Introduction to Design Software
Resources to for learning about graphic design and popular design software
Selected Titles
Beginners Guide to Digital Painting in Photoshop by Call Number: TR267.5.A3 B44 2014x
Photoshop CC by Call Number: TR267.5.A3 S65 2014x
Photoshop CC for Beginners by Call Number: Instantly available on hoopla
What is Raster Graphics Editing Software?
Raster Graphics editing software is used to create and edit pixel based artwork.
A pixel is a single point in a picture. Pixel based artwork includes photos or any images that are "raster" formats such as JPEG, PNG, GIF and TIFF. Think of a pixel as a tile in a mosaic. Each is its own color and together many pixels build the image.
Photoshop is a popular commercial graphics editing software. Using Photoshop or similar programs you can:
Touch up photos- Create images for print and web
- Make user interface designs
- Design video graphics
Touch up photosAlternatives to Photoshop
- CanvaCanva is a free web based graphics editing tool where you can edit images and create flyers, posters, graphics and more. Users must sign up for an account. There is a premium option but a good portion of the content and options are available for free.
- GIMPGIMP is an open-source desktop application alternative Photoshop and is free to use on both Windows and Mac. The interface can be confusing if you don’t have experience with other image editing software but there are plug-ins to make it look similar to Photoshop.
- Paint.NETPaint.NET is a free image editing program with professional level tools. Great for touching-up photos or creating high-quality images print and web. Paint.NET is a desktop application for Windows Computers only.
- PixlrA free browser based application that includes many advanced features similar to Photoshop.
Help on the Web
- Photoshop EssentialsTutorials with easy to follow, step-by-step training ranging from basics to photo editing and retouching, photo effects, text effects, and other techniques.
- Adobe Photoshop HelpFind links to FAQs, forums, archived help documents, video tutorials and more.
- Photoshop Visual DictionaryGreat resource for beginners looking for explanations of basic terms and key tasks
Learning at the BPL
- LinkedIn LearningUsing your library card and pin you can access LinkedIn Learning through the BPL website. LinkedIn Learning gives you access to videos and exercise files to learn software, creative, and business skills.
Below are some popular series:
--Up and Running with Photoshop CS6 with Chad Perkins
--Optimal Output with Photoshop CS6 with Tim Grey
--Photoshop CS6 One-on-One: Fundamentals Deke McClelland