Photoshop: The Basics

Are you just starting out on Photoshop? Do you have absolutely no idea where to begin? I was exactly where you were not too long ago. After hours of research and exploring Photoshop I've finally got a strong grasp and you can too! In this first tutorial, you'll learn the basics of Photoshop. You'll be a pro in no time!

First, I'd like for you to open up Photoshop and start with a blank canvas. To do that you must go to file. From file you go to new and then create a new image. It'll offer you the option to make the image a preferred size. If you make a mistake, much like many other programs you can go to the top at "edit" and it'll offer you the option to undo the last thing that you did. 

The best thing you can do as a graphic artist is create intricate art in layers. To work in layers, there is a section on the right side of your Photoshop window that's dedicated to them. You click the "new layer" option. This will help in the long run if you want to take something out of the image. 

If you would like to edit a certain section of the image you use the rectangle selection tool. After selecting it, do whatever you would like to edit that specific selection. Do you know how to select a color? Well, if you don't-I can help you. On the right side there is a box that has two boxes with colors in them. The one box that is the top is black. The other one below that is white. Click on one of them and a chart of colors will pop up. You can select from there. If you want to switch between whatever color is in either the top box or the bottom box, just click the arrows and they'll switch. The top box will be the color that you're using. Another thing that you can do to make your life easier is fill in an area with the preferred color with just one click. On the left side of the screen there will be a bucket pouring paint out. Click that button. Select the color you'd like to use and then left click the mouse in the spot you'd like to be that color. If you would like to add text to your image click the "T" button on the left side and click where you'd like add it. You'll notice a box that offers a chance to change the size, font, and color of the text if you would like to.