ADOBE

PHOTOSHOP
FOR BEGINNERS AND SENIORS 2023-2024

MASTER THE LATEST ADOBE PHOTOSHOP: EXPLORE THE

FEATURES, TOOLS, AND TECHNIQUES OF ADOBE PHOTOSHOP
2023-2024 FROM BEGINNERS TO ADVANCED LEVELS TO
BOOST YOUR IMAGE AND VIDEO EDITING SKILLS

By Smith Williamson
 All rights reserved.

This publication is protected by copyright law. Any reproduction,

distribution, or transmission of this work in any form or by any means,
including photocopying, recording, or electronic methods, without prior
written permission from the publisher, is strictly prohibited. Brief
quotations in critical reviews and specific noncommercial uses allowed
by copyright law are exceptions to this rule.

Copyright © November 2023 by Smith Williamson.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1
GETTING STARTED WITH ADOBE PHOTOSHOP 2023
What Is Adobe Photoshop?
Why Do You Need Adobe Photoshop Elements 2023
What’s New in Photoshop?
Enhancements in the Layers panel for Photoshop:
New Features In Adobe Photoshop 2023
Peek-through Overlay
Guided Edit Search
New and Refreshed Content
Perfect Landscape Guided Edit
Replace Background Guided Edit
Pattern Brush Guided Edit
Perfect Portrait Guided Edit
Photo collage
New Slideshow designs
System Requirements For Photoshop Elements 2023
CHAPTER 2
ORGANIZING THE HOME SCREEN
Quick Mode
Guided Mode
Expert Mode
Menu Bar
Mode Selector
Toolbox
Panel Bin
Photo Bin / Tools Selection
Taskbar
CHAPTER 3
ADOBE PHOTOSHOP TOOLS
Toolbox in the Quick mode
Toolbox in the Expert mode
Classification of Photoshop Elements Tools
Move Tool
The Rectangular Marquee Tool
Lasso Tool
Selection Tool
Plant Tool
Frame Tool
Eyedropper Tool
Spot Healing Brush Tool
Brush Tool
Clone Stamp Tool
History Brush Tool
Eraser Tool
Gradient Tool
Blur Tool
Dodge Tool
Pen Tool
Type Tool
Path Selection Tool
Rectangles Tool
H and Tool
Zoom Tool
CHAPTER 4
USING THE ENHANCED QUICK MODE
How to Apply Photoshop Effect
Artistic Effects
Classic Effects
Auto-smart Effects
Tint Effect
Seasons Effect
Pencil Sketch Effect.
Toy Camera Effect
Black and White Effects
Lithograph Effect.
Cross Processes Effect
Split Tone Effects
Vintage Effects
Light Leaks Effects
Textures
Applying Frames to images
CHAPTER 5
IMPROVING AND FIXING IMAGES WITH PHOTOSHOP
How to Clone Image Areas, Replace Colors, and Add Blur
How to soften or blur the edges of your Designs
Clone Images or Specific Portions of Images
Opacity: Unleashing Subtle Elegance
Mode: Blending Art and Pixels
Aligned: Magic at Your Fingertips
Clone Overlay: A Realm of Creative Choices
Unleash Your Creative Power
Two paths to tread:
Photo Merge Style Match: The Art of Visual Harmony
Reimagining Photomerge: Unleashing the Power of Style Transfer
The Art of Sharpening: Elevating Image Clarity
Using Sharpen Tool: Perfecting Image Clarity
How to Protect Detail: Balancing Enhancements
Precise Sharpening with Modify Sharpness
Unleash the Power of Unsharp Mask Filter
Mastering Image Clarity with the Unsharp Mask Filter
Adding Distinction to Reduce Blurriness
Fine-Tuning with Unsharp Mask Settings
CHAPTER 6:
ENHANCING YOUR CREATIONS WITH SHAPES AND TEXT
Adding Text - A Visual Element with Impact
Customizing Text with Character Menu
Mastering Text Layout with Paragraph Menu
Experimenting with Menu Icons
Creating Text and Shapes with Flair
Single-Line vs. Paragraph Text: Unleashing Artistic Freedom
Exploring the Art of Text Editing in Adobe Photoshop
Mastering Text Customization: A World of Options
Venturing Beyond the Textbox
Unlocking the Potential of the Type Tool
Section 2: Text on Selection Tool
Use the Text on Custom Path tool
Creating and Utilizing Masked Type
Crafting Captivating Visuals with Masked Type
Text Selection and Editing in Expert Mode
Editing Text with Expert Precision
Text Orientation Adjustment
Customizing Text Size
Type Warping
Undoing Type Warping
CHAPTER 7
WORKING WITH COLORS
Understanding Color Principles
Color Wheel
Set Up or Establish Color Management
Printers
Color Management Tasks
Configuring Color Management
Modifying Color Profiles
Choosing Colors
Choosing a Foreground Color with the Eyedropper Tool
Selecting a Color from the Toolbox
Utilizing the Color Swatches Panel
Selecting a Color Using the Color Swatches Panel
Adding a Color to the Color Swatches Panel
Resetting a Swatch Library to Default Color Swatches
Removing a Color from the Color Swatches Panel
Utilizing the Adobe Color Picker
Adjusting Color, Saturation, and Hue
Altering Color Saturation or Hue
Adjusting the Range of Hue/Saturation Sliders
Adjusting Skin Tone Color
Modifying Saturation in Specific Areas
CHAPTER 8
WORKING WITH SELECTION
Choose a theme Automatically
Use Selection Tools
Utilize the Quick Selection tool
Use the Selection Brush Tools
Use the Refine Selection Brush Tool
Use Auto Selection Tool
Deleting a Specific Area
Smoothing Selection Edges with Anti-Aliasing and Feathering
Blurring Selection Edges through Feathering
Defining a Feathered Edge for a Selection Tool
CHAPTER 9
CRAFTING PHOTO PROJECTS
Why Creating Photo Projects
Create Your Photo Collages
Create Photo Books
CONCLUSION
 INTRODUCTION

Many people overlook Photoshop Elements because they don't

recognize the reality of it’s capabilities as a tool for turning imagination
into reality. Physically, humans are incapable of accomplishing
anything in life without the use of imagination, which is the
cornerstone of actualizing meaning in life. Not everything can be
represented in writing or speech; sometimes, an image is more
effective.

You can manage, organize, edit, and share your photos and videos
using the flexible and user-friendly image-editing program Adobe
Photoshop Elements. Additionally, Adobe Photoshop Elements has a
simple and user-friendly interface that allows you to browse, preview,
and launch slideshow presentations.

Even though Adobe Photoshop Elements has been there since 2001,
it continues to grow and improve every year without being supplanted
or surpassed by any other product. It is a skill that is frequently
employed both now, in the present, and in the future. Therefore,
understanding Photoshop and how having that expertise can aid you
will help you to realize and appreciate what's crucial when you're
performing things. Because of its importance, professionals in the
visual and creative industries cannot function without it. You'll
appreciate using Photoshop because it has all the features you'll need
to complete a project. Photoshop is a great tool for graphic production.
In essence, Photoshop will allow you to express your creativity. It has
grown into one of my current go-to applications and allows you to
express your creativity with tools like Premiere Pro and After Effects.
Photoshop acts as a sort of groundwork for this information.
This manual gives you the opportunity to learn and master Photoshop,
a crucial tool for graphic designers. This is a step-by-step manual that
teaches how to access the latest version of Photoshop using the
creative cloud web. It covers all aspects of Photoshop from the basics
to advanced features of Photoshop to enable you to design and
manipulate any images or objects. From creative cloud plans, to
creating an account, utilizing creative cloud web to install Photoshop,
and more. The welcome page, the main menu, and the tools of
Photoshop will all be covered after that in this guide. The variety of
packages available to you here will help you on your creative journey
since explanations are given in a realistic manner. As we guide you
through Photoshop, please follow along.
 CHAPTER 1

G E T T I N G S TA R T E D W I T H A D O B E
P H O TO S H O P 2 0 2 3

WHAT IS ADOBE
PHOTOSHOP?
With the aid of its clever tools, Adobe Photoshop is a potent graphic
design program used to carry out editing and retouching operations.
Photoshop was created as a creative tool to trade or translate ideas,
concepts, and words into reality. Professional graphic designers,
photographers, web developers, video editors, and other artists
working in various mediums utilize the software widely.
Two brothers, Thomas Knoll, a software engineer, and John Knoll, a
visual effects supervisor, released Adobe Photoshop Elements in April
2001. Photoshop Elements is a user-friendly program made for people
who are just starting out with photo editing. In contrast to Adobe
Photoshop, it has an intuitive UI. There is an identification symbol for
each product.
The Photoshop Elements Corporation logo is shown below.

WHY DO YOU NEED ADOBE

PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS
2023
The main purpose for which Photoshop Elements was developed and
constructed was to offer a simple method for modifying pictures. You can
manage, organize, edit, and share your photographs and videos with the
flexible and user-friendly macOS image editing program Adobe Photoshop
Elements. Additionally, Adobe Photoshop Elements has a simple and user-
friendly interface from which you can browse, preview, and launch slideshow
presentations.

The most cutting-edge version of Photoshop Elements is the most recent one.
When used properly, it contains very crucial tools and features that make
designing simpler and more expert. One cannot overstate how distinctive this
Photoshop version is. The following are some benefits of Adobe Photoshop
Elements:

● Its user interface is well-organized, with all necessary usage

instructions.
● It has a great tool for designing images, posters, greeting cards,
altering images and videos, and many other things.
● Layers, templates, and colors that have already been created make
customization simple.
● There are many helpful design tools available.
● It is adaptable for all skill levels, whether novice or experienced.

The UI for the 2023 version of Adobe Photoshop Elements is seen below:
 W H AT ’ S N E W I N P H O TO S H O P ?

● Venture beyond the confines of the canvas using Generative

Expand.

Generative Expand: represents the newest addition among the series

of capabilities fueled by Firefly in the Photoshop (beta) application.
This tool is designed to assist you in stretching your image beyond its
original borders and reconstructing it based on your creative vision.
Found within the Crop tool, this feature enables you to enlarge your
canvas and swiftly produce numerous variations of the expanded
picture. These variations can be generated rapidly, with or without
uncomplicated text cues.

With Generative Expand, you unlock a multitude of possibilities:

1. Enlarge an image while maintaining its aspect ratio: Utilize

Generative Expand to readjust an image for a desired visual effect.
Envision what lay outside the camera's frame, weave a broader
narrative, or reposition objects within the frame.
2. Adjust aspect ratios through cropping and expansion: Employ
tools like the Crop feature in Photoshop to modify aspect ratios,
allowing you to transform a widescreen image into an expanded
portrait image.
3. Conduct multiple image enlargements: Perform numerous
expansions on an image.
4. Rotate and expand: Rotate an image and then apply expansion to
it.
5. Craft patterns: Create intricate patterns using the expanded canvas.
To initiate the process, start by selecting the Crop tool and extending it
beyond the original image canvas to achieve your desired aspect ratio.
Subsequently, you have the option to incorporate generated content either
with or without a textual prompt. If no prompt is chosen, selecting "Generate"
prompts Photoshop to seamlessly fill the new space with content that
seamlessly integrates with the existing image, effectively extending the
canvas.

Embrace Generative Expand to streamline the image editing process. The

generated content effortlessly blends with the existing image, encompassing
appropriate elements such as shadows, reflections, lighting, and perspective.
This enables you to dedicate more time to experimenting and customizing
your images to cater to your creative demands.

● Global language support has arrived for Firefly-powered functions

within the Photoshop (beta) desktop application, such as Generative
Fill and Generative Expand. We are thrilled to announce that these
features now offer text prompts in over 100 languages. This
enhancement empowers users from diverse regions to manifest their
creative ideas using text prompts in their preferred language.

E N H A N C E M E N T S I N T H E L AY E R S
PA N E L F O R P H O TO S H O P :
Enhance your efficiency and convenience with the inclusion of new tooltips
and videos. Now, it's simpler than ever to gain insights into working with
Photoshop, thanks to brief instructional videos integrated into informative
tooltips.

Hover your mouse pointer over the Layers and Tools panels to access these
new tooltips and videos. You can initiate playback by clicking the play button
on the thumbnail or selecting the "Watch quick video" button.

NEW FEATURES IN ADOBE

PHOTOSHOP 2023

`In the most recent Photoshop Elements upgrade, numerous new features
have been incorporated. This facilitates use and encourages creativity. These
characteristics distinguish this most recent upgrade from earlier ones. Among
these additional amenities are the ones that follow:

Moving Elements

By picking a location and adding motion, you may give any image a little of
the charm of a moving-picture performance. In just a few simple steps, you
can now move any part of your static image, including the clouds in the sky,
the waves in the stream, or any object.

PEEK-THROUGH OVERLAY
Overlay with Peek-through You can create the appearance of depth with
Guided Edit. By framing your subject with natural, realistic overlays like
flowers, leaves, grass, and more, you can give the appearance of depth in any
photograph. To encourage just the design you want, simply adjust the size,
blur, or vignette.

GUIDED EDIT SEARCH

You can use the Guided Edit Search area to find the appropriate Guided Edit
out of the currently available 61 Guided Edits. By going through text-based
search, utilizing keyword tags, or choosing from the explore area, you may
easily identify what you'd like to try or find new things to try. To use this
tool, click the Search image in the Guided area, and a Search window will
appear.
 NEW AND REFRESHED
CONTENT

To give your photographs new life, look for updated artistic backdrops,
patterns, and skies. Try giving your photos a fresh look by replacing the
backgrounds in the Replace Background Guided Edit, the landscapes in the
Good Landscape Guided Edit, and the patterns in the Pattern Brush Guided
Edit with new ones.

PERFECT LANDSCAPE
GUIDED EDIT
Replace the skies, haze, and undesired elements with ease when taking
landscape photos. There are now fresh, updated sky choices.

REPLACE BACKGROUND
GUIDED EDIT
Your image's subject is chosen, and a unique background is used to frame it.
It currently has brand-new, trendy backdrops.
 PATTERN BRUSH GUIDED
EDIT
Applying a quirky pattern will offer something extra to your photograph.
with brand-new exciting patterns right now.

PERFECT PORTRAIT
GUIDED EDIT
Get the perfect shot every time, with current adjustments to facial features.
mechanically swish skin, mechanically open closed eyes, mechanically tilt
the face, and more.

PHOTO COLLAGE
With a few clicks, you can create collages. Choose one of the fresh, trendy
themes, then add text for a personalized touch.

NEW SLIDESHOW DESIGNS

Slideshows are a simple way to showcase your photographs and movies. now
with brand-new, unique designs.
 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
FOR PHOTOSHOP
ELEMENTS 2023
The list of system requirements for running Adobe Photoshop Elements 2023
on your Windows or Mac operating system is provided below.

Windows

● A processor from Intel's sixth generation or later, or an AMD model

that supports SSE4.1.
● Only 64-bit versions of Microsoft Windows ten version 21H1
(version 21H2 is preferred); Windows eleven version 21H2;
Windows seven and Windows eight are not supported.
● 8GB of RAM • 5.8GB of hard drive space that can be used to load
applications; additional space required for downloading online
content; up to 20GB of additional space required for temporary files
during product installation and usage (cannot be installed on
removable flash storage devices or volumes that use a case-sensitive
classification system)
● 1280x800 display resolution (at 100% scale factor)
● Internet connection required for product activation, option
transmission, and access to online content; Microsoft DirectX 12
compatible show driver
● Apple Si money supply or newer; Intel sixth-generation processors;
macOS 11, macOS twelve (12.4 or later)
● 8GB of RAM • 6GB of hard drive space that can be used to load
applications; additional space required for downloading online
content; up to 20GB of additional space required for temporary files
during product installation and usage (cannot be installed on a
volume that uses a case-sensitive classification system or on
removable flash storage devices)
● 1280x800 display resolution (at 100% scale factor)
● An Internet connection is required for online content, option
transfers, and product activation.
 CHAPTER 2

ORGANIZING THE HOME

SCREEN

We'll examine Adobe Photoshop Elements 2023's workspace or Home

Screen in this part.

The Adobe Photoshop Element's Home Screen offers an intuitive user

interface that enables you to edit your photographs however you see fit. You
can work in Quick, Guided, or Expert settings depending on how proficient
you are with Photoshop Elements.
The Home screen is the first one you see when Adobe Photoshop Elements
first launches. You can access resources for modern alternatives, open your
necessary application, read numerous feature instructions, read motor vehicle
Creations, and more on this screen.

You can launch your required program, read numerous feature tutorials,
access resources for modern different possibilities, read motor vehicle
Creations, and more on this screen.

QUICK MODE
You can edit photos a lot faster in the fast mode or by using the quick mode.
Use this mode to make quick, simple modifications to your image, such as
adjusting the exposure, color, sharpness, and other characteristics.
GUIDED MODE
The Guided mode allows you to achieve specific predetermined effects
through a wizard-like user interface. Every Guided edit has a corresponding
visual that, when the mouse pointer is hovered over it, shows the applied
impact.
EXPERT MODE
You can edit photographs in the guided mode using the expert mode. It
contains tools for doing camera work, enhancing images, and fixing color
problems. The fast mode includes simple tools for color, lighting, and
communication corrections as well as quick fixes for situations like red eye.
Tools for fundamental picture editing, guided exercises, and photographic
effects are available in the Guided mode.

If you've used image editing software previously, you'll be aware that the
professional mode offers a flexible and potent image-correction setting.
Along with tools for editing image flaws, making selections, adding text, and
painting on your photographs, it also includes lighting and color-correction
software. You will choose the professional area that best suits your needs.
You'll arrange panels inside the Panel Bin then move, hide, and show them.
Additionally, you'll focus on or away from the picture, scroll to a specific
area of the document window, and create several windows and views.

MENU BAR
It has menus with playback options. The menus are arranged according to
topics. The Enhance menu, for instance, has options for making adjustments
to a photo.

MODE SELECTOR
It has buttons that let you choose from three different redaction modes.
contains the Produce (photo projects) drop-down as well as the Open
(recently used files) drop-down.
 TOOLBOX
It contains tools for photo redaction.

PANEL BIN
It categorized items, actions, or controls logically in the panel bin.

PHOTO BIN / TOOLS

SELECTION
It switches between the image bin, which displays and manages thumbnails
of the photographs that are now being used, and the tool choices, which
displays and sets options for the currently selected tool.

TASKBAR
The most popular and often used activities are shown as buttons for quick and
easy access.
 CHAPTER 3

A D O B E P H O TO S H O P TO O L S

For editing your photographs, Photoshop Elements gives you a toolkit in

Quick and Expert modes. The tools in the toolbox can be used to pick,
improve, sketch, and view images.

TOOLBOX IN THE QUICK

MODE
In the Quick mode, a limited number of simple tools are available in the
toolbox. Zoom, H, and, Quick Selection, Eye, Whiten Teeth, Straighten,
Type, Spot Healing Brush, Crop, and Move are the tools available in this
mode.
 TOOLBOX IN THE EXPERT
MODE
The toolbox in the Expert mode is more comprehensive than the toolbox in
the Quick mode. The tools are organize into the following logical groups:

1. View
2. Select
3. Enhance
4. Draw
5. Modify
 CLASSIFICATION OF
PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS
TOOLS

In Adobe Photoshop Elements, certain tools perform similarly. Let's take our
time and learn the functions of each fundamental tool.

MOVE TOOL
The move tool is the first tool in the Photoshop Toolbox, which is placed in
the top right corner. When the move tool is selected, click and drag it to move
any object or image to where you want it to be

You'll notice a note that says "show transform controls" when you click on
the move tool if you look closely. When you click it, the image you're editing
will be in a position that allows you to move it. Holding the shift key on your
keyboard while positioning your cursor near the edge of the image will allow
you to drag it to the desired location.

THE RECTANGULAR
 MARQUEE TOOL
Drawing selection outlines is done using the second tool in the toolbox. In
other words, it is used to create a selection of Photoshop layers in various
forms, such as rectangles, ellipses, single-pixel vertical and horizontal lines,
squares, circles, etc. The rectangle is selected by the marquee tool by default.
The device with the image that resembles a square's perimeter is the one that
it represents.

The figure below shows the four different types of marquee tools. They are
the single row marquee, single column marquee, elliptical marquee, and
rectangle marquee tools.
 LASSO TOOL
The third tool in the toolbox is the lasso, which may be used to draw a brand-
new selection ring around an object. Each mouse click leaves a line in the
process as shown in the figure below.

There are three main various types of lasso tools, and while they all let you
choose portions of an image, they do so in slightly different ways. The
polygonal lasso tool creates a polygonal straight-edged selection outline, or
angle shape, while the magnetic lasso tool clips the selection outline to the
edges of the item as you move your mouse cursor around it. The lasso tool
draws freedom selection in a straight line as illustrated below.
 SELECTION TOOL
The selecting tool, which resembles a paintbrush, is the next available tool.
The object selection tool locates and automatically selects an object inside a
specified area. Before using the selection tool, ensure the layer is always
selected. The selection tool allows you to copy or paint an object after
selecting it. You can use it however you see fit. By just dragging a rough
selection outline around an object, you can select it using the object selection
tool. With the quick selection tool, you may quickly choose an object by
simply painting over it with a brush. While fast selection is carried out
automatically by Photoshop, object selection is done manually. The magic
wand tool enables you to swiftly choose portions of your photographs and do
independent modifications on them; it is typically used to select solid
backgrounds and color areas.
 PLANT TOOL
A crop tool is a tool used to crop, or trim, an image's edge. For instance, you
may use the crop tool to sort of crop out any extra space if your image has it
on the left, right, top, or bottom. The other approach to make use of it is if we
want to slightly reduce the size of our canvas.

When you open this specific tool, there are three different tools: the crop tool,
the perspective tool, and the slice tool. The crop tool eliminates the area
around the selection from the image. Cropping a picture and correcting
common distortions or perspective issues need the usage of a perspective
tool. You can produce several pictures from a single image or layered
Photoshop file by using the slice tool.
FRAME TOOL
The frame tool is used to make a frame that serves as a placeholder for
photos. For users who are new to Photoshop, the Frame Tool is intended to
make putting images into shapes both straightforward and intuitive.

The frame tool's nice feature is that it may be used for mockups. Only if there
is an image there will the frame tool function.

As an illustration, if you were creating a mock-up for a site design, you could
use the frame tool to indicate where you wanted to place your photographs
before sizing them. Therefore, it functions for every image on your website.

Because you should mark up the design before creating a mockup for a
website. Therefore, the layout should come first, but you should also consider
the content flow, where to place the material, how to organize it, and other
factors. Therefore, this is a fantastic tool for annotating print, periodicals,
internet, and other media.

The layout of magazines, print projects, and the majority of websites may all
benefit from adding a digital animation or design thanks to this simple-to-use
application that is also a lot of fun to use.

EYEDROPPER TOOL
An image's colors can be sampled using the eyedropper tool in Photoshop. It
is primarily used for photo editing and is used to choose a color. This is such
a basic tool, yet it has a lot of power because it essentially controls the
project's color scheme. From a photograph, you can sample colors.

The wonderful thing about this is that you can use the eyedropper tool to
select a color from the sky in an image of, say, a sky, even if you ultimately
decide that light blue or whatever color you chose is not what you want., and
using it is a ton of fun since you can use the eyedropper to pick up any hue
you require for your project. So you may work with colors and use colors that
you extract from an image for your project.

SPOT HEALING BRUSH

TOOL
The spot healing brush tool is a tool that helps you clean up imperfections
and marks from an image. If there was anything wrong with the image, you
may fix it with this program.

The spot healing brush can be used, for instance, to correct a mistakenly
scrawled spot on an image without having to undo your previous actions.

BRUSH TOOL
The brush tool is used to brush, as suggested by its name. It functions for h,
in h, and with many Photoshop tools, including the eyedropper, spot healing
brush, and tool.
With this tool, you can accomplish a number of tasks. You can choose the
type of brush so that we can work with all brushes. Even the brush's softness
can be adjusted. You can create a soft round pressure to create opacity, a firm
round pressure, and a soft flow all around the opacity. You can use dry media
brushes as well.

CLONE STAMP TOOL

The most fundamental retouching tool in Photoshop is the clone stamp tool. It
picks up pixels from one region of the image and paints over them in an other
region. Pixel refers to the small dots that make up an image's representation
in a computer's memory. The clone stamp tool is used to eliminate distracting
or undesired things from photographs. This is a terrific technique to improve
an image or just replicate what you already have and place it somewhere else.
 HISTORY BRUSH TOOL
The history brush tool in Photoshop allows you to go back in time and
change certain aspects of an image. In the form of undoing, it returns you to
your previous actions.

ERASER TOOL
The eraser tool turns pixels translucent or changes their backdrop color. The
backdrop will be revealed when you delete, including the texture and color of
the background. Click on the tool that is circled in the image below to use the
eraser.
 GRADIENT TOOL
Color and transparency are blended using the gradient tool. You can use it to
make an image where the colors blend into one another. It is a very helpful
Photoshop tool since it can be used to rapidly fill in blank spaces and make
website backdrops.

When compared to the paint bucket tool, the gradient tool offers more than
one color.

BLUR TOOL
To apply a blur effect to an image, use the blur tool. In other words, it makes
an image's contrast lessened. Additionally, you can adjust it for size,
hardness, and strength to achieve the desired impact.

Simply select the blur tool, move it over the area of the image you want to
blur, and then click on the image.

DODGE TOOL
In Photoshop, the exposure can be modified with the Dodge tool. It increases
the brightness and lightens certain portions of an image. As a highlighter, it is
also useful.

PEN TOOL
You should consider points when using the Pen tool. The pen tool produces
points. It's interesting to note that Photoshop offers a variety of pen tools to
best fit your creative preferences. Look at the illustration below to see the
various pen tools.

You can draw straight lines and curves with the Pen tool, which is also the
default pen tool.

You may create trails with the Freedom pen tool that look like they were
drawn with a pencil on paper. With the freedom pen tool, anchor points are
added as you draw. The locations on a path that permit a change in direction
are referred to as anchor points.

TYPE TOOL
Instead of typing out lengthy paragraphs or generating documents that are
entirely text, people who use Photoshop to create text primarily want to add a
visual element to their Photoshop artwork with brief words. Your messages
can be typed in using a variety of accessible styles.

Horizontal Type Tool: The most popular type tool is horizontal. It enables
horizontal, left to right typing of solid letters. When you simply select the
Text tool, this is the one that is utilized. The shortcut key on the keyboard for
turning on the active horizontal type tool is T.

Vertical Type Tool: With the help of the Vertical Type Tool, you may write
your words up and down rather than left to right.

The Horizontal Type Mask Tool: converts your text into a mask, providing
you with a design or pattern that complements the design of your image. It
can be used for many entertaining Photoshop techniques. It will immediately
map the layer under the text and utilize that information to "color in" your
type.

Vertical Type Mask Tool: similar to the Horizontal Type Mask, the Vertical
Type Mask Tool writes letters up and down rather than left to right.

When we choose the type tool, a variety of options appear, including a font
family where we can modify the font's regular, bold, and italic styles.
Alignment, text color, and font size are all selectable.

Font: allows you to choose from a variety of fonts, including Arial and
Times New Roman.

The font size: can be changed to increase or decrease the text's point size.

Font Alignment: You can decide whether you want the text to be flushed to
the right or left, centered, or both.
Font Color: You can select multiple colors for the text by using font color.

Duplicates can also be created using drag and drop.

PATH SELECTION TOOL

A complete path is chosen by the path selection tool. Objects are simple to
select, move, and edit. Click on the circular tool that resembles an arrow to
use the path selection tool.

RECTANGLES TOOL
The rectangle is only used for shapes. We have the rectangle, ellipse, triangle,
polygon, line, and custom shape tools in this specific tool. The last option is
referred to as a custom shape tool because you can select from a wide variety
of shapes.
 H AND TOOL
The h, and tool hovers over various image elements. You can therefore use it
to pan to the right, to the left, and to tilt up until down while you are not
zoomed in.

When you zoom in, you can use the handle on the front. In order to zoom in,
simply press the letter Z. You can take the h and tool and move it around by
holding down the spacebar.

ZOOM TOOL
For easier viewing, things can be made to appear bolder or smaller using the
zoom tool. When it is selected, you may use the zoom tool to zoom in and out
of an image. Pressing the letter Z will also zoom in for you., and on a PC, it
will zoom out if you hold down the back out option.
 CHAPTER 4

USING THE ENHANCED QUICK

MODE

We'll walk you through the panels in this section so you can adjust and edit
your images. These panels consist of frames, textures, and effects.

The exposure, color, sharpness, and other elements of an image can be easily
fixed using the Quick mode, which collects fundamental photo-editing tools
in one location. Using the Effects, Textures, and Frames panels, which are
available next to the adjustments panel, you may edit your images as well as
turn them into artistic works of art that seem professional.

There are ten thumbnails in each panel. Every option is a real-time preview.
The effect, texture, or frame is added to your image by clicking one of the
thumbnails. Once the mouse pointer is hovered over the thumbnail, the names
of various effects, textures, and frames are shown.
 HOW TO APPLY
PHOTOSHOP EFFECT
Applying an effect will change the way your image looks. To understand the
effect's appearance on the image before applying it, click the various Effects'
clickable thumbnails.

ARTISTIC EFFECTS
Retouch your photographs with effects based on well-known artwork or well-
liked art styles in just one click. Choose from stunning artistic effects to add
to every part of your photograph. To get the desired results, you'll also make
specific tweaks to the effects.
Photoshop Elements offers a total of thirty aesthetic effects. To select your
preferred effect in rapid and expert modes, click Effects.

CLASSIC EFFECTS
There are eleven presets for Classic effects, including cross-process, vintage,
and black and white effects. To view the variations that are available inside
the preset, click on a Classic result.
 AUTO-SMART EFFECTS
It examines the available image and offers choices with various effects
applied based on the image's content. other options:

Auto1, Auto2, Auto3, Auto4, Auto5

TINT EFFECT
It gives the image a tinge of color (such golden, sepia, or green). other
options:
Copper, Golden, Sepia, Green, Blues

SEASONS EFFECT
The image is given a season effect. available versions include: Spring,
Summer, Autumn, Winter, and Snow

PENCIL SKETCH EFFECT.

It uses a technique to make the image resemble a pencil sketch. other options:

Gentle Lines, Stippling, colored pencil, charcoal, and pencil sketches in

pencil

TOY CAMERA EFFECT

It uses a technique to make the image appear to have been captured with a toy
camera. other options:

Toy Camera, Holga, Lomo Blue, Lomo Contrast, and Lomo Green

BLACK AND WHITE

EFFECTS
The image is given a Black & White appearance. Possible options include:
Simple B&W, Silver, Old School, Platinum, and Tinted Black
 LITHOGRAPH EFFECT.
The image is given a lithograph look. other options:

• Sepia

• Black

• Copper

• Blue

• Green

CROSS PROCESSES
EFFECT
It mimics the results of processing film in a chemical solution designed for
another type of film. other options:

Blue wash, Green wash, Purple wash, Orange selection wash, and Deep Blue
wash.

SPLIT TONE EFFECTS

It provides the effect of coloring the highlights in a black, and white image
one color, and also the shadows another color. Available variations: Split
Tone, Blue Tone, Red Tone, Green Tone, Grey Tone
 VINTAGE EFFECTS
It provides a vintage effect to the image. Alternative forms:

Vintage Leak, Faded Vintage, Vintage Color, Sepia Glow, Heavy Vintage

LIGHT LEAKS EFFECTS

It applies the influence of light on the negative of an image that has leaked
into the light-tight chamber of a camera. alternative forms:

• Diffuse color, Burnt Edges, Soft Leak, White Leak, Yellow Streak

TEXTURES
Use the Textures section to decide on among 10 textures you can apply to
your image. Textures simulate diverse surfaces or backdrops that the image
could possibly be written on. For example, older than paper look, chipped
paint texture, rough blue grid, chrome feel.

Textures are applied as a brand-new layer with a layer mask. To remove or

lessen texture from particular places (such as the face or skin), you can adjust
the layer mask in expert mode.
 APPLYING FRAMES TO
IMAGES
To apply Frames: Select one of the 10 available frames for your image using
the Frames panel. The perfect fit for the frame is done automatically. You can
also move or change the image's frame. By double-clicking the frame while
using the move tool, you might accomplish this. In expert mode, you can
change the backdrop color from white to any other option by adjusting the
color Fill layer.
 CHAPTER 5

IMPROVING AND FIXING IMAGES

W I T H P H O TO S H O P

The goal of designs is to express creativity in a way that produces a stunning

image. We'll walk you through the process of taking amazing photos of your
memories in this part. We'll go over how to sharpen, swap colors, add blur,
and clone pictures.

HOW TO CLONE IMAGE

AREAS, REPLACE
COLORS, AND ADD BLUR

In Photoshop Elements, you can improve your images by blurring parts of

them, changing their colors, or cloning specific areas. Use the brush tool to
change colors, the clone tool to duplicate a specific area of the photo, and the
blur tool to add blur to your image. These tools will be available for you to
select from the toolbox.
HOW TO SOFTEN OR BLUR
THE EDGES OF YOUR
DESIGNS

By removing detail, the blur tool smoothes out difficult edges or spots in an
image. A cluttered background might be blurred to help your topic stand out
more. Blur filters are another option that you have for this.

Press R or select the Blur tool from the Enhance section toolbox to blur an
image in quick mode. Then select Toolbox from the menu:

Mode: It describes how the blurred pixels interact with other pixels in the
image.

From the brush pop-up menu, Brush It sets the brush tip. Click the brush
drop-down in the pop-up to access various brush shapes, and then pick a
brush from the list.

Size: It establishes the brush's pixel-based dimensions. Enter a size in the text
box or move the slider for the dimensions.

Strength: Strength describes how much blur is applied with each stroke.

Sample All Layers: Every layer that can be seen is hazy. Only the active
layer is blurred if you deselect this option. To blur a specific area of the
image, just drag the mouse over it.

Replace Color in a Photo

A picture's color can be changed. Specific colors in your image can be easily
replaced with the Color Replacement tool. Using a distinct color, such as red,
you can paint over a specific hue, such as a yellow flower in an image. Using
the color Replacement tool will also allow you to make color corrections.
Select the brush tool from the Draw area of the chest or press B to change the
color in expert mode. Then, from the brush tool settings bar, select the color
Replacement brush. From the brush menu in the settings bar, choose a brush
size.

● Choose a low percentage for Tolerance to replace colors that are

comparable to the pixel you clicked, or a higher percentage to replace
a wider range of colors.
● Keep the blending mode for mode set to color.

Choose one of the following options for Limits:

Discontiguous: replaces the color sampled where it appears below the

pointer.

Contiguous: Contiguous hues with the color immediately below the pointer
are replaced.

Choose one of the sample techniques listed below:

Continuous: samples color continuously as you move the color replacement

tool.

Once: As soon as you start dragging the color replacement tool, a single
sample of color is displayed.

Backdrop swatch: whenever you move the color replacement tool over it, it
replaces the area that contains the background color.

Select anti-aliasing to give the areas you fix a smooth edge. Choose one of
the following to determine the foreground color:

Using the Eyedropper tool, choose the foreground color.

● Move the mouse cursor on the color on Windows, then click

Alt+Click.
● Move the pointer over the color on a Mac while pressing
Option+Click.
● Then select the desired color using the color picker tool in the
toolbox and drag it into the image.

CLONE IMAGES OR
SPECIFIC PORTIONS OF
 IMAGES

You can use the Clone Stamp tool to duplicate things in your shot, remove
flaws in the image, or paint over objects with a picture sample. Additionally,
you can copy a portion of one image into another.
Select the Clone Stamp tool in the toolbox's Enhance section when in expert
mode, or use the keyboard. If you choose, set options in the options bar after
that.

Brush: you can use a brush to set the tip. To choose a brush thumbnail, click
the arrow next to the brush sample, choose a brush category from the Brushes
pop-up menu, and then click the brush sample.

Sample All Layer: Select Sample All Layers to collect data samples (copies)
from all visible layers. Deselect this option if you only want to sample data
from the current layer.
Sizes: determines how many pixels the brush will be. You can either type a
size in the text box or use the size slider.

OPACITY: UNLEASHING
SUBTLE ELEGANCE
Opacity is the key to infusing your artistic endeavors with an air of subtle
elegance.

Adjust the transparency of the paint you apply to reveal the canvas beneath.

Effortlessly slide the opacity lever or input your preferred level of

transparency.

MODE: BLENDING ART

AND PIXELS
The Mode feature harmoniously blends your creative essence with existing
pixels.

In "Normal Mode," fresh pixels are laid over the original foundation,
allowing your artistic flair to flourish.
ALIGNED: MAGIC AT YOUR
FINGERTIPS

The Aligned feature enchants your brush with magical capabilities.

Sampled essence moves gracefully alongside your artistic wand, regardless of

pauses and resumptions.

Choose Aligned to eliminate undesired elements seamlessly.

Deselect alignment for recurring motifs or artistic variations.

CLONE OVERLAY: A
REALM OF CREATIVE
CHOICES
Step into the captivating realm of the Clone Overlay, where creative choices
abound.

Select "Show Overlay" to apply mystical visibility to your brush size.

Define opacity percentage within the Opacity text box.

Choose "Clipped" to confine the Overlay within your brush's boundaries.

Opt for "Auto Hide" to let the Overlay vanish while you work.

Dare to intrigue with the "Invert Overlay" option for mesmerizing color
inversions.

UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVE

POWER
Position the pointer on any open image to reveal the perfect sampling point.

Press the Alt key (Option key in macOS) and click to duplicate pixels.

TWO PATHS TO TREAD:

Drag or click to color within the same image, indulging in your artistic
expression.

Venture forth and bring your creative vision to life across different images.

PHOTO MERGE STYLE

MATCH: THE ART OF
VISUAL HARMONY
Apply the alluring style properties of one image to another for visual
harmony.

Create an exquisite fusion of artistic essence with the Photo Merge Style
Match feature.

Work with a collection of images, seamlessly intertwining their styles.

Select the perfect style to update the image, resulting in flawless

masterpieces.

REIMAGINING
PHOTOMERGE:
UNLEASHING THE POWER
OF STYLE TRANSFER
Begin your creative journey by opening the image and navigating to Enhance
> Photomerge > Photomerge Style Match.

Populate the style bin with pictures exhibiting strong stylistic properties and
intricate details.

To apply the desired style to your image:

1. Double-click the design image in the style bin, or

2. Drag the image from the style bin to the Design Image
placeholder.

Refine your masterpiece using the options within the Edit panel:

Intensity: Control the level of design transfer, from subtle to 100% style.

Clarity: Enhance local contrast and bring out crisp details in darkened
regions.

Details: Elevate the global contrast of your image.

Style Eraser: Remove the applied style from specific areas.

Style Painter: Reapply the design to previously removed areas.

Soften Stroke Edges: Smooth out hard edges caused by style erasing and
painting.

Transfer Tones: Infuse tones from the design image, adding an artistic
touch.

Click "Done" to see your image transformed with the applied style.

THE ART OF SHARPENING:

ELEVATING IMAGE
CLARITY
 ● Sharpening enhances edge definition in images, perfect for camera or
scanner-captured pictures.
● Remember to sharpen on a separate layer for future adjustments and
set the layer's mixing mode to luminance for color preservation on
edges.
● Use layer blending controls to prevent sharpening in highlights and
shadows, avoiding loss of detail.
● Reduce image noise before sharpening to avoid accentuating it.
● Apply multiple rounds of subtle sharpening after color correction and
resizing.
● Tailor your sharpening to the desired output (print or web).
● Auto Sharpen offers a quick and precise enhancement of clarity
without over-sharpening.
● The Sharpen Tool targets soft edges, providing increased clarity.
Adjust Strength value to avoid over-sharpening.
● Explore the Modify Sharpness panel for advanced sharpening
controls not found in the Sharpen Tool or Auto Sharpen.

Effortlessly sharpen your image by choosing Enhance > Auto Sharpen.

USING SHARPEN TOOL:
PERFECTING IMAGE
CLARITY
Select the Sharpen tool from your toolbox to begin the journey towards
crisper images.

Options Bar: Refining the Sharpening Experience

● Mode: Determine the blending of applied paint with existing pixels
in the image.
● Brush: Set the brush tip by choosing a brush category from the
Brushes menu and selecting a thumbnail.
● Size: Define the brush size in pixels by dragging the size pop slider
or entering a value in the text box.
 ● Strength: Specify the level of sharpening with each stroke.
● Sample All Layers: Decide whether to sharpen all visible layers or
only the active layer.

HOW TO PROTECT DETAIL:

BALANCING
ENHANCEMENTS
1. Select "Protect Detail" to enhance details and minimize pixelated
artifacts.
2. Deselect this option for more pronounced and exaggerated
sharpening effects.

Now, you're all set to drag over any part of the image you wish to sharpen.

PRECISE SHARPENING
WITH MODIFY SHARPNESS
Choose Enhance > Modify Sharpness to access the precision of sharpening.

Select the Preview checkbox to visualize the changes.

Experiment with the following settings to fine-tune your sharpening:

● Amount: Adjust the sharpening intensity to increase or decrease the
contrast between edge pixels, achieving a greater appearance of
sharpness.
 ● Radius: Control the number of pixels near the edge pixels affected
by sharpening, adjusting the radius value to observe its impact.
● Remove: Choose the sharpening algorithm for the desired effect:
● Gaussian Blur: A technique employed by the Unsharp Mask filter.
● Lens Blur: Detects edges and detail, providing finer sharpening and
reduced halos.
● Motion Blur: Attempts to reduce blur from camera or subject
movement.
● Angle: Set the direction of motion for the Motion Blur selection.
● More Refined: Opt for slower processing to achieve precise blur
removal.

UNLEASH THE POWER OF

UNSHARP MASK FILTER
The Unsharp Mask filter emulates a traditional film technique used to
sharpen edges in an image, correcting blur introduced during various
processes. This filter is beneficial for images intended for both print and
online viewing.

The Unsharp Mask filter identifies pixels that differ from nearby pixels by
the specified edge, increasing their contrast by the specified amount. Pixels
within the defined radius are affected accordingly, making lighter pixels even
lighter and darker pixels even darker.

It's essential to note that the effects of the Unsharp Mask filter may appear
more pronounced on screen than in high-resolution print output. Therefore,
when preparing images for print, experimentation is key to finding the
optimal settings for your specific image.

MASTERING IMAGE
CLARITY WITH THE
UNSHARP MASK FILTER

Adding Distinction to Reduce

Blurriness
The Unsharp Mask filter is a powerful tool that enhances image clarity by
reducing blurriness. Within the Edit space, you can select an image, layer, or
specific area and access the Unsharp Mask feature by choosing Enhance >
Unsharp Mask. Once you've made your selection, you can fine-tune the
settings for optimal results.

FINE-TUNING WITH
UNSHARP MASK SETTINGS
To achieve the best outcome, it's essential to understand and adjust the
following Unsharp Mask settings:

● Amount: Determine the extent to which you want to increase pixel

contrast. For high-resolution printed images, an amount between 100,
50, and 200 is typically recommended. Experiment with different
values to find the perfect balance for your image.
● Radius: Specify the number of pixels to sharpen around edges. For
high-resolution images, a radius between 1 and 2 is generally
suggested. Lower values sharpen only the edge pixels, while higher
values sharpen a broader range of pixels. Keep in mind that the effect
is less noticeable in print than on-screen. For instance, an Enhance >
2-pixel radius represents a smaller area in a high-resolution printed
image.
● Threshold: Determine the pixel threshold for identifying edge pixels
to be sharpened. This setting is crucial in preventing the introduction
of noise, particularly in images with flesh tones. Experiment with
threshold values between 2 and 20 to find the optimal setting. The
default threshold value (0) sharpens all pixels in the image.

With these refined Unsharp Mask settings, you can elevate the clarity of your
images, whether they are intended for high-resolution print or captivating on-
screen displays. Embrace the power of the Unsharp Mask filter and witness
your images come to life with enhanced distinction and reduced blurriness.
 CHAPTER 6:
E N H A N C I N G Y O U R C R E AT I O N S
WITH SHAPES AND TEXT

ADDING TEXT - A VISUAL

ELEMENT WITH IMPACT
Adding text to your Photoshop images is a powerful way to convey short yet
impactful messages, infusing your creations with a visual element that
captures attention. Whether you want to add captions, titles, or striking
quotes, I'll guide you through the process of adding text in Adobe Photoshop.
First things first, ensure you have your desired image imported and ready for
enhancement. Follow the steps below to effortlessly add text to your
masterpiece.

Step 1: Embrace the Type Tool

Begin by selecting the Type tool from the toolbox, situated in the palette.

Locate the text icon in the toolbar, which resembles a captivating "T."

Click and hold the text icon to reveal an array of text-writing options,
unlocking endless possibilities for your creative journey.
Step 2: Exploring Alternate Text Options

After clicking on the "T" icon, hold the mouse down to unleash a treasure
trove of alternate text options.

Delight in the freedom to choose the perfect text style that complements your
artistic vision.

From bold and elegant to playful and captivating, each alternate text option
offers a unique way to express your message.

With the Type tool at your disposal and a myriad of text-writing options, you
are now equipped to add that extra spark to your Photoshop images. Unleash
your creativity and watch your creations come to life with the power of
words. Remember, adding text is not just about conveying information; it's
about evoking emotions, leaving a lasting impression, and transforming your
images into true works of art.

To initiate typing, simply click on any of the preferred options displayed in

the graphic above.

Should you desire to adjust your text to fit a specific element, you can
achieve this by selecting the text tool and subsequently creating a text box
precisely where you intend it to be placed.

Achieving Text Mastery: Harnessing the Power of Character and Paragraph

Menus
To attain complete control over your text in Adobe Photoshop, the Character
and Paragraph menus offer an array of essential tools. With these menus, you
can adjust line spacing, kerning, and delve into more in-depth options to
perfect your typography. If you're unable to find these menus, don't fret; you
can easily access them by clicking on "Window" and selecting "Paragraph."

CUSTOMIZING TEXT WITH

CHARACTER MENU
The Character menu primarily focuses on the finer details of your type,
allowing you to fine-tune the font style, size, and other specific attributes.
Every alteration made in this menu is intricately linked to the individual
characters, shaping the overall aesthetics of your text.

MASTERING TEXT LAYOUT

WITH PARAGRAPH MENU
In contrast, the Paragraph menu is your go-to destination for adjusting the
overall block of text and ensuring precise alignment. This menu empowers
you to control the spacing between lines, manage paragraph indents, and
tailor the alignment of your text with utmost precision.
Experimenting with Menu Icons

Feel free to explore and experiment with the various icons within both
menus. Simply click and drag these icons to witness the changes and
understand their influence on your text.

Creating Text and Shapes with Flair

With Photoshop, you have the incredible ability to enhance your images with
text and shapes, imbuing them with color, styles, and captivating effects.
Utilize the Horizontal and Vertical type tools to seamlessly craft and edit text,
adapting it to fit your vision.

Single-Line vs. Paragraph Text:

Unleashing Artistic Freedom
Single-Line Text: Each line of single-line text stands independently,
expanding or contracting in length as you edit it. Unlike paragraph text, it
does not automatically wrap to the next line. To create a new line of text,
simply press Enter.

Paragraph Text: In contrast, paragraph text adheres to the boundaries you

specify, wrapping naturally within the paragraph structure. This allows for
better organization and layout of your text blocks.
Embrace the creative possibilities offered by Adobe Photoshop, where each
stroke of text becomes an art form on its own. Use the Character and
Paragraph menus to bring your typography to life, and explore the myriad
options to achieve text perfection in your designs.

EXPLORING THE ART OF

TEXT EDITING IN ADOBE
PHOTOSHOP
When you click on a picture using the Type tool, it seamlessly transitions into
edit mode, allowing you to effortlessly enter and modify text. It's essential to
commit any changes made to the text before proceeding with other
operations, such as selecting menu commands. The Type tool remains in edit
mode until you encounter the Confirm and Reject buttons located below the
text.

Adding Text with Finesse

To add text to your masterpiece, follow these simple steps:

● Choose either the Horizontal type tool or the Vertical type tool from
the toolbar, catering to your desired text orientation.
● To create a single line of text, click within the image to set an
insertion point for the type.
● For paragraph text, employ the drag-and-drop method to form a
textbox, providing the perfect canvas for your text.
● Now, embark on the creative journey of personalization by choosing
your preferred type options. The tool option bar allows you to
customize the font, style, size, and color of your text.
● Type the characters you desire to see come to life on the canvas. If
you haven't created a textbox, simply press Enter to initiate a new
line.

Text in Its Own Layer: Managing Your Creations

With the addition of text, a new layer materializes in its full splendor. To gain
an overview of the layers and their arrangements, press F11 in the
professional mode.
Committing the Text Layer: Sealing Your Artistry

To solidify your text creation, you have two options to commit the text layer:

● Embrace the Confirm button, which marks your final approval, or

● Utilize the Reject button to discard any changes and return to your
original state.

Mastering the art of text editing in Adobe Photoshop opens up boundless

possibilities for your creativity. Whether you're crafting stunning typography
or adding meaningful messages to your images, let the Type tool be your
trusty companion on this artistic journey. Remember to commit your text
layer, savor the magical layers of your creation, and revel in the beauty of
your artistic vision coming to life.

MASTERING TEXT
CUSTOMIZATION: A
WORLD OF OPTIONS
Committing Changes with Confidence

To confirm your text edits and embrace the final version of your creation,
you have two equally effective methods:

1. Simply click on the Confirm button, signifying your approval and

 satisfaction.
2. Alternatively, press the Enter key on your numeric computer
keyboard for swift validation.

VENTURING BEYOND THE

TEXTBOX
Step into a realm of endless possibilities as you venture outside the confines
of the textbox. To explore further, just click within the image, freeing
yourself to explore other captivating tools within the tool cabinet.

UNLOCKING THE
POTENTIAL OF THE TYPE
TOOL
The Type tool holds the key to a world of customization, allowing you to
tailor your text with exquisite precision. In the option bar, immerse yourself
in a plethora of type tool options to bring your creative vision to life:

Font Family: Apply the perfect font family to your new or existing text,
ensuring each word is a reflection of your artistic intent.

Font Style: Craft your message with a flourish by applying font styles like
bold to your text.
Font Size: Adjust the font size to achieve the ideal impact and readability for
your audience.

Color Menu: Infuse your text with vibrant hues, selecting from an array of
colors to add a splash of personality.

Leading Menu: Determine the space between lines of text, optimizing the
flow and readability of your composition.

Tracking: Exercise control over the character spacing, harmonizing the

overall appearance of your text.

Faux Bold: Amplify the emphasis of your text by applying a bold style, even
if your chosen font lacks a native bold option.

Faux Italic: Embrace the allure of italics with ease, applying the style to your
text, regardless of your font's native capabilities.

Underline: Create a striking effect by underlining your text, adding a touch

of emphasis to your message.

Strikethrough: Employ this unique style to make a bold statement, drawing

attention to your text with a striking line through it.

Align Text: Whether your text orientation is horizontal or vertical, customize

the alignment to perfection. For horizontal text, choose between left, center,
or right alignment. For vertical text, opt for alignment at the top, center, or
bottom.

With these exceptional type tool options, your text becomes an extraordinary
canvas for expression. Unleash your artistic flair and watch your creations
come to life with the power of personalized typography.
Toggle Text Orientation: Unlocking Versatility

By employing the Toggle Text Orientation feature, you can effortlessly

switch between vertical and horizontal text orientations. Transforming
vertical text into horizontal or horizontal text into vertical becomes a
seamless task, allowing you to explore endless possibilities.

Warping Text: Infusing Creativity

With the Warp Text option at your fingertips, you gain the power to distort
and manipulate text on the selected layer. This unique capability opens the
door to artistic experimentation, enabling you to create captivating visual
effects and push the boundaries of creativity.

Anti-aliasing for Enhanced Smoothness

By applying the Anti-aliased feature, you enhance the appearance of your

text, making it appear smoother and more refined. Embrace this technique to
achieve a polished and professional look, ensuring your text seamlessly
integrates into your composition with flawless clarity.
Employ the Text on Shape Tool to effortlessly incorporate text into various
shapes at your disposal. To achieve this, simply select the Text on Shape tool.
If you wish to swiftly switch to a different text tool, press the Option key and
click on the tool currently in use.
Select the desired shape from the available options to which you wish to add
text. Use the indicator to drag and shape the chosen shape within the image.
To add text to the image, hover the mouse over the path until the indicator
changes, indicating text mode. Click on the desired point to insert the text.
You can modify the text in the same manner as you would edit regular text.

After successfully adding text to your design, the next crucial step is to click
on the "Commit" button to finalize the text placement.
Custom Text Placement for Specific Shapes

For certain shapes, you might encounter specific requirements for text
placement. In such cases, ensure the text is written within the designated
boundaries of the shape.

Dynamic Text Adjustment

To achieve the perfect text alignment and positioning, utilize the dynamic
text adjustment feature. Move the text along the path either inside or outside
the shape by holding the cursor while clicking and dragging the mouse.
Notice the text appearing in a tiny arrow, guiding you through the precise
adjustment.

Flexibility of Text Path

Experience the flexibility of the text path as you effortlessly drag the
indicator to a specific area, allowing the text to adapt seamlessly both inside
and outside the designated region.
SECTION 2: TEXT ON SELECTION
TO O L
Revolutionizing Text Placement with Text on Selection

Discover the Text on Selection tool, a remarkable addition to your text

placement repertoire. This tool enables you to add text along the outline of a
path that has been meticulously created from a variety of elements.

Transforming Selection into Text-Ready Paths

As you commit a selection, watch it seamlessly transform into a path, serving

as the canvas upon which you can effortlessly type your desired text.

Activating the Text on Selection Tool

Begin your text transformation journey by selecting the Text on Selection

tool. If you need to make swift adjustments to the current text tool, simply
press the Option key and click on the tool currently in use.

With these powerful text placement tools at your disposal, you can elevate
the impact of your designs and create captivating compositions that leave a
lasting impression. Embrace the versatility of the Text on Shape and Text on
Selection tools, allowing your creative vision to take flight and produce awe-
inspiring results.
Afterwards, proceed to position the indicator precisely over the object you
wish to select within the image. Drag the indicator until you achieve the
desired selection. If necessary, utilize the Offset slider to make size
adjustments to your selection.

Once you confirm the selection, it is automatically transformed into a path.

To insert text into the image, simply hover the mouse over the path until the
indicator changes to indicate text mode. Click on the desired point to add the
text seamlessly.
Once you have added text, you can edit it just like regular text. Once you are
done adding and editing the text, click on "Commit" to finalize the changes.
Alternatively, if you wish to start over, you can cancel the process and begin
your workflow again.

U S E T H E T E X T O N C U S TO M
PAT H TO O L

To add text along a custom path, utilize the Text on Custom Path tool. If you
need to switch to a different text tool swiftly, simply press the Option key and
click on the tool that is currently in use.
Draw a custom path over the image, tailoring it to your unique vision and
artistic intent.

Committing or Canceling the Path

Once you have created the custom path, you have the option to either commit
or cancel it. This allows you to finalize your design or make adjustments as
needed.

Refining and Redrawing the Path

To further enhance the custom path or make alterations, click on "Modify"

within the tool selections bar. This grants you the freedom to refine and
redraw the path, ensuring precision in every detail.

Node Adjustment for Flawless Paths

Utilize the nodes that appear on the trail to make seamless adjustments. By
manipulating these nodes, you can fine-tune the path to perfection.
Adding Text to the Custom Path

Once you have completed shaping the path to your satisfaction, you can
seamlessly add text to it. Simply click the mouse at any point on the trail to
incorporate your desired text.

Text Customization like Normal Text

The text added to the custom path can be easily modified, just like regular
text. Enjoy the same level of creative freedom and customization while
editing your text.

Finalizing Your Text Placement

After successfully adding and editing text along the custom path, solidify
your design by clicking on "Commit." This marks the completion of your text
placement.

Elevate your design game with the power of custom paths, enabling you to
craft text placements that perfectly complement your artistic expression. With
the ability to refine, redraw, and seamlessly incorporate text, your creative
vision can truly come to life in every detail. Experiment, refine, and create
with confidence as you harness the versatility of custom paths in your design
endeavors.
CREATING AND UTILIZING
MASKED TYPE
You can harness the power of Horizontal and Vertical Type Mask Tools.

The Horizontal Type Mask tool and Vertical Type Mask tool: enable you to
create text selections with unique shapes. These versatile tools offer a range
of possibilities, allowing you to experiment with various text selection
borders.

CRAFTING CAPTIVATING
VISUALS WITH MASKED
TYPE
Embrace the art of cutting text out of an image to showcase the background
or seamlessly paste the selected text into a new image. By utilizing masked
type, you can infuse your creations with a touch of creativity and
individuality.

Personalization and Expression

Delve into the world of creative exploration by experimenting with different

selections. The flexibility of masked type empowers you to personalize your
images and compositions, unleashing the potential for captivating visual
storytelling.

Elevating Your Designs with Custom Text Shapes

The beauty of masked type lies in its ability to transform text into distinct and
captivating shapes. Unleash your imagination as you manipulate the form of
your text to create visually stunning and attention-grabbing designs.

Seamless Integration of Text and Image

Seamlessly integrate your text into images, adding depth and meaning to your
compositions. The art of masked type opens up a realm of possibilities,
allowing your text to interact harmoniously with the visuals, enhancing the
overall impact of your work.
Uniqueness and Originality

Celebrate your creativity by exploring the vast potential of masked type. The
ability to cut, paste, and shape text selections provides a unique platform for
expressing your originality and artistic vision.

Embrace the magic of masked type to elevate your designs, creating a visual
narrative that captivates and resonates with your audience. Discover the joy
of personalized text shapes and unlock a new realm of creative expression
within your images and compositions.

TEXT SELECTION AND

EDITING IN EXPERT MODE
Selecting the Target Layer

In expert mode, begin by choosing the specific layer on which you desire the
selection to appear. For optimal results, avoid creating the type selection too
close to a text layer. Ensuring sufficient spacing enhances the effectiveness of
your text selection.

You can harness the Power of Horizontal and Vertical Type Mask Tools.

Utilize the Horizontal Type Mask tool or the Vertical Type Mask tool to
achieve the desired text selection. These powerful tools allow you to create
selections with unique shapes, adding a touch of creativity to your
compositions.

Unleashing Text Customization

Immerse yourself in the realm of text customization by selecting additional

type options and entering your desired text. As you proceed, the type
selection border elegantly takes shape within the image, perfectly aligned
with the active layer.

EDITING TEXT WITH

EXPERT PRECISION

Text Layer Flexibility

Once you have created a text layer, the possibilities for editing and refining
your text become virtually boundless. Exercise your creative freedom by
making adjustments, applying layer commands, and customizing your text
with ease.

Text Insertion, Modification, and Deletion

Unleash the power to insert new text, make alterations to existing text, and
even delete text within text layers. With such dynamic editing capabilities,
your text can adapt and evolve to suit your artistic vision flawlessly.

Style Inheritance for Text Layers

If any styles are applied to a text layer, all text within that layer inherits the
attributes of these styles. This ensures a cohesive and harmonious
appearance, maintaining the visual integrity of your design.

Step into the expert mode of text selection and editing, where every stroke of
creativity finds expression with precision and finesse. With the freedom to
customize text selections and seamlessly edit text layers, your designs take on
a new level of sophistication and impact. Embrace the art of text
manipulation and discover the potential for creating captivating and visually
stunning compositions.

TEXT ORIENTATION
ADJUSTMENT
Dynamic Orientation Control

Explore the flexibility of altering the orientation of a text layer to either

horizontal or vertical, giving you the power to customize the appearance of
your text. When a text layer is vertical, the type lines run from top to bottom,
while in the horizontal orientation, the type lines extend from left to right.

Methods to Change Text Orientation

Select one of the following methods to change the text orientation as per your
preference:

● Choose the Horizontal Type tool or the Vertical Type tool (or opt for
the Move tool and double-click the text) to activate the orientation
adjustment feature.
● In expert mode, effortlessly select the text layer within the Layers
panel to access text orientation modification.

Streamlined Text Editing

When you click within an existing text layer, the type tool automatically
adapts to the orientation of the layer at the insertion point, simplifying the
text editing process. You can conveniently position the insertion point within
the text to perform any of the following actions:

● Click to set the insertion point.

● Select one or multiple characters that you wish to edit.
● Enter new text or make desired alterations.

Determining Type Size

The font size plays a crucial role in defining how prominently the text
appears within the image. The physical size of the font depends on the
image's resolution, with a capital letter in 72-point text approximately
measuring 1-inch high in a 72-point resolution image. Higher resolutions lead
to a reduction in the given text point size, as pixels are more tightly packed in
higher-resolution images.

Precision in Resizing

For precise adjustments to the size of existing text, you can easily select one
or more characters that require resizing. Alternatively, to modify the size of
all characters within a layer, select the text layer in the Layers panel. Activate
the Horizontal Type tool or the Vertical Type tool to access the resizing
capability.

With an array of orientation adjustments and font size options at your

disposal, embrace the power to refine and customize your text effortlessly.
Unlock the potential for artistic expression and seamless text editing as you
command complete control over the orientation and font size of your textual
elements.
CUSTOMIZING TEXT SIZE
Size Adjustment in the Options Bar

Take advantage of the versatility provided in the options bar to effortlessly

enter or select a new value for the text size. Notably, you have the freedom to
input a size larger than 72 points, ensuring precise control over the text's
dimensions.

Flexible Unit of Measurement

The value you input for the text size is automatically converted into the
default unit of measurement. However, if you wish to use an alternative unit
of measurement, simply enter the desired unit (e.g., in, cm, pt., px, or pica)
following the numerical value in the Size text box.

Applying Stylish Effects to Text

Elevate the visual appeal of your text by applying captivating effects to it.
Every effect available in the consequences panel can be seamlessly applied to
text layers, allowing you to infuse your textual elements with creative flair.

Versatility in Styling

Enjoy the flexibility of applying a diverse range of effects to text,

transforming it into a mesmerizing and dynamic component of your design.
From shadows to glows and everything in between, the possibilities for
stylish text creation are boundless.

Unifying Visual Consistency

When applying effects to text, ensure a harmonious visual presentation by

selecting effects that complement the overall design. By integrating the
chosen effects into the text layer, you create a cohesive and visually
captivating composition.

With precise size adjustments and a myriad of stylish effects at your disposal,
your text takes center stage in your design creations. Experiment, explore,
and unleash your creativity as you seamlessly apply custom sizes and striking
effects to your textual elements, leaving a lasting impact on your audience.

To generate fresh text, compose and finalize the text you wish to utilize.
Afterward, make a selection from the provided presets located within the
Tool options bar. Alternatively, for text that already exists, pick a layer
containing the text. Access the Effect panel and double-click on the
thumbnail of the chosen method that you want to apply to the text.

TYPE WARPING
Warping facilitates the alteration of text to conform to a variety of shapes.
For instance, you can distort text to take on the form of an arc or a wave. This
distortion encompasses all characters within a text layer; individual character
warping is not possible. Additionally, it's important to note that text styled as
faux bold cannot be subjected to warping.

Within the Editing area, opt for a text layer, and then proceed with one of the
subsequent actions:

1. Choose a type tool and click the Warp button found in the tool selections
bar.

2. Navigate to Layer > Type > Warp Text.

After this step, make your selection from the available warp styles in the
design drop-down menu. This chosen style dictates the fundamental shape of
the curved text. You also have the choice to decide whether the warp effect
should be oriented Horizontally or Vertically.

Further customization can be made by entering values for additional

distortion settings. This allows you to control the orientation and perspective
of the warp effect. You can adjust the "Bend" parameter to specify the extent
of the warp, and manipulate the "Horizontal Distortion" and "Vertical
Distortion" to apply a perspective to the warp.
Once you have adjusted these settings to your satisfaction, finalize the
process by clicking the "OK" button.

U N D O I N G T Y P E WA R P I N G

To reverse the warp effect, select a text layer that has already been subjected
to distortion. Then, use a type tool and click the Warp button in the selections
bar. Alternatively, opt for Layer > Type > Warp Text. Within the design
drop-down menu, choose "None," and finalize the process by clicking "OK."
 CHAPTER 7

WORKING WITH COLORS

U N D E R S TA N D I N G COLOR
PRINCIPLES
In Adobe Photoshop Elements, two distinct color models serve as the
foundation for manipulating color. One model aligns with how the human
eye perceives color, encompassing hue, saturation, and brightness (HSB),
while the other model corresponds to how computer monitors depict color
using varying intensities of red, green, and blue, known as RGB.
Additionally, the color wheel is a valuable tool for grasping the interrelations
among colors. Photoshop Elements offers four image modes that dictate the
quantity of colors presented within an image: RGB, bitmap, grayscale, and
indexed color.

The HSB model, grounded in human color perception, elucidates three

fundamental aspects of color:

1. Hue: This signifies the color reflected or transmitted by an object and is

quantified as a position on the standard color chart, typically described by a
name such as red, blue, or green.

2. Saturation: It denotes the intensity or purity of a color, often referred to as

vividness. Saturation reflects the proportion of gray in relation to the hue and
is measured on a scale from 0 (completely gray) to 100 (fully saturated). On
the standard color chart, saturation increases from the center towards the
periphery.

3. Brightness: This refers to the relative lightness or darkness of a color,

quantified as a percentage from 0 (black) to 100 (white).

While the HSB model in Photoshop Elements is instrumental for specifying

color adjustments within the Color Picker panel, it should be noted that this
mode cannot be used to create or edit images.

A. Saturation B. Hue C. Brightness

RGB Model
A significant portion of the spectrum is covered by blending red, green, and
blue (RGB) illumination in varying ratios and strengths. These three hues are
identified as the primary additives. Additionally, the combination of red,
green, and blue light results in white illumination. When two hues intersect,
they yield cyan, magenta, or yellow shades.

These additive primary colors are employed in lighting, video, and display
screens. For instance, your monitor generates color by emitting light through
red, green, and blue phosphors.

COLOR WHEEL
The color wheel serves as a practical method to comprehend and memorize
the interrelation between various colors. The primary additive hues are red,
green, and blue. Conversely, the primary subtractive shades are cyan,
magenta, and yellow. Positioned directly opposite each additive primary is its
corresponding complement: red-cyan, green-magenta, and blue-yellow.

Each subtractive primary is formed through the combination of two additive

primaries, except for its complement. This implies that increasing the
presence of a primary color in your image results in a reduction of its
complement. For instance, yellow is composed of green and red light, but it
lacks blue light. Therefore, when modifying yellow in Photoshop Elements,
you're actually adjusting the color values within the blue color channel.
Introducing blue into your image diminishes the prominence of yellow within
it.

S E T U P O R E S TA B L I S H C O L O R
MANAGEMENT
The implementation of color management ensures a uniform color outcome
across digital cameras, scanners, computer monitors, and printers. Each of
these devices is capable of reproducing a distinct spectrum of colors, termed
as a color gamut. When you transfer an image from your camera to your
monitor and ultimately to a printer, alterations in image colors occur. This
variation arises due to the fact that each device possesses a distinct color
gamut, leading to distinct color reproduction.

Color management translates the colors within an image to ensure consistent

reproduction across all devices, aiming for a close correspondence between
the colors seen on your monitor and those present in your printed image. It's
important to note that while efforts are made to align colors, perfect matching
might not be achieved due to potential variations in the color range
capabilities between the printer and the monitor.
Profiles delineate the color spaces of both the input device and the document.
By employing these profiles' descriptions, the color management system
recognizes the actual colors present in the document. The profile associated
with the monitor instructs the color management system on how to interpret
the numerical values into the color space of the monitor. When utilizing the
profile of the output device, the color management system converts the
numerical values of the document into color values suitable for the output
device, thereby achieving the accurate printed colors.

Device Profiling

To ensure effective color management, it's imperative to either profile your

devices or make use of third-party profiles provided by the device's
manufacturer.

Capture Devices

For devices such as digital cameras or scanners, profiling isn't obligatory.

However, profiling a scanner might be advisable if you aim to faithfully
reproduce colors from scanned transparencies and minimize color correction
efforts in Photoshop Elements.

Monitors

Calibrating and profiling your monitor holds great importance. If you're

utilizing a laptop or another digital display, the manufacturer's provided
profile can be utilized. Alternatively, if you possess a colorimeter and
corresponding software to generate profiles, these profiles can also be
integrated into Photoshop Elements.

PRINTERS
Creating a profile for your inkjet printer typically yields improved outcomes,
although you can achieve excellent prints even without a printer profile by
using the settings available in your printer driver. Numerous printer
manufacturers offer third-party printer profiles via their websites. A distinct
profile is required for each printer, ink, and paper combination. It's also
possible to generate profiles tailored to your preferred ink and paper pairing.
When editing and saving an image in Photoshop Elements, the software can
embed (tag) a third-party profile that mirrors the colors as they appear on
your computer monitor or the device used to create the image. This
embedded profile renders the image's color adaptable, enabling different
devices to interpret its color values. For instance, when transmitting the
image to your inkjet printer, the color management system reads the
embedded profile and decodes the color information using the printer's
profile. The printer then employs this interpreted color data to accurately
translate its color rendition onto the chosen medium.

C O L O R M A N A G E M E N T TA S K S
To implement color management, the following tasks are necessary:

• Configure color management by embedding a color profile and utilizing

device profiles during scanning or printing.

• Calibrate and profile your computer monitor. If you're using a digital

display monitor, employ the profile supplied with your monitor, as stipulated
in your monitor's documentation.

• While printing an image through Photoshop Elements, ensure that the

appropriate color profile aligns with the Color Management section in the
Additional Options panel. Alternatively, if a printer profile is unavailable,
fine-tune colors using the color adjustments within the printer driver.
Additionally, opt for a color setting suitable for your purpose, such as
"Optimize for Printing."
CONFIGURING COLOR
MANAGEMENT
To establish color management settings within Photoshop Elements, follow
these steps: Navigate to Edit > Color Settings. Choose one of the subsequent
color management options and confirm your selection by clicking OK.

1. No Color Management

This option leaves your image untagged. It operates based on your monitor
profile and eliminates any embedded profiles upon image opening and does
not tag when saving.

2. Always Optimize Colors for Computer Screens

This choice uses RGB as the working space for RGB; for grayscale, it utilizes
Gray Gamma 2.2. Embedded profiles are preserved, and when opening
untagged files, it assigns sRGB.

3. Always Optimize for Printing

In this setting, Adobe RGB serves as the RGB working space, and the
grayscale working space adopts Dot Gain 20%. Embedded profiles are
retained, and when untagged files are opened, Adobe RGB is assigned.

4. Allow Me to Choose

This selection grants you the flexibility to pick either RGB (default) or
Adobe RGB when launching untagged files. Upon saving a file, opt for ICC
Profile in the Save As dialog box.

MODIFYING COLOR PROFILES

Typically, the color profile of a document remains unchanged. Photoshop
Elements automatically applies the color profile based on the setting you
select within the Color Settings panel. However, manually altering a color
profile might be necessary in specific situations, such as when preparing a
document for a distinct output destination. Another instance is changing a
color profile to rectify an undesirable behavior that you no longer wish to
enforce in the document. It's important to note that changing a color profile is
recommended for advanced users.

To change a color profile, go to Image > Convert Color Profile, and then
select one of the following actions:

1. Remove Profile: Eliminates the profile, resulting in a document that is no

longer color-managed.

2. Convert to sRGB Profile: Embeds an sRGB profile within the document.

3. Convert to Adobe RGB Profile: Embeds an Adobe RGB profile within the
document.

CHOOSING COLORS
Utilizing the Eyedropper tool facilitates color replication without the
necessity of selecting a swatch. This tool samples the color of a designated
area in your image, enabling you to set a new foreground or background
color. Sampling can occur from the active image, another open image, or
even your computer's desktop.

If you desire the sampled color to remain readily accessible, you can add it to
the color Swatches panel. Additionally, you can specify the sampling area's
size for the Eyedropper tool. For example, it can be set to sample average
color values from a 5x5 or 3x3 pixel area beneath the cursor.

CHOOSING A FOREGROUND
COLOR WITH THE EYEDROPPER
TO O L
To designate a foreground color using the Eyedropper tool, first, select the
Eyedropper tool from the toolbox. Within the Tool options bar, determine the
source from which the color picker tool should sample. You can choose
either "All Layers" or "Current Layer." Proceed with one of the following
actions to pick a color:

1. To select a new foreground color from an image, simply click on the

desired color within your image. Alternatively, to pick a color present
elsewhere on your computer screen, click within your image and drag away
from it.

2. To choose a new background color from an image, press Alt (Option on

Mac) and click on the color you desire.

As you click and drag the Eyedropper tool, the foreground color box will
adjust accordingly. Release the mouse button to confirm the selection of the
new color.

SELECTING A COLOR FROM THE

TO O L B O X
To choose a color from the toolbox, consider the following options:

1. To set both the foreground and background boxes to black and white, click
the "Default Colors" icon.

2. To swap the colors within the two boxes, click the "Switch Colors" icon.

3. To modify the foreground color, click on the uppermost color box in the
toolbox and then choose a color using the color Picker.
4. To change the background color, click on the lowermost color box in the
toolbox and then select a color using the color Picker.

UTILIZING THE COLOR

S WAT C H E S PA N E L
The Color Swatches panel, accessible through Window > Color Swatches,
serves as a convenient repository for frequently used colors in your images.
By clicking on a color swatch within this panel, you can designate it as either
a foreground or background color. You have the ability to add or remove
colors, forming a personalized swatch library. This library of swatches can be
saved and subsequently reloaded for use in other images. You can also
modify the display of thumbnails within the Color Swatches panel by
selecting an option from the More menu.

While you can incorporate numerous colors into the Color Swatches panel,
it's advisable to manage its size and organization for enhanced performance.
Creating libraries can help categorize related or special swatches, as well as
manage the panel's dimensions.

The folder path Photoshop Elements installation folder\Support

Files\Presets\Color Swatches contains various swatch libraries. When you
create custom libraries, saving them in the color Swatches folder
automatically adds them to the panel libraries drop-down menu.
SELECTING A COLOR USING THE
C O L O R S WAT C H E S PA N E L
If the Color Swatches panel isn't already open, access it via Window > Color
Swatches. Then, perform one of the following actions:

1. To choose a foreground color, simply click on a color within the panel.

2. To designate a background color, hold Ctrl (Command on Mac) and click

on a color within the panel.

ADDING A COLOR TO THE

C O L O R S WAT C H E S PA N E L
If there's a color you intend to use frequently, you can save it as a swatch in
the Color Swatches panel. This saved swatch becomes part of the library of
colors within the panel. To permanently save custom swatches, the entire
library must be saved. To add a color, set the foreground color in the toolbox
to the desired color. Then, perform one of the following actions within the
Color Swatches panel:

1. Click the "New Swatch" button at the bottom of the panel. The color
swatch will be added and automatically labeled as "Color Swatch 1."

2. Choose "New Swatch" from the More menu.

3. Hover over an empty area in the bottom row of the Color Swatches panel
(where the pointer changes into the Paint Bucket tool), and click to include
the color.

Next, provide a name for the new color and click on the OK button. If
you're asked to save the swatches library, enter a new name in the Save
window and confirm by clicking the Save button.

Saving and Utilizing Custom Swatch Libraries

1. Perform any of the following actions within the Color Swatches panel:

- To save a collection of swatches, select "Save Swatches" from the

More menu. To make this set appear in the panel's swatch libraries drop-
down menu, save the file to the Photoshop Elements\Presets\Color
Swatches folder (For Macintosh, Photoshop Elements\Support
Files\Presets\Color Swatches). To view the new swatch set in the menu,
you must restart Photoshop Elements.
 - To select and load a swatch library, choose "Load Swatches" from the
panel's menu.

- To replace the existing swatch library with a different one, select

"Replace Swatches" from the panel's menu and pick a library.

R E S E T T I N G A S WAT C H L I B R A RY
TO D E FA U LT C O L O R S WAT C H E S

Select a swatch library from the drop-down menu within the Color Swatches
panel. Then, within the Color Swatches panel menu, choose "Presets
Manager." In the Presets Manager window, opt for "Swatches" from the
preset type menu. Proceed by selecting "Reset Swatches" from the menu and
confirming the action when prompted.

REMOVING A COLOR FROM THE

C O L O R S WAT C H E S PA N E L
To eliminate a color from the Color Swatches panel, choose one of the
following methods:

- Drag the color swatch to the Trash button within the panel and confirm
the deletion by clicking OK.
 - Press the Delete (Option key on Macintosh OS) to change the pointer to
a scissors icon and click on a color within the Color Swatches panel.

2. If prompted to save the library, enter a name in the Save window and click
the Save button.

UTILIZING THE ADOBE COLOR

PICKER
The Adobe Color Picker offers the capability to select either the foreground
or background color by choosing from a spectrum or by defining colors
numerically. Moreover, you can pick colors based on HSB or RGB color
models or opt to select only web-safe colors. You have the choice to select
colors using your system's built-in color picker or a fixed color picker.
Select the color boxes for either the foreground or background within the
panel to unveil the color Picker. Subsequently, click within the color field.
Once this action is taken, a circular marker will indicate the position of the
color within the field, and the numerical values will update to reflect the new
color. Afterwards, shift the white triangles on the slider to transition to a
different color.

Alternatively, to visually specify a color value, you can employ any of the
ensuing methods:

1. Enter the hexadecimal value for your color into the text box situated
beneath the RGB values. (Hexadecimal color values are frequently utilized
by web designers.)
2. For RGB color, select a radio button and define component values ranging
from 0 to 255 (where 0 signifies no light and 255 represents the brightest
light).

3. For HSB color, select a radio button to set saturation and brightness as
percentages, while hue is specified as an angle between 0° to 360°,
corresponding to a position on the color wheel.

Click OK to commence painting with the newly chosen color.

ADJUSTING COLOR,
S AT U R AT I O N , A N D H U E
The Hue/Saturation command allows for the adjustment of hue (color),
saturation (purity), and lightness across the entire image or individual color
components within an image.

Utilize the Hue slider to introduce variations, create effects such as black and
white images (like sepia), or modify the range of colors within a specific
section of an image.
Utilize the Saturation slider to adjust colors to be either more vibrant or more
subdued. For instance, you can enhance the vibrancy of colors within a
landscape by increasing their saturation. Conversely, you can reduce the
intensity of a distracting color, such as a bright red sweater in a portrait.

Utilize the Lightness slider with opposite adjustments to brighten or darken

specific portions of an image. Be cautious not to apply it to the entire image
as this adjustment reduces the overall tonal range.

A LT E R I N G C O L O R S AT U R AT I O N
OR HUE
To modify color saturation, follow one of these methods:

1. Choose Enhance > Adjust Color > Adjust Hue/Saturation.

2. Choose Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Hue/Saturation, or open an

existing Hue/Saturation adjustment layer.

The window contains two color bars representing the colors in their sequence
on the color wheel. The top bar displays the color before the adjustment,
while the lower bar illustrates how the adjustment impacts all hues at full
saturation.

From the Edit drop-down menu, select the colors you wish to adjust:

● Choose "Master" to adjust all colors simultaneously.

● Opt for one of the other predefined color options listed for the color
you want to modify. An adjustment slider appears between the color
bars, allowing you to edit a range of hues.

For Hue, either input a value or move the slider until the colors match your
preference. The values in the text box indicate the degree of rotation around
the color circle from the original pixel's color. A positive value denotes
clockwise rotation, while a negative value signifies counterclockwise
rotation. Values range from -180 to +180.

For Saturation, input a value or slide the slider right to increase saturation or
left to decrease it. Values range from -100 to +100.

For Lightness, input a value or slide the slider right to increase brightness or
left to decrease it. Values range from -100 to +100. Exercise caution when
using this slider on the entire image, as it will diminish the tonal range of the
entire picture.

To discard your changes and start over, click OK, hold down the Alt (Option
on Macintosh OS) key, and click Reset.

ADJUSTING THE RANGE OF

H U E / S AT U R AT I O N S L I D E R S
Follow one of these actions:

1. Choose Enhance > Adjust Color > Adjust Hue/Saturation.

2. Choose Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Hue/Saturation, or open
an existing Hue/Saturation adjustment layer.

Pick a specific color from the Edit menu. Use any of the following methods
on the adjustment slider:
 1. Drag one of the triangles to adjust the extent of color falloff
without altering the range.
2. Drag one of the gray bars to modify the range without changing
the extent of color falloff.
3. Move the gray center portion to shift the entire adjustment slider,
selecting a different color spectrum.
4. Drag one of the vertical white bars next to the dark gray center
portion to modify the color component's range. Expanding the
range decreases color falloff, and vice versa.
5. To move both the color bar and the adjustment slider bar together,
press Ctrl and drag (Command and drag on Mac OS) the color bar.

When you adjust the adjustment slider to fall within a different color range,
its name will reflect this alteration. It's possible to convert up to six individual
color variations into categories of the same color range, such as Red 1 to Red
6.

By default, the color range selected when choosing a color component spans
30°, with a color falloff of 30° on each side. A very low falloff setting can
lead to abrupt transitions in the image.

To modify the range by selecting colors directly from the image, use the
color picker tool and click on the image. Employ the color picker + tool to
expand the range and the color picker - tool to narrow it down.

When using the color picker tool, you can also press Shift to widen the range
or press Alt (Option on Mac OS) to reduce it.

A D J U S T I N G S K I N TO N E C O L O R
The Adjust Color for Skin Tone command fine-tunes the colors in a photo to
enhance natural skin tones. Clicking on a region of skin in the image prompts
Photoshop Elements to adjust the skin tone as well as all other colors in the
image. It's possible to manually fine-tune the brown and red tones
individually to achieve the desired final color.
1. Open the image and select the layer requiring correction.

2. Choose Enhance > Adjust Color > Adjust Color for Skin Tone.

3. Click on a region of skin.

Photoshop Elements will automatically make adjustments to the image's

colors. These changes can be further refined.

To have a better view of the color adjustments happening in real-time, zoom

in as needed.

4. (Optional) Refine the correction by adjusting any of the following sliders:

● Tan: Increase or decrease the brown tones in skin.

● Blush: Enhance or reduce the red tones in skin.
● Temperature: Alter the skin tone colors.

5. When satisfied, click OK. Alternatively, if you wish to discard your

changes and restart, click Reset.

MODIFYING S AT U R AT I O N IN
SPECIFIC AREAS
The Sponge tool modifies the color saturation of a designated area.
Enhancing color saturation using the Sponge tool involves the following
steps:

1. Select the Sponge tool.

2. Configure the tool options in the options bar:

● Mode: Adjusts color saturation. Choose "Saturate" to intensify color

saturation. In grayscale images, "Saturate" enhances contrast. Choose
"Desaturate" to reduce color saturation. In grayscale, "Desaturate"
decreases contrast.
● Brush: Determine the brush tip. Click the arrow next to the brush
sample, select a brush category from the Brushes pop-up menu, and
then choose a brush thumbnail.
● Size: Specifies the brush size in pixels. Adjust the size by dragging
the size slider or entering a size in the text box.
● Flow: Controls the speed of saturation adjustment. Drag the Flow
slider or enter a value in the text box. Then, move the tool over the
part of the image you want to modify.
 CHAPTER 8

WORKING WITH SELECTION

In this section, we'll explore how to automatically pick out a subject within a
photo or utilize the available selection tools to choose a specific part of the
image for further editing.

A selection denotes a defined area within a photograph. When you create a

selection, that area becomes editable, meaning you can make adjustments to
only that portion of the photo, leaving the rest untouched. Selections can be
crafted using various tools, such as a selection tool or a selection command.
A selection is delineated by a selection border, which can be hidden if
necessary. You can modify, duplicate, or remove pixels within this selection
border, but any alterations outside of it are only possible once you've
deselected the selection.

The selection tool resembles a paintbrush. The object selection tool identifies
and automatically selects an object within a specified region. Always ensure
that you have the appropriate layer selected before employing the selection
tool. This tool not only selects an object but also permits you to copy or
manipulate it as needed.

The object selection tool allows you to choose an object by roughly outlining
it with a selection outline. On the other hand, the quick selection tool enables
you to effortlessly select an object by simply brushing over it. Object
selection is a manual process, while quick selection is automated by
Photoshop. Additionally, the magic wand tool offers the capability to rapidly
select areas within your images, allowing for independent edits. It is
primarily employed for selecting solid backgrounds and colored areas.

Adobe Photoshop Elements offers a variety of selection tools for different

types of selections. For example, the Elliptical Marquee tool can be used to
select circular and elliptical areas, and the Magic Wand tool can swiftly
choose regions with similar colors in a single click. More complex selections
can be made using the Lasso tools, and you can also refine selection edges by
applying feathering and anti-aliasing techniques.
Choose a theme Automatically

Automatically selecting a theme is now easier than ever. With a single click,
Photoshop Elements can automatically identify the main subject in your
image. This feature utilizes Adobe Sensei AI technology to recognize a
variety of subjects, including people, pets, animals, vehicles, and toys. To use
this function, simply open a photo in the Quick or Expert mode workspace
and access the "Select Subject" option.
Select "Subject" from the menu by choosing Select > Subject. Allow
Photoshop Elements a moment to automatically identify the primary
subject(s) in your photo. The selected area will be outlined by a moving,
dotted line.
Choose a tool from the toolbar: Quick Selection, Selection Brush, Magic
Wand, Refine Selection, or Auto Selection. Access the Select Subject button
in Tool Options.

In the Guided workspace, go to the Special Edits tab, and select Replace
Background. Click the Select Subject button in the first step of this Guided
Edit.

Refine the Automated Selection

To refine the automated selection, pick a Selection Brush from Tool Options,
and click Add to Selection or Subtract from Selection to modify it.
Alternatively, select Select > Refine Edge for further adjustments.
Use Selection Tools

The selection tools are found in the Tools panel, typically located on the left
side of your screen by default. Please note that you need to be in Expert mode
in Photoshop Elements to access these selection tools.

Rectangular Marquee Tools: The Rectangular Marquee tool creates

rectangular or square selection borders.

Elliptical Marquee tool: the elliptical marquee tool forms circular or elliptical
selection borders.

Lasso Tool: the lasso tool creates freehand selection borders, ideal for precise
selections.

Polygonal Lasso Tool: the polygonal lasso tool forms multiple straight-edged
segments for a variety of borders in selections.
Magnetic Lasso Tool: the magnetic lasso tool forms a selection border that
automatically aligns with edges as you drag over the image.

Magic Wand tool: Automatically selects pixels with similar colors in a single
click.
Quick Selection tool: Rapidly and automatically creates selections based on
color and texture when you click or click-drag an area.

Selection Brush tool: Automatically selects or deselects the area you paint,
depending on whether you're in Quick or Expert mode.
Refine Selection Brush tool: Assists in adding or removing areas from a
selection.

Auto Selection tool: Automatically selects an object when you draw a shape
around it.
Smart Brush tool: Applies color, tonal changes, and effects to a selection.
The tool automatically generates an adjustment layer for non-destructive
editing.

Utilize the Quick Selection tool

The Quick Selection tool selects areas based on color and texture similarity
when you click or click-drag the desired region. The created mark doesn't
require precision as the Quick Selection tool intuitively establishes a border.

The Smart Brush tool functions similarly to the Quick Selection tool,
simultaneously applying a color or tonal adjustment.
Select the Quick Selection Brush tool. In the Tool Options bar, choose one of
the following options:
● New Selection: Allows you to draw a new selection; this option is
the default choice.
● Add To Selection: Lets you add to an existing selection.
● Subtract from Selection: Enables you to remove from an existing
selection; this option becomes available after making an initial
selection.

Choose a brush size from the Brush Picker in the options bar. For larger
areas, use a bigger brush; for more precise selections, opt for a smaller brush.
Click or click-drag over the area containing the colors you want to select,
then release the mouse button to create a selection border.
Refine your selection with the following actions:
● To expand the selection, click the "Add to Selection" button and drag
across the area to include.
● To remove a portion from the selection, click "Subtract from
Selection" and drag across the area to exclude.
● To begin a new selection, click "New Selection" and specify the new
area by clicking or drawing.

Afterward, click "Refine Edge" to make additional adjustments and enhance

the precision of your selection.

Use the Selection Brush Tools

The Selection Brush tool offers two methods: in Selection mode, you can
paint over the area you want to select, while in Mask mode, you can paint
over areas you wish to exclude using a semi-opaque overlay. You can create
a basic selection with tools like the marquee tool or Quick Selection tool and
then fine-tune it using the Selection Brush tool. In Selection mode, you can
add to the selection, and in Mask mode, you can subtract from it.
Choose the Selection Brush tool from the toolbox. You might have to click
the Quick Selection tool in the toolbox and then select the Selection Brush
from the hidden tools list that appears. By default, the tool is configured to
"Add to Selection." To remove from the selection, click "Subtract from
Selection" in the options bar. After that, adjust your Selection Brush tool
settings in the Tool Options bar by following the steps below:

1. Select a brush from the brush presets pop-up panel.

2. Specify the brush size.
3. Choose "Selection" (to add to the selection) or "Mask" (to subtract
from the selection) from the Mode menu.
4. Set the brush tip’s hardness anywhere between 1% and 100%.
Please note that if you're using a soft-edged brush with the
Selection Brush tool, changing the Mode option to "Mask" can
help you visualize the soft edges of the selection.
 5. When in "Mask" mode, specify an Overlay Opacity ranging from
1% to 100%.
6. If you’re in "Mask" mode, click the Overlay Color swatch and
pick a color from the Color Picker to set the mask color. This is
particularly helpful when the mask color is too similar to the
colors in the photo.
7. Draw on your photo to select or deselect specific areas.

Modify the selection in Selection mode by adding to it (on the left), and
subtract from it in Mask mode (on the right).

Use the Refine Selection Brush Tool

Employ the refine selection brush tool to intelligently detect edges and assist
in adding or removing areas from a selection.

Use Auto Selection Tool

You can utilize the Auto Selection tool, available in both Quick and Expert
modes, which automatically selects an object when you outline it. Precision is
not crucial; the outline just needs to define the object you wish to select.

Choose the Auto Selection tool. In the Tool Options bar, select one of the
following options:
● New selection: Allows you to draw a fresh selection, the default
choice.
● Add to selection: Permits the addition of areas to an existing
selection.
● Subtract from selection: Enables subtraction from an existing
selection, accessible after an initial selection is made.

Opt for one of the shapes below to draw around the desired object in the
photo:
● Rectangle: Ideal for outlining rectangular parts of a selection border.
● Ellipse: Useful for capturing elliptical or circular sections of a
selection border.
 ● Lasso: Suitable for outlining free-form sections of a selection border.
● Polygon lasso: Appropriate for outlining straight-edged sections of a
selection border.

Draw around the object in the photo to create a selection border. For optimal
results, focus on one object at a time. After selecting one object, utilize the
"Add to selection" option to incorporate additional objects.

To refine the selection, utilize the following methods:

● To include more in the selection, click the "Add to selection" button
in the options bar and draw over the area to add.
● To remove a portion from the selection, select the "Subtract from
selection" button and draw over the area to subtract.
● For a new selection, click the "New selection" button and draw to
specify the new selection area.

Subsequently, click "Refine Edge" to make further adjustments to the

selection, enhancing its precision.
In Photoshop Elements, you can refine your selection using the Refine Edge
dialog box. To access this dialog, select a portion of an image, right-click the
selection, and choose Refine Edge from the context menu. Alternatively, you
can go to Select > Refine Edge.

On a Mac, open the Refine Edge dialog by selecting a part of an image,

Control-clicking the selection, and choosing Refine Edge.

Within the Refine Edge dialog, you have several options:

1. View Mode: Choose a view mode for your selection from the
view pop-out menu. You can cycle through modes by pressing F.
2. Show Radius: Displays the radius of the edge refinement. You
 can use the Refine Radius and Erase Refinements tools to
precisely adjust the border area for edge refinement. Toggle
between these tools by pressing E. To change the brush size, use
the bracket keys. When refining, pay special attention to soft areas
like hair or fur to capture fine details.
3. Smart Radius: Automatically adjusts the radius for both hard and
soft edges within the border region. Deselect this option if the
edge is consistently hard or soft, or if you want more control over
the Radius setting and refinement brushes.
4. Radius: Sets the size of the selection border for edge refinement.
Use a small radius for sharp edges and a larger one for softer
edges.
5. Smooth: Reduces irregularities in the selection border to create a
smoother outline.
6. Feather: Blurs the transition between the selection and
surrounding pixels.
7. Contrast: Enhances soft-edged transitions on the selection border,
making them more defined. Usually, the Smart Radius option and
refinement tools are more effective.
8. Shift Edge: Moves soft-edged borders inward with negative
values or outward with positive values. Shifting inward helps
remove unwanted background colors from selection edges.
9. Decontaminate Colors: Replaces color fringes with the color of
specifically picked pixels. The strength of color replacement
depends on the softness of selection edges.
10. Important: This option changes pixel color and requires output to
a new layer or document. Keep the original layer so you can revert
back if needed. (To easily see changes in pixel color, select Reveal
 Layer for the view mode.)
11. Amount: Adjusts the level of fringe removal and replacement.
12. Output To: Determines whether the refined selection becomes a
selection or mask on the current layer or creates a new layer or
document.

Deleting a Specific Area

When you erase a chosen portion on a background layer, the designated area
gets replaced with either the background color or a checkered background
pattern (indicating transparent pixels).

You can perform any of the following actions:

• Choose Edit > Erase to eliminate the selection. (If you accidentally erase a
selection, you can select Edit > Undo to retrieve it.)

• Use the Backspace or Delete key to remove the selection.

• Select Edit > Move the selection to the clipboard. You can then paste it
elsewhere.

You can also deselect by clicking anywhere outside the selected area within
the image. However, if you're using a selection tool that relies on clicking to
make selections, like the Magic Wand tool, be cautious as you might
inadvertently make additional selections.
Smoothing Selection Edges with Anti-Aliasing and
Feathering

You can refine the hard edges of a selection through anti-aliasing or

feathering. Anti-aliasing smoothens the jagged edges of a selection by
softening the color transition between the edge pixels and the background
pixels. This process affects only the edge pixels, preserving the overall detail.
Anti-aliasing is particularly useful when you're cutting, copying, and pasting
selections to create composite images.

You can enable anti-aliasing with the Lasso, Polygonal Lasso, Magnetic
Lasso, Elliptical Marquee, and Magic Wand tools. To apply anti-aliasing, you
need to select the Anti-Alias option before making the selection; you cannot
add anti-aliasing to an existing selection.

In the Edit workspace, choose the Lasso, Polygonal Lasso, Magnetic Lasso,
Elliptical Marquee, or Magic Wand tool. Then, activate the Anti-aliased
option in the options bar before making your selection within the image
window.

Blurring Selection Edges through Feathering

Feathering allows you to soften the crisp edges of a selection. It introduces a

gradual transition between the selection and the surrounding pixels by
blurring the edges. This blurring results in some loss of detail at the
selection's edge.

You can create a feathered selection using the Elliptical Marquee,

Rectangular Marquee, Lasso, Polygonal Lasso, or Magnetic Lasso tools.
Additionally, you can add feathering to an existing selection using the Select
menu. The effects of feathering become apparent when you move, cut, copy,
or fill the selection.

Defining a Feathered Edge for a Selection Tool

To create a feathered edge for a selection tool, follow these steps in the edit
workspace:

Choose any of the lasso or marquee tools from the toolbox and specify a
Feather value in the options bar to determine the width of the feathering
effect. The feathering starts from the selection border.

Alternatively, select the Selection Brush tool and pick a soft-edged brush
from the brushes panel in the options bar. Then, make a selection within the
image window.
 CHAPTER 9

C R A F T I N G P H O TO P R O J E C T S

Elements Organizer and Photoshop Elements provide swift and

uncomplicated avenues for expressing your creativity with your photos. You
can transform your images into photo books, greeting cards, calendars,
collages, CD/DVD jackets, and various other projects. Some projects can be
completed directly within Elements Organizer. For others, you select the
desired photos in Elements Organizer and then finalize the project in
Photoshop Elements.

Click on the "Create" button to explore a catalog of projects that lead you
through the process, utilizing professionally crafted templates to help you
fashion your unique project. Once a project is finished, you can either share it
online or print it directly from your computer.

Your projects are organized within Elements Organizer. The project file and
associated subfolders, containing the document or web page files for each
project, are generated on your hard drive. To maintain the connection
between these project files, subfolders, and page files, avoid moving them
through Windows Explorer (on Windows) or Finder (on Mac). Instead, use
the Move command within Elements Organizer.

Why Creating Photo Projects

Photo projects enable you to design polished photo books, greeting cards,
calendars, photo collages, CD/DVD jackets, and CD/DVD labels. The
"Create" button, situated in the upper-right corner of the Photoshop Elements
window, showcases the available photo projects in Photoshop Elements.

These photo projects are saved in the Photo Projects Format (.pse) format.
You have the option to print the photo projects using your home printer, save
them to your hard drive, or share them via email.
If you're working on substantial photo projects with multiple pages, it's
advisable to have at least one GB of RAM for optimal performance.

Create Your Photo Collages

Easily craft delightful photo collages to ensure your memories endure.

Follow these steps to create a photo collage:

1. Open two or more photos in Photoshop Elements. Alternatively, you can

select photos in Elements Organizer. You can select up to eight photos to
create a collage.

2. Click on "Create" > "Photo Collage." Based on the number of selected

photos, a collage is automatically generated. Intelligent auto-cropping focuses
on the most prominent part of the photo (such as a face) and places it within
the collage frames.

3. Choose a layout for your collage from the options provided. Layout
suggestions are displayed based on the number of photos in your collage.
You can select a layout from four categories: Landscape, Portrait, Facebook
Cover, and Instagram.

4. You have the flexibility to add, remove, replace, and swap photos in your
collage.

● To add a photo, click on "Computer" to add photos stored on your

computer. Alternatively, click "Organizer" to select photos from your
 catalog or albums.

● To replace a photo: Right-click on the photo you want to replace.

From the context menu, choose "Replace Photo" to open the "Choose
Photo" dialog. Select the desired photo from your computer to
replace the existing one.

● To remove a photo: Right-click on the photo you want to remove.

 From the context menu, select "Remove Photo."
● To swap photos: You can swap photos between frames in your
collage. Right-click on the photo you want to swap, select the "Drag
to Swap Photo" option, and drag the photo onto the frame with which
you want to swap it. When you see a double-arrow indicator, drop
the photo. The photos between the source and target frames will be
swapped.

When you add or remove a photo from your collage, an updated layout is
automatically applied to the collage.

5. Additionally, you can double-click on a photo to access the heads-up

display (HUD). Use the options in the HUD to rotate your photo left or right,
zoom in or out, replace the photo, or delete it. After making the desired
changes, click the green checkmark to confirm your edits.

6. Select Graphics in the bottom-right corner to choose a background or

frame. Double-click on the desired background or frame to apply it to your
collage.
7. (Optional) Choose Advanced Mode or Basic Mode to select the viewing
and editing mode for the photos you want to work with.

● In Basic mode, you can add and reposition text and graphics.
● In Advanced mode, you have access to the full toolkit and layer
selection. You can use these options to retouch images and edit
layers.

8. Save your photo collage using one of the following methods:

● Click Save in the Taskbar. You can save your photo collage in
various formats such as Photoshop, BMP, JPEG, PNG, and more.
● Click File > Save. By default, the collage/project is saved in your
 photos folder, but you can choose to save collage/projects to a
different location.
● Press Ctrl+S (Windows) or Command+S (Mac OS).

9. Print the photo collage using one of the following methods:

● Click Print in the Taskbar.

● Click File > Print.
● Press Ctrl+P (Windows) or Command+P (Mac OS).

Create Photo Books

Preserve your memories with photo books, wonderful keepsakes. Photoshop

Elements offers a variety of size and theme options, making it simple to
create these cherished items.

To make a Photo Book, select Create > Photo Book.

Perform the following steps in the Photo Book panel and click OK:

1. Choose the size and theme for your photo book.

2. Opt for Autofill with selected pictures if you wish to use images
selected in the photo Bin.
3. Specify the number of pages for the photo book (2 to 78).

The project will open with the following options in the lower-right corner:

● Pages: Displays the pages of the photo book.

● Layout: Shows the arrangement of the photo book.
● Graphics: Allows you to modify the background, frames, and
graphics in the photo book.
Next, do the following:

1. Add photos to your photo book.

2. Include the background.
3. Add frames if you want to feature more photos on one page.
4. Add graphics if necessary.

(Optional) Choose Guided Mode or Quick Mode to select the mode in which
you want to view and modify the photos:

● Quick mode: Enables you to add text and move text or graphics.
● Guided mode: Provides access to the complete toolkit and layer
selection, allowing you to retouch images and edit layers.

To save your Photo Book, use one of the following methods:

● Click Save in the Taskbar.

● Select File > Save. Projects are typically saved in your My Photos
folder, but you can choose a different location.
● Press Ctrl+S (Windows) or Command+S (Mac OS).

For printing your Photo Book, do one of the following:

● Choose File > Print.

● Press Ctrl+P (Windows) or Command+P (Mac OS).
Please note that if a photo used in the photo book has been moved from its
original location on your computer, you won't be able to print the book.
However, you can still save the project.

When you're ready to share your edited photo online, use the Save For Web
feature. Open your photo, choose File, and then select Save For Web. Pick a
format from the file format menu (GIF, JPEG, PNG-8, or PNG-24) and
customize the options as needed. Once you're satisfied, click save to create a
copy of your file without altering the original image.
 CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Adobe Photoshop Elements stands as an indispensable tool for
transforming creative visions into reality. Its significance in the graphics
industry cannot be overstated; in fact, marketing, a vital aspect of any
business, heavily relies on the visual impact created through graphics. Life
itself is profoundly influenced by visual elements, underscoring the
importance of graphic effects on humanity.

This software serves as a powerful means to bridge the gap between

imagination and tangible outcomes, a facet often overlooked by many.
Imagination, fundamental to achieving anything meaningful, finds its
manifestation through graphic design. Some concepts are best conveyed
through images, which possess a clarity that words often lack. Humans,
naturally inclined to comprehend visuals, often grasp ideas more effectively
through images than written or spoken words.

This comprehensive exploration has revealed Adobe Photoshop Elements as

a robust graphic design software. Its intelligent tools facilitate editing and
retouching tasks with remarkable precision. Photoshop serves as a dynamic
tool, capable of translating thoughts, imaginations, and words into concrete
realities. The 2023 version, in particular, offers a user-friendly experience,
making graphic editing both enjoyable and efficient.
With Adobe Photoshop Elements, users gain access to a rich array of
features, providing endless possibilities for creative endeavors. Its intuitive
interface allows users to seamlessly navigate their photo collections, preview
images, and even create engaging slideshow presentations. The key lies in
exploring the software's various tools and menus, as elaborated in this
manual.

In essence, Adobe Photoshop Elements not only offers immense functionality

but also promises a delightful and enriching experience. Regardless of your
creative pursuits, remember to have fun while exploring the boundless
potential of this remarkable software.