to start.

I'm not a computer guru and don't know all the terms which is my big issue and this of course causes many stumbling blocks if you will,I then become frustrated with it all and go looking for an easier piece of software.

I need a photo editor that has instructions like ,Put Tab "A" in Slot "B",bend over to Position "C" and you have finished Product "D"

Now with those parameters in mind what is out there I can download?It would be nice if it came with an instructor with a ball bat that could get me channeled in the right direction when I stumble.

dick

[dkippen]

Dick - if you're looking for free, I think Gimp and Picasso might fit your needs. I believe Gary uses Gimp and loves it. Do you have something that you are currently using or installed on your computer? If so, try typing in "name of software", then "tutorial" and you might get some pretty tutorials or instruction. I personally use Photoshop Elements and Photoshop. Elements is geared towards a "beginner" or "home user" and is pretty good.

[LensBaby]

I agree with Debbie. Elements is much easier to learn, and is great for somebody just starting out. If you get into the full photoshop program you might be agitated a little bit. Start with elements and then after you learn that if you need or want to go on to the larger Photoshop programs you can.

I have also heard that Gimp is very good and easy to understand.

[dkippen]

With full Photoshop, there is a much larger learning curve and can be frustrating to learn. It is such a powerful program and unfortunately, it comes with a steep price tag.

[LensBaby]

Yes it is a lot of $$$$$$$$$.

Some people think that they can "get it" off of the internet, but I will tell you something about that. Not only is it illegal, BUT this is the kicker......

If you submit your photo for school (a university etc) or it is chosen as a winner for a BIG prize etc, and photoshop was used - you must show proof that your photoshop is yours. The university that I attend will check and make sure it is a valid and LEGAL copy.

Just a little FYI for anybody that might want to know.

[dallasm]

I use Adobe Lightroom 2, very easy to use, it is also used by many professional photographers. There is a free 30 day trial download from Adobe. Try it out you will find it very user friendly.
There is helpful information on Adobes web site or some good books also.
I figured alot of it out by experimenting and playing around with it.
Dallas

[reval8r]

I was reading an article in this month's Layers Magazine and found out that Photo Shop has one of the highest drop out rates of any software. I was really surprised that people spend that much money for PS and then stop using it because of the high frustration level.

It's taken me a while, but I use PS for probably 99% of all my post work now. It took a few months to really convert from Paint Shop Pro. I still like PSP, it does many of the things that PS does, but I think is much easier for the newbie not to mention it's about 1/10 of the price.