Starting with Photoshop can be an exciting yet daunting journey, especially if you're new to the world of photo editing. With so many tutorials and videos available, it can be challenging to know which ones are best suited for beginners like you.
That's why we've compiled this handy guide featuring some of the top free tutorials and videos perfect for those just starting to learn. Whether you're learning the basics of photo editing, exploring the tools, or diving into creative projects, these resources are designed to provide you with a great starting point on your Photoshop adventure.
1. Getting started with Photoshop
https://www.sitepoint.com/getting-started-photoshop-5/
This tutorial is all about getting started with Adobe Photoshop. It breaks down the basics into simple, easy-to-follow steps, making it perfect for beginners. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by Photoshop's menus and features, this guide will help you navigate them with confidence.
You'll learn essential terminology like panels, document windows, and dialog boxes, as well as how to customize your workspace to suit your needs. The tutorial covers common tasks like masking, making selections, and resizing images, along with frequently asked questions to address any lingering doubts.
If you're looking for a quick visual overview of getting started with Photoshop, check out this helpful video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA8IdkF559s
2. Beginner's Guide to Photoshop Tools
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/beginners-guide-to-photoshop-tools/
This tutorial provides a detailed explanation of various tools available in Adobe Photoshop. It introduces tools like the Move tool, Rectangular Marquee tool, Lasso Tool, Crop Tool, Object Selection Tool, Frame Tool, Eyedropper Tool, Patch Tool, Brush Tool, Clone Stamp Tool, History Brush Tool, Eraser Tool, Gradient Tool, Blur Tool, and Dodge Tool.
Each tool is described along with examples of how to use them, making it easier for beginners to understand and apply these tools in their image editing projects. Whether you're cropping photos, removing spots, or adding colors, this tutorial offers step-by-step guidance to help you navigate through Photoshop's essential tools.
I also recommend watching this video tutorial for beginners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZACwQzj7TQ
3. Photoshop Layers Learning Guide
https://www.photoshopessentials.com/photoshop-layers-learning-guide/
This guide features 10 tutorials covering everything from the basics of layers to advanced techniques like layer groups, alignment, and opacity settings. Each tutorial is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions and downloadable PDFs for offline reference.
After working through the guide, deepen your understanding with this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj9fxeJvpjo
4. How to Use Filters in Photoshop
https://www.agitraining.com/adobe/photoshop/tutorials/using-adobe-photoshop-filters
From creating smoke-like backgrounds to adding glowing edges and abstract textures to your pictures, filters offer endless creative possibilities. This tutorial covers the basics of starting to use filters, including accessing them from the Filter menu and understanding how they work. You'll also explore advanced techniques like using the Filter Gallery to apply multiple filters at once and customizing filter settings to achieve the desired effect.
To complement your learning, check out this video tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rD8GLO0uPsQ
5. Layer styles and effects
https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/using/layer-effects-styles.html
This comprehensive tutorial not only provides detailed written instructions but also includes a video tutorial on how to utilize the Presets panel effectively. With the guidance of Julieanne Kost, explore everything from swatches to patterns, gradients, and styles, gaining valuable insights into Photoshop's new and improved features.
6. How to Use Adjustment Layers in Photoshop
https://99designs.com/blog/design-tutorials/how-to-use-adobes-adjustment-layers-photoshop-cs6/
This article offers an insightful overview of Adjustment Layers in Photoshop, highlighting their significance in non-destructive image editing. Rebecca Creger eloquently explains each type of adjustment layer, from Brightness/Contrast to Selective Color, providing beginners with a comprehensive understanding of these powerful tools. Whether you're correcting colors, adjusting tonal values, or enhancing vibrance, this guide equips you with the knowledge to efficiently manipulate your images without altering their original pixels.
Additionally, I highly recommend watching this video tutorial on "How to Add & Use Adjustment Layers” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wXTb3XFDEs - for a visual demonstration of these techniques.
7. Retouch and repair photos
https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/using/retouching-repairing-images.html
This comprehensive tutorial delves into the intricacies of image retouching using various Photoshop tools, ranging from the Remove tool to the Clone Stamp tool. With detailed instructions and helpful tips, users can learn to swiftly eliminate unwanted elements, touch up imperfections, and enhance the overall quality of their images.
I recommend complementing this tutorial with this video called "Pro-Tips: Repair and Retouch Photos in Photoshop with Alex Lazaris": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUoYH2KcRO4
8. A Comprehensive Introduction to the Type Tool
https://design.tutsplus.com/tutorials/a-comprehensive-introduction-to-the-type-tool--psd-2905
This article tutorial is an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore the intricacies of Photoshop's Type Tool. It provides a comprehensive guide, starting from the basics like creating text layers to more advanced techniques such as formatting options and warping text. It's structured like a detailed educational book, making it easy to follow along and learn at your own pace.
For those who prefer visual learning, I recommend complementing this tutorial with an educational video available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edVJnYkBk0M - Together, these resources offer a comprehensive learning experience, allowing you to delve deep into the world of typography and enhance your design skills with Photoshop's powerful Type Tool.
9. Free Transform in Photoshop
https://proedu.com/blogs/photoshop-skills/what-is-free-transform-in-photoshop
Delve into the world of Photoshop's Free Transform tool with this comprehensive guide. Written in clear and concise language, it covers everything from the basics of accessing Free Transform to advanced techniques like warp mode and smart object conversion.
This educational resource is perfect for those seeking to enhance their Photoshop skills. Accompanied by three instructional videos, it offers a thorough exploration of Free Transform's functions and features.
10. How To Make Selections In Photoshop
https://www.photoshopessentials.com/basics/make-selections-photoshop/
This comprehensive guide compiles tutorials on various selection tools and techniques. From basic tools like the Rectangular and Elliptical Marquee Tools to advanced options like the Quick Selection Tool and the Pen Tool, learn to precisely select and edit specific image areas. Discover techniques to refine selections and transform them using commands like Free Transform and Transform Selection.
Learn even more about Photoshop's selection tools by watching this video that explores five of the most potent selection tools in Photoshop, offering valuable insights and practical tips to improve your selection-making skills - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbXd_CaH1Ws
11. Brush Presets In Photoshop
https://proedu.com/blogs/photoshop-skills/what-are-brush-presets-in-photoshop
This guide helps you understand brush presets, which are like ready-made tools in Adobe Photoshop that make drawing and painting easier.
Brush presets save time by giving you different brush styles without having to set them up every time. You'll learn how to find, use, and even make your own brush presets. Plus, there are three helpful videos included to show you exactly how it's done. Whether you're just starting out or want to improve your skills, this guide is perfect for anyone interested in digital art.
12. How to Use Actions in Photoshop
https://www.photoshopessentials.com/basics/photoshop-actions/how-to-use-actions/
If you're just starting with Photoshop and want to make your editing process easier, you should check out this tutorial on how to use actions in Photoshop. Actions are like shortcuts that help you automate repetitive tasks, saving you time and effort.
In this tutorial, you'll learn what actions are, how to play them, edit them, and even create your own from scratch. You'll discover how actions can make your editing workflow more efficient, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your work rather than getting bogged down by mundane tasks.
And to complement what you've learned, be sure to watch this video on Photoshop actions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_ydHcDRJ-c
Using Advanced Photoshop Tools
As you learn more about Photoshop, you might want to try out fancier tools to do cooler stuff with your photos. Adobe's got a bunch of these tools in their Creative Cloud subscription. They can do things like fill in missing parts of a picture, make 3D stuff, and fix up photos.
If you want to try these tools, you can purchase a Creative Cloud subscription here. . And if you're not sure where to start or which Photoshop courses would be best for you, just get in touch with us , and we'll help you figure it out.
** Reviewed by Zulay Conrado, Computer Engineer with more than 12 years of experience. Co-founder and Social Media Manager at Dharma Corp Store.