Photoshop and Me

This is the last week of 2D Illustration II, and I feel like I’ve really pushed myself a lot farther than I’m accustomed to. It’s funny how many deadlines you can meet if you really put your mind to it.

I’ve learned a lot about the different techniques of Photoshop, and started to form my own habits with using the program. There are still so many things to learn, but education is a never-ending thing.

I feel like I’ve created some really unique pieces to add to my portfolio, and am proud of my progress throughout the course. I am definitely looking forward to the opportunities that the future holds.

Shortcuts are the key to success

Photoshop shortcuts are key to productivity. While teaching a tutorial, I was informed of several shortcuts that I did not know existed. They make things so much easier, and your work gets done so much faster.

There is also an option to set up your own shortcuts, but I do not recommend this. It may seem easier for you to remember shortcuts this way, but it can only hurt you in the long run of things. Should you have to use an employer’s copy of Photoshop, then you will be relying on the custom shortcuts you learned, and they will not be the same on that version.

It may seem hard at first, but by taking a little extra time to learn the standard Photoshop shortcuts, it will definitely cut down on how much time you spend trying to do a certain action on Photoshop.

Finding a relevant tutorial

We’ve been given the task of finding 3 tutorials (one must be a text tutorial) to teach to the class. Finding a relevant tutorial that isn’t too complex has been a fun challenge.

For my first tutorial, I chose “Changing an image’s color with an adjustment layer.” I found it very useful when working with a few of my projects. It’s much easier to use an adjustment layer, because it can be changed very simply at a later time. It’s very difficult to change the color of an image once you’ve applied the effect directly.

I found my tutorial at Layers Magazine.

It's all about the angle

"A photograph is not an accident – it is a concept."

Ansel Adams

I am starting up 2D Illustrations II, and working with Photoshop again. It's been a little while since I've toyed around with Photoshop. I've picked up some new shortcuts, which definitely make things smoother and quicker when editing a photo.

I spent all yesterday afternoon and evening just snapping photos, to see which angles and lighting work best. I've found that the best shots are planned out, although that's not to say an amazing shot cannot be spontaneous.

I also discovered that the more you work on composition of the photo before you shoot, the less time you actually have to spend fixing it up afterward. I am definitely looking forward to learning more techniques during this course, and hope to see an improvement in my photography style.

Phancy Designs, inc.

Our last project for Delivery Systems II is a website promoting ourselves, and our “design firm.” For my design firm, I chose the title “Phancy Designs, inc.” because it gives off a unique and playful vibe.

I reviewed numerous design firm websites, and most of the basics were the same. There were firms that included many more categories, and others that didn’t include enough contact information.

Most firms included a portfolio showcasing their work, as well as a brief description of what their company actually does, and what kind of service to expect from them.

I also saw many firms featuring past clients, and showcasing the works they created for them, as well as a follow up link to their website.

For my website, I chose to keep in the basics, and made sure to include contact information (although, some contact info is faked, because it is a school project), and a small selection of previous designs.

Taking on Project 365

"Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death."

Albert Einstein

I recently discovered an interesting and motivational activity called “Project 365” and thought this would be a fun and worthwhile task to take on. Not only for the memories I would be creating, but also to help me grow as a designer and photographer.

The basic task of the project is to document a year of your life in pictures. It would be a photo journal, to look back upon. With our busy schedules, so many days pass by, and the days start mixing together. We can’t remember what happened each day, only the really special moments.

With this project, it helps you to see the beauty and inspiration around you, and enables you to create a “special moment” every day. I’m hoping it will further spark my creativity, and help me with new angles, composition, and lighting effects.

Each day I will add a new photo to my Photo Blog. I hope you will follow along on my journey.

A picture is worth a thousand words

"If you see something that moves you, and then snap it, you keep a moment. "

Linda McCartney

I've always loved photography, and capturing special moments. I’ve had the privilege of owning several still cameras, as well as digital cameras. A few years ago, I purchased a DSLR, and never got around to reading the manual. It was very simple to use. I just had to click it to “auto” and I was off and running.

Recently I found my manual, and have been meaning to read it, but it seems like I never get the time. I chose “Basic Digital Photography” for my next project, so I can explore the manual settings in depth. I'd also like to work more with a tripod, and try out some HDR (High Dynamic Range) shots as well.