Photoshop How To

Mastering Photoshop can be a bewildering task for beginning and intermediate users alike because of the vast array of tools and techniques offered by this robust software. To make matters worse, there are often several methods for accomplishing the same task that add an additional layer of confusion.

Today's quick primer from the Creative Layers YouTube channel helps cut through the grease by demonstrating a handful of tips and shortcuts that every beginner should understand before moving on to more complicated techniques. As the unnamed instructor says, "Let's dive in and learn how to unlock the full potential of these hidden tricks."

Tips #1 demonstrates how to use Photoshop's Lasso tool and Polygonal Lasso tool at the same time. He provides timesaving keyboard shortcuts that make the process even easier by enabling you to move back and forth between these two helpful tools to significantly refine your selections.

Second on the list involves turning masked layers into Smart Objects, and there's an important reminder to keep in mind: "When you convert a masked layer into a Smart Object the Layer Mask gets applied and then disappears." But there's a simple way to fix this curious issue: Just drag the Layer mask to another layer that doesn't already have a mask.

Tip #3 involves what the instructor refers to as the "Pen tool Rubber Band option," which requires activating a checkbox that makes it easier to use this tool with precision and see your next moves. The following tip explains why and how to change Photoshop's Layer Opacity using keys on the computer by simply activating the Move tool before selecting the layer you want to adjust. Now you can use the number keys to adjust Opacity up or down.

The lesson concludes by demonstrating a quick navigation trick when working on a large and detailed project that requires you to repeatedly zoom in and out during the process. Here you'll learn a faster and very effective method without relying upon Photoshop's Zoom tool every time you switch.

There's much more great post-processing advice on the Creative Layers YouTube channel, so head over there and check out everything that's available.

And don't miss an earlier tutorial we featured with another image editing expert who demonstrates a simple Photoshop technique that one pro says is the most effective method for converting unimpressive color photographs to b&w masterpieces.