It is impossible to imagine modern high-quality advertising without computer processing of photos or videos. People just won't understand.
A little over a month ago there was a post with well-known photographs of modern studios and individual creative masters. Today - the second part, many of their photographs were made by the same authors. Many have seen some prints in advertising campaigns, some - you can guess where.
Learning from the best!
Platinum FMD, Brazil
Remix Studio Bangkok, Thailand
Carioca Studio, Romania
Сream Studios, Australia
Beefactory, Belgium
Saddington & Baynes, UK
Saddington & Baynes is a pioneer of digital retouching. The studio began its work in 1991, when this instrument was not so widespread, and therefore the studio undertook the mission of studying and distributing it.
Advertising images for Saddington & Baynes photographers and designers are complex, layered, and nearly perfect from a technical point of view. Their striving for the absolute is appreciated by the world's leading advertising agencies: they cooperate with representative offices of Saatchi & Saatchi, Ogilvy, BBDO, Lowe and many others around the world.
Jekill "n" Hyde Studio, Belgium
Most European photographers use the services of retouching studio Jekill "n" Hyde. Which, in general, is not surprising. The studio not only does its job on the highest level, but also directly admits - "We love photography."
Garrigosa Studio, Spain
Garrigosa Studio makes the wildest imaginations of creatives come true.
The studio got its name thanks to Joan Garrigosa, one of the legendary advertising photographers, whose passion has grown into a strong studio with offices in several European countries.
Staudinger & Franke, Austria
Studio Staudinger + Franke is an Austrian photography / advertising agency that specializes in the development of creative images.
Founded by Robert Staudinger and Andreas Franke, the studio works with both European and American clients. Their portfolio includes creative for Lipton, Juicy Fruit, Coca Cola, Absolut.
Electric Art, Australia
Electric Art is an internationally renowned retouching studio located in the heart of Sydney Creative's Surry Hills.
Over the past 15 years, the studio has built a solid reputation in the print post-production industry, delivering outstanding solutions to all of its clients and exceeding all technical and creative requirements.
Lightfarm Studios, New Zealand
Cream Studios, Australia
Cream photo retouching and 3D modeling studio is one of the largest and most reputable studios in Australia.
The works of this studio are always distinguished by a special brilliance, moreover, most often in literally this word. Their works shine, play with glare and attract the eye.
Christophe Huet, France
No matter how much we would like, but the name of the retoucher Christophe Huet reads only as "Ue", Monsieur is French. But he is a master of attracting attention and provocation even without the Russian frontal transcription of the surname.
The retouching surrealist and symbolist perfectly knows professional retouching tools, collaborates with most major European agencies and photographers, does not hesitate to share his work with people, and has a strong social position. Besides, he is a composer and plays the piano beautifully.
Taylor James, UK
Taylor James is committed to creating creative images, but more importantly, they must be compelling and compelling. They formulate the principles of their work as follows: perspective, light, angles, color and three-dimensional way of thinking.
LSD, Italy
There are no big names in the portfolio of the Milan studio LSD. However, put together, the work of this team literally blows the mind.
Two Italian guys Marco Casale and Paolo Dall "ara, known under the common LSD brand, photograph people, children, animals, and cars. Combining their talents, the photographers have created a huge portfolio that amazes with the quality of the images and the ideas.
Vienna Paint, Austria
The studio was founded in 1988, when few people heard about computer photo retouching, and, according to founders Andreas Fitzner and Albert Winkler, "a few dreamer insiders."
From a small studio just starting to master retouching using tools that were not very diverse at that time, Vienna Paint has become as a result of one of the largest and most famous.
Photoshop is a very feature rich program that gives us amazing features. However, if you are just learning this software, then you probably do not yet understand which techniques are best to use. In this post, Hungarian designer Martin Perhiniak will share his experience and talk about how NOT to work in Photoshop. Your attention 10 bad habitswhich it would be nice to get rid of!
1. Work in one layer
Regardless of what you do in Photoshop, try to do it in additional layers. If you make all the changes directly on the layer of the original image, sooner or later you will have problems. In particular, with the ability to undo or edit changes. The basic principle of the so-called non-destructive method of working in Photoshop is based on working in new layers. In this case, it becomes incredibly easier to make changes to the work done.
2. Removing and erasing instead of masking
It's also a bad habit to erase and remove parts of the image. This is the most that neither is destructive method work! Use masks instead. For instance:
- Pixel Mask
- Vector Mask
- Clipping Mask
The easiest way to hide part of an image is with a mask. At the same time, you hide the unwanted part only for the time you need. In case you change your mind, you can always edit the mask or cancel it altogether.
3. Waste time for extra clicks
Using Photoshop without hotkeys is like eating soup with a fork. It is possible, but very time consuming and inconvenient. A true Photoshop master should have one hand on the mouse (or tablet) and the other on the keyboard. Here are some of the most common keyboard shortcuts you will need:
- Cmd / Ctrl + T - Free Transform / Free Transform
- Cmd / Ctrl + Enter - accept text / Accept typing
- Cmd / Ctrl + S - Save document
- Cmd / Ctrl + A - select all / Select all
- Cmd / Ctrl + D - Deselect / Deselect
- Cmd / Ctrl + I - invert colors / Invert colors
- Cmd / Ctrl + Shift + I - invert selection
- Cmd / Ctrl + click on the layer icon - select from an object in this layer
- Cmd / Ctrl + Option / Alt + A - Select All Layers
- Option / Alt + Click Between Two Layers - Clipping Mask
- Cmd / Ctrl + G - Group Layers
- Cmd / Ctrl + Shift + G - Ungroup Layers
If you are also interested in Photoshop hotkeys, check out this picture:
4. Transforming raster layers
Many Photoshop users have heard about how useful Smart Objects are, but not everyone uses them regularly. And it’s a shame, because when you convert a raster layer into a smart object, Photoshop starts working with it as a separate file. And this is what it means:
Thanks to technologies introduced in Photoshop CS2, we have the ability to transform Smart Objects as much as we like without losing the quality of the file enclosed in them. Try to do the same with a bitmap file, and after reduction you will not return to the previous quality.
5. Ignoring adjustment layers
Working in Photoshop without using Adjustment Layers is similar to working in one layer. it big mistake... If you apply a correction from the Image / Image menu directly to an image, you will not be able to edit the changes later. And when using adjustment layers, you can change the selected options at any time, as well as experiment with opacity and blending mode.
6. Disorganization
When working in Photoshop it is very important to organize your work in an organized way. If you have already learned, or already used the first advice about working in new layers, then you definitely need to get into the habit of naming each new layer according to its content. It may seem like a waste of time, but trust me, it will save you a lot more time and especially your colleagues if you work in a team.
7. Using destructive filters
Filters in Photoshop can be applied non-destructively using Smart Filters. In this case, you can turn filters on and off, change parameters, opacity and blending mode.
8. Sub-optimal navigation
Some users drag vertical and horizontal stripes scrolling. This is instead of pressing Space, thus activating the Hand / Hand tool and moving around the document in any direction. There are several keyboard shortcuts to help you navigate.
- Space - hand tool / Hand tool
- Z + drag right and left - zoom in and out
- Hold down H + click - "bird's eye view" mode
- Cmd / Control + 0 - Expand to screen size
- Cmd / Control + 1 - Real size
9. Not using Bridge
Adobe Bridge is a program that has been included with Photoshop since version CS2. The software helps to structure and not get confused in the files that you work with in Photoshop. ( Nevertheless, Adobe Bridge is still an amateur program. It is quite possible not to include it in the list of software that must be used. - approx. ed.)
10. Not saving PSD
Never forget to save your PSD file. Also ALWAYS save the document while you work. It should become a habit at the reflex level. There is nothing more offensive than losing a lot of work done due to the fact that your computer freezes. Always save PSD files. You don't need to show it to anyone, but if you suddenly need to make changes, the file will be at hand.
Translation - Duty
(examples of works are taken from the training portal http://www.photoshop-master.ru/)
Exercise 1
How to Create an Abstract Gold Ring in Photoshop. Final Image.
Step 1. Create a new document of any size with a black background. Create a new layer and take EllipticalMarqueeTool (Oval selection) (M) with the following parameters:
Hold down the SHIFT key and draw a circle as shown below:
Right-click on the selection and select Stroke (Stroke):
-
We outline the selection with the following parameters: ( white color, width 2 px)
Reduce Opacity(Opacity) layer to about 40% and we get this effect:
Step 2. Now we'll use the Smoke brushes to add texture to the circle. Create a new layer and select one of the brushes from the set, then paint as shown below: (before working, reduce the size of the brush)
We use Edit -Transform -Warp (Edit - Transform - Warp) to transform the smoke along the outline of the circle:
Soft eraser (E) carefully remove the end of the smoke so that it smoothly goes into a circle:
Duplicate (CTRL + J) the smoke layer several times and place each copy around a circle.
Tip: Use FreeTransform (Free Transform) (CTRL + T) to rotate each layer and adjust its shape.
Merge all the smoke layers together (CTRL + E) and duplicate (CTRL + J) the resulting layer several times. Then using FreeTransform (Free Transform) (CTRL + T) Transform the duplicated layer to add more effect:
Create a new layer and paint the smoke inside the circle, then scale it down Opacity(Opacity) layer up to about 20%:
Add an adjustment layer Levels (Levels) above all previous layers:
Edit the mask of the Levels adjustment layer:
We get the following result: (as you can see, by adding an adjustment layer, we increased the depth and contrast of the smoke)
Step 3. Now let's add a simple light effect to the circles. Create a new layer above all the previous ones and make one click with a soft white brush as shown below:
We deform this layer with Warp (Deformation) by circle shape:
As you can see, we now have a spot of light:
Duplicate (CTRL + J) this layer several times to enhance the effect:
We repeat this process on the opposite side of the circle:
And we get this effect:
Step 4. Now we will add a cloud effect around the circle. To do this, create a new layer and draw a selection with EllipticalMarqueeTool (Oval selection) (M) (feather (feather) 40 px), inside the selection we generate clouds using the filter Filter -Render -Clouds (Filter - Rendering - Clouds):
Press CTRL + L and apply the following settings for the clouds layer:
Then we use Warp (Warp) to transform the clouds as shown below: (this will create a slight motion effect for the sphere)
And we get the following result:
Step 5.We're almost done! Let's add the finishing touches in the form of additional effects. I added more smoke at the top and bottom of the sphere:
To add a golden hue, I created an adjustment layer ColorBalance (Color Balance) above all previous layers:
And finally, flatten all the layers. Layer -FlattenImage (Layer - Flatten) then apply filter Filter -Noise -ReduceNoise(Filter - Noise - Reduce Noise): (this will sharpen the effect and reduce the color noise of the circle)
New to Photoshop? We will help you figure out what's what!
Learning Photoshop can take a long time, and there are many things that I, unfortunately, did not know about when I started doing it. Therefore, today I present to your attention ten useful notes, thanks to which working with Photoshop will become much easier! You will learn about the most important tools and tricks that even a beginner can master.
1. Get to know the Tools
This is the Photoshop toolbar.
Click on the double arrow to arrange the tools on the panel in one or two rows.
Did you know that you can customize it for yourself?
Although many useful tools will always be in your sight, you can miss additional toolshidden behind the triangles in the lower right corner, using only what is "on the surface".
So customize the toolbar for yourself - make it a helpful reminder to try new tools!
Click Edit\u003e Toolbar (Edit\u003e Toolbar ...) to manually select tools. Group them according to priority levels - for example, one group may be composed of tools that have yet to be mastered, and another - those that you use regularly.
Don't overload the panel with tools you don't use; put your favorite instruments in it instead!
Decide on the Core Toolbox
All tools will not be needed in every job, and therefore it is important to build a strong base, with several flexible tools that are good at different types works.
Here you see two different projects: drawing on a tablet and photo manipulation. Notice that the tools for both projects are identical?
While the first project is all about drawing, the second is very dependent on my illustrative skills. So don't worry if you are not familiar with these tools yet! Your main set should reflect your interests, be it design, photography, or illustration.
Also, keep in mind that many of Photoshop's tools can be used for different purposes. For example, the tool Pen (Pen) can be used to separate the model from the background or to create a vector illustration.
There are other tools that you will need, but consider them secondary. For example tools Pen (Feather) and Move (Moving) may not seem particularly creative at first glance, but they are needed (and sometimes needed very often) to improve the workflow.
What are your main tools?
In the beginning, you will always have favorites. But as your skills improve, challenge yourself and try new tools and creative effects.
2. Introduction to the Layers Panel
Simultaneous keystrokes Control-Shift-N creates a new layer.
Layers panel very effective and helpful. It will change the way you think about development, opening up countless possibilities in Photoshop.
But how?
Well, in general, the panel allows you to control several parameters. Opacity (Opacity), Fill (Fill) and Color (Color) are just a few. With these options, you can modify your layers to create many cool effects.
Text effects, for example, are often created with incredible Layer Styles (Layer styles).
In the beginning, you will probably use the Layers panel for its primary purpose - to keep your work on separate layers, but I highly recommend getting into it in more detail. Explore the panel as much as you can and you will discover new ways to create detailed artwork.
Experiencing color problems? Try to work with Layer Blend Modes (Layer Blending Modes). Want to get a brighter result? Perhaps your solution is Adjustment Layer (Adjustment layer).
3. Save time with Layer Masks
Now is the time for an important conversation - the conversation about layer masks.
Layer masks can be confusing for beginners, but they are vital to effective editing.
To use a layer mask:
Here I drew a circle in the middle of the mask to show white background under a layer filled with blue
Use layer masks in any artwork! Incorporate them into your regular work so that any adjustments can always be undone painlessly.
Most of the time, difficulties with this function arise from not understanding when to use it. Beginners will often just use the tool Eraser (Eraser) as this is the fastest solution.
You can also use masks to create isolated objects and then insert them into your artwork.
4. Control-S Right?
Quality matters, so before you save your work and close the program, consider the following:
- Why do I need this file?
- Where can I store it?
- What format do I need it in?
- How to keep it in the best quality?
Above you can see a comparison of different quality levels, 1 - 83%, 2 - 1%. Image via Envato Elements.
What and Where
The answer to the first question is whether your work will be used online. In graphic materials for online posts, quality is not so important, while printed materials must be saved in high resolution. Explore the printing guidelines to understand why important settings such as Color modes(Color Profile) and how to manage them.
Store your files in a location on your computer where you have quick access. Photoshop can throw an error if the file is missing some elements (for example, fonts), so try to keep everything in order.
Format and quality
Now that you know what your work is for, you can move on to saving it in a suitable format. Many designers save their work in multiple formats for added flexibility.
Click File\u003e Export\u003e Save for Web (File\u003e Export\u003e Save for Web).
Check how your work looks like with different compression settings. Avoid losing quality!
How good will your design look when printed?
You also need to save your work in different formats in order to understand the print quality. If, for example, your drawing, design or other work contains bright neon colors, then you may be disappointed with the physical result.
Minimalist design is a huge trend in part because it gives more opportunities when printing. This design is often easier to print and therefore more commonly used.
What looks good on screen won't always look so good on paper. There are many reasons for this, and one of them is how the ink is applied to the paper. This step also requires an understanding of the difference between color profiles. RGB and CMYK.
Work according to your situation. To open / change Color Mode(Color Profile) of your file, click Edit\u003e Color Settings (Editing\u003e Adjusting Colors ...).
Test your work by printing them in the printing industry! For achievement best result find out the subtleties of the printer of a particular printing industry.
6. Sets! Sets! Sets!
IN real world there are things like tight deadlines and daunting tasks. So save precious time by using Photoshop's built-in presets!
There are sets of brushes, shapes, patterns and more. You can quickly add a filter to your photo or create a brochure with abstract elements.
To view all of them, click Edit\u003e Presets\u003e Preset Manager(Edit\u003e Sets\u003e Manage Sets).
Some of my favorite sets are the brush sets. Brush sets from your favorite artists are cool too, but use the ones you already own!
These kits include various textures, beautiful gradients, and more.
In the screenshot you can see an example of the Wet Media brush set.
Use the kits to create amazing effects! They are already organized for your convenience, so all you have to do is download them and get started.
7.Easy to change colors with adjustment layers
Create incredible schemes lighting with just a couple of clicks!
Adjustment Layers (Adjustment Layers) are just perfect for those new to Photoshop. They allow you to seamlessly change many of the visual aspects of your work.
Need to save original photo? No problems. Tools that allow you to undo any changes, like adjustment layers, can help you create stunning effects without losing quality.
To use an adjustment layer Color Lookup (Color search):
Click Layer\u003e New Adjustment Layer\u003e Color Lookup (Layer\u003e New Adjustment Layer\u003e Find Color). Select the set for the file 3DLUT File from the dropdown menu. Click OK and enjoy the result.
Stock photo from Envato Elements.
Adjustment layers are one of my favorite tools, and I am thrilled to know that they work just as well for tablet illustrations!
Photoshop artists use these adjustments to try different color palettes before making a final decision. Explore different schemes lighting and more with incredible tools such as Curves (Curves).
8. Learn to Organize Your Workspace
Chefs love keeping their kitchens tidy as this contributes to their neatness and productivity. So why not create yourself a clean workplace in Photoshop?
The organization contributes to a good working environment. And even if sloppiness seems to be very creative, an organized workspace can improve your work.
To get started, close all unnecessary tabs!
After that, there are still many ways to make everything even neater. For example, you can pin and unpin your favorite panels and toolboxes.
Then press Window\u003e Arrange (Window\u003e Arrange).
Choose one of the following layout options to keep all your documents neatly displayed. Keep sources of inspiration close at hand to make them easier to reach.
The standard solution is Consolidate All to Tabs(Combine all in tabs), but you can also choose, for example 2-up Vertical(2 up, horizontally) to place the sample next to your work.
You need to return your workplace to initial appearance? Click Window\u003e Workspace\u003e Reset Essentials (Window\u003e Workspace\u003e Reset Main Workspace).
Each artist's workplace will be different. Some people like to see more dashboards than others. I, for example, do not belong to such, as I prefer to minimize the clutter. But whatever your liking, you can always customize working environment the way you want.
9. Master the Pen Tool
Tool Pen (Feather) (P) can be intimidating at times, however, over time you will be able to fully master it.
First, study the tool itself. Option Path (Outline) is needed to select an area, and Shape (Shape) allows you to create your own shapes.
Then get to know Path operations(Operations with a contour), Alignment(Outline alignment) and Arrangement (Contour ordering). Designers who are familiar with Adobe Illustrator may find it easier to get comfortable with this tool.
Most the best way to master something is to experiment! Create a bunch of lines and curls and then play around with settings like Blending options (Blending options). The possibilities are truly endless! Don't forget to use the Pen Tool when creating text effects, illustrations, and more!
10. Remember Hotkeys
Hotkeys are not new.
However, designers sometimes have trouble remembering them. Want to learn a little trick to help you remember these keys?
Try this old trick to help you think about tools. When you think about hotkey, present an image that explains what it is, or how to use it.
By pressing the letter B which calls the tool Brush (Brush), I automatically render this:
Remember these keys in order of priority. As in the first part of the lesson, here it is important to figure out which hotkeys you need the most. You will also need to memorize additional keys related to your favorite instruments.
To increase the size of the brush, for example, press the right or left square bracket: [ or ] .
Your favorite keyboard shortcuts will be easy to remember as you will use them frequently, but it's worth exploring the possibilities.
You won't master Photoshop overnight, and that's completely fine! Just think of it as a creative adventure that gets better over time.
Before you close this tutorial, remember:
- Decide on your core toolbox
- Get to know the layers panel
- Save time with layer masks
- Save files correctly
- Know the difference between print and web recommendations
- Use the kits ...
- ... and adjustment layers.
- Organize your workplace.
- Examine the Pen tool.
- Remember the hotkeys.
Give these tips a try and tell us in the comments what you find most useful!