Take Your Photography to the Next Level: Learn Photoshop

Yes! Lightroom is awesome for image editing. But Photoshop is simply more powerful and versatile . . . and for some more fun.

I teach Photoshop (as well as Lightroom image editing) on my group and private workshops – on location and in Croton-on-Hudson, NY.

If you want to take your photography to the next level, learn Photoshop.

The opening image for this post was created from the above image in Photoshop – with some help from Photomatix and Nik Color Efex Pro. I also teach how to use plug-ins artistically - and selectively.

Don't get me wrong. I love Lightroom. It's just that Photoshop offers more creative options for creative photographers.

Explore the light,
Rick

One and Two-Day "Rick's Backyard" Digital Photography Classes in Croton-On-Hudson, NY

If you like travel and outdoor photography, as well as Lightroom and Photoshop, I offer two ways to explore your creative vision in Croton-on-Hudson, NY - just about one hour north of New York City.

My one-day workshop on May 25 offers fast paced learning and fun.

My two-day workshops in June and October offer much more in-depth learning at a slower pace and with more time for personal attention – in the field and on your computer.

I hope you can come to Croton for what I call my "Rick's Backyard Workshops."

Explore the Light,
Rick

Some thoughts on reality - and I really hope to see you at Photoshop World

"Reality leaves a lot to the imagination." - John Lennon.

I agree, and that is one of my favorite quotes on reality.

Here is another cool quote on reality: "I am not interesting in accurate color, I am interested in my own color." Sorry, I don't remember who said that, but again, I agree.

On my recent Florida Photo Caravan Workshop, I was having fun creating my own photo reality in Photoshop, using standard PS features as well as some plug-ins. All the plug-ins I use are listed here. All the images in this post were taken on the Caravan.

I really  hope you can join me at Photoshop World in Atlanta in April, where I will be showing attendees how to alter reality - and create their own photo reality - using plug-ins.

I will also be giving presentations on travel photography and shooting in chilly conditions.

Have fun this weekend creating your own reality.

Explore the light,
Rick

P.S. I also help photographers create their own reality on my workshops. Good fun!

Awaken the Artist Within at Photoshop World – with Plug-ins & Some Basic Photoshop Enhancements

I'm a big fan of plug-ins, because then can transform an OK image (below) into a much more creative image (above). Combined a plug-in effect with some basic Photohshop/Lightroom enhancement and you are on your way to awakening the artist within.

I teach plug-ins on my workshops - and I am giving a seminar on plug-ins (Nik Sofware, onOne Software, Photomatix and Intensify Pro) at Photoshop World 2014 in Atlanta. So yes, HDR will be included. Sign up for Photohshop World today!

Above, after. Below, before.

I am looking for 10 or so original images (straight shots) to play with during my plug-in class. I set up a new Google+ Community – Awaken Your Inner Artist – for just that purpose. Check it out, and post a picture if you plan to attend PSW.

Hope to see you at PSW in Atlanta.

Until then, below is another before-and-after example of how a plug-in (Nik HDR Efex Pro) and few Photoshop enhancements turned a dull shot into a cool shot.

All the plug-ins I use are on my Play and Save on Plug-ins page.

Topaz simplify, just one of the plug-ins I use, is on sale for 50% off until the end of February. Use this code - febsimplify - and this link. I used that plug-in to create the image below.

It's amazing how much we can pull out of a RAW file, and how plug-ins can be used to enhanced an image.

The above image is the result of using some of the controls in Camera RAW and Nik's Color Efex Pro. . .  and then mostly the Spicify filter in Topaz Adjust. The image below is a screen shot of my RAW file in Camera RAW. If you don't have the Topaz Labs plug-ins, you can save a bundle on a bundle. Again, info on all my plug-ins here.

Explore the light,
Rick

Swing By My Classes at Photoshop World In Atlanta - April 8 to 10

I hope you can join me, and a team of super talented photographers and Photoshop/Lightroom experts at Photoshop World in Atlanta, April 8 to 10. Use this code - RSPSW414 - to save $50 when you register.

My classes:

Shooting in Chilly Conditions - I'll take you to Alaska, Arctic, Antarctica and the sub-Artic – and show you how to make good images in challenging conditions.

Travel Photography - I will share my favorite images from my worldwide travels, along with some Lightroom and Photohsop tips.

Awaken the Artist Within With Plug-ins - I will show you how to create cool images, like the one below, with the plug-ins I use. HDR will be included. Speaking of HDR and plug-ins, check out my Nik Color Effects Pro app and my  iHDR app.

See you there . . . I hope!

Explore the light,
Rick