Adobe Photoshop has become an important tool for the UI/UX designers. Previously, its kingdom was spread among graphic designers only. But with the newer versions, the company has introduced new features that are useful for complete user interface design and easily transform that into HTML for front-end design. In fact, the start-ups hire a graphic designer with Photoshop’s knowledge to make the layouts and then they hire HTML to Photoshop converters. If when you are aspiring to be a developer, you need to know Adobe Photoshop at least the basic parts. The following guide will help you to take your step forward in that direction of learning Adobe Photoshop.
Step 1. Get The Software –
The first step is to get the software Adobe Photoshop CC installed on your computer. You can download the free trial version for seven days. If you have money, you can then purchase the software as a single application rather than the whole Creative Cloud Suite. There are different plans available for individuals, students, and likewise. Otherwise, you can manage to get a crack as most people do.
Step 2. Start With YouTube Videos –
After the software installation phase is done, it is time to get acquainted with the software. You can either go for an eBook if you want to. There are many free eBooks available online for learning the basics of Photoshop. But it is better to go for YouTube videos where you get to see the visual illustration. Your aim is to know all the tools and menu options available. At the end of this phase, you should be able to say instantly what a particular tool can do or what a menu option is for. You are not really doing any productive thing yet in this step. You are just learning the basics. Spend at least seven days to get a full grasp.
Step 3. Take A Paid Course –
There are various sites available online where there are paid courses on Photoshop. But before you can enroll in them, you should know Photoshop’s basics which you have learned in the previous steps. Rather than taking a basic course, you should take up an advanced Photoshop course so that you can learn the tip, tricks, and techniques like a true professional graphics designer. You should be totally dedicated to the course and to the instructor. At the same time, you should check YouTube videos for advanced techniques on Photoshop and things that one can do in Photoshop.
After the completion of the course, if there are any advanced courses, you should also enroll in them. When all is done, you should be confident enough to apply for a job as a Photoshop expert. Keep practicing as much as you can. Whatever you see on the internet, try to replica it. There are enough things on YouTube and items based on Photoshop that are sold online, you should be able to do them.
Step 4. Check The Checklist –
Most of the time, most of the people are not aware of what they have learned and whether there is anything more to learn or not. After you think that you have learned enough, you should check the things you can actually do. You should be a prolific photo editor and you can really do wonders with original photos to make them eye-catching and professionally undetectable. You should be able to do logos, business card, leaflets, posters, t-shirt design and all such graphics designing works like a pro.
The next part is that you should be able to design web templates for web design. This is the most important skill to have as a Photoshop expert. You can design the entire website in Photoshop. That is what professional graphic designer and UI/UX designer do in start-ups. The design has to be professional such that the coders can convert it to HTML easily. In fact, you should also know the technique of how to do it so that you can design and transform effortlessly.
Step 5. Get Some Freelancer Work –
You can never be sure what you have learned and what you can actually do until you do the professional works. There are many freelancing sites like Freelancer, UpWork, or dedicated graphic design freelancing sites like Designcrowd and others. Open your profile in multiple of these websites and upload your sample portfolio. Remember, you are not here to make money but to learn. Therefore, keep your bid price low to get more and more projects. You might come across a lot of problems but there will be solutions available online. Therefore, get into some forum sites and follow Photoshop related threads for solutions.
In summary, you need to learn the basic, get the advanced techniques for all professional works and start working on professional projects and keep sharpening your skills and techniques before you can apply for a professional job.