10 top Photoshop resources
Want to learn Photoshop? Or hone your skills in the photo editing software? Then check out these top online resources.
The web is a wonderful thing, brimming with resources and tutorials for people wanting to learn the art of Photoshop CS6 (and previous versions). But, sometimes, too much choice can be confusing, so we've picked 10 top sites that will really help you get to grips with the photo editing software.
01. Lynda
If you haven't got to know Lynda Weinman and Bruce Heavin's extensive tutorial video library then you should. Lynda doesn't deal exclusively with Photoshop but the site offers a wealth of training in the software for the beginner to intermediate user. Some of the training is free but to access the majority of it you will need to subscribe to the site, which starts at $25 per month.
02. PSD Learning
PSD Learning started back in 2008. It is owned and edited by designer Ross Aitken, who has an avid interest in computer graphics and shares his knowledge through easy to follow tutorials. It has a clean layout and is organised into different categories for easy navigation. Learn everything from Photoshop scripting to creating a dramatic movie poster here.
03. Pixel2life
Pixel2life is a huge tutorial search engine on the internet, which caters for graphic designers and programmers. It has an extensive section on Photoshop training with literally thousands of tutorials to choose from. The site also features a really useful sidebar of sub categories in order for you to find lessons in the effects you want to achieve.
04. Photoshop Essentials
If you're a newbie to Photoshop, then head over to Photoshop Essentials, which has easy to follow, step-by-step style training. They have lessons on everything from Photoshop basics to photo editing and retouching, text effects and more. And it's all written with beginners in mind. The site is clean, tidy and easy to navigate. It also has helpful side bars featuring the latest and most popular tutorials.
05. Photoshop tutorials on Deviant Art
Photoshop tutorials has a brilliant range of learning material on online community for artist and art enthusiasts Deviant Art. Divided into seven different categories, including a beginner and web design section, it is easy to find the specific tutorials you're after. This site isn't just for people wanting to learn though, you can submit tutorials too. See the site for terms and conditions.
06. Phlearn
Phlearn is a fantastic, free online resource offering lots of high quality photography and Photoshop instructions. Owner and creative director Aaron Nace also aims to make the training interesting and dynamic, keeping the viewers attention by throwing in the occasional joke or singing and dancing on screen. Informative and entertaining: what more could you want?
07. Psd tuts +
Psdtuts+ is a blog that offers some of the best Photoshop tutorials around. The site has an extensive library of tutorials covering many different areas, including 3D, illustration and text effects to name but a few. It also has a Basix section for beginners so users of all skill levels can learn the art of photo manipulation, retouching, icon design, text effects, and much more.
08. Practical Photoshop
Monthly magazine Practical Photoshop features a wealth of brilliant tutorials amongst its pages, many of which make it on to its equally good website. There's pages of training to work through and something for users of all levels and, best of all, it's free!
09. Tutorial9
Tutorial9 is a fantastic resource for Photoshop tutorials, all of which are entirely free. There are currently 30 pages of training available so you are sure to find something of interest here. There is also a search option so you can filter your options to find the newest tutorials submitted by either Tutorial9 themselves or submitted by other users.
10. PS Hero
PS Hero is a brilliant Photoshop resource run by Hero - a surfer, photographer and graphic designer based in Southern California. With a large selection of free tutorials, this site offers training in the areas of graphic design, photo and text effects. It also features an inspiration gallery and goodies section where you can take advantage of free PSD files, custom shapes and more.