Photoshop Tools

The Five Photoshop Basics That Actually Matter When You're Starting Out
Beginner Tutorials

The Five Photoshop Basics That Actually Matter When You're Starting Out

Every beginner I’ve ever taught makes the same mistake in the first ten minutes. They open Photoshop, see the toolbar on the left, and start clicking. The brush tool. The eraser. The smudge tool for some reason. They start painting directly onto the image and then, inevitably, they save over the original. That’s when the panic sets in. I’ve watched it happen in live workshops more times than I can count.

Dodge and Burn in Photoshop: Master Selective Lightening and Darkening
Retouching

Dodge and Burn in Photoshop: Master Selective Lightening and Darkening

Dodge and Burn in Photoshop: Master Selective Lightening and Darkening When I first started retouching portraits, I thought dodge and burn were just basic tools for quick fixes. I was wrong. These tools, when used intentionally, become your secret weapon for adding dimension, enhancing contrast, and guiding the viewer’s eye exactly where you want it to go. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to use dodge and burn effectively—from the fundamentals to professional techniques that will elevate your retouching work.

Dodge and Burn in Photoshop: Master Light Control for Professional Retouching
Retouching

Dodge and Burn in Photoshop: Master Light Control for Professional Retouching

Dodge and Burn in Photoshop: Master Light Control for Professional Retouching When I first learned dodge and burn, I thought they were advanced techniques reserved for professionals with years of experience. I was wrong. These tools are straightforward once you understand what they do and how to apply them correctly. Today, I’ll show you exactly how to use them to enhance your images with precision and control. What Are Dodge and Burn?