Using Photoshop: A Practical Introduction to Adobe Photoshop

Overview

Are you interested in learning how to use Adobe Photoshop and unlocking its full creative potential? This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Adobe Photoshop, one of the world’s leading image editing and digital design applications. Designed for beginners and those looking to refresh their skills, the course guides learners through the essential tools, techniques, and workflows used by photographers, designers, marketers, and creative professionals.

Throughout the course, learners will develop confidence in navigating the Photoshop workspace and managing projects efficiently. They will explore key features such as layers, selections, masks, image retouching, colour correction, and adjustment tools, gaining practical experience in enhancing and transforming digital images. The course also introduces non-destructive editing techniques, helping learners maintain flexibility and control throughout the creative process.

Whether you are looking to start your creative journey, support your studies, enhance your professional skill set, or simply explore digital image editing as a hobby, this course provides a strong foundation in Adobe Photoshop and the confidence to apply your new skills in real world projects.

Programme

During the course, learners will explore the following:

1. Introduction to the Photoshop Workspace Explore the Photoshop interface, including panels, toolbars, menus, and workspace customisation to create an efficient editing environment.
2. Understanding Layers, Layer Masks, and Non-Destructive Editing Learn how to organise projects using layers, apply layer masks to control visibility, and use non-destructive editing techniques that preserve original image data.
3. Selection Tools and Techniques Develop skills in making accurate selections using tools such as the Marquee, Lasso, Quick Selection, and Object Selection tools for targeted image editing.
4. Image Adjustments and Colour Correction Enhance photographs and graphics through brightness and contrast adjustments, levels, curves, colour balance, and other correction techniques to achieve professional results.
5. Retouching and Image Repair Tools Use industry-standard retouching tools, including the Clone Stamp, Healing Brush, Spot Healing Brush, and Patch Tool, to remove imperfections and restore images.
6. Working with Text and Basic Graphic Design Principles Create visually engaging layouts by incorporating typography, text effects, alignment, composition, and fundamental graphic design concepts.
7. Using Brushes and Digital Painting Basics Discover Photoshop's brush tools and settings while exploring basic digital painting, illustration, and creative effects techniques.
8. Exporting and Saving for Web, Print, and Digital Sharing Understand file formats, resolution settings, and export options to optimise work for websites, social media, presentations, and professional print production.
9. Practical Creative Exercises and Mini Projects Apply newly acquired skills through hands-on activities and guided projects designed to reinforce learning and build a portfolio of creative work.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

1. Navigate the Photoshop interface and use core tools confidently.
2. Apply non-destructive editing techniques using layers, masks, and adjustment layers.
3. Perform basic image corrections and retouching using appropriate tools and workflows.
4. Create simple graphic compositions using text, shapes, and images.
5. Export and save files in suitable formats for web, print, and digital sharing.

Assessments

1. Image Editing. Learners complete a guided task involving cropping, adjustments, and retouching. (30%)
2. Creative Composition. Learners create a simple poster or social media graphic using layers, text, and images. (40%)
3. Final Project. A self chosen piece demonstrating skills learned across the module. (30%)

Reading Suggestions

Additional reading list available on request.

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

A list of materials, not included in the course fees, will be available prior to the course start date.