Mastering RAW in Photoshop

Course Description

The RAW function in Photoshop is probably the least understood. Yet  it can provide you with the most creative flexibility. Even some of the small pocket-sized digital cameras save RAW images now. Why? Because a  RAW images are the best images you can start with in Photoshop. So whether you’re an art director, graphic designer, photographer, or other Photoshop enthusiast, knowing how to use the RAW function in Photoshop is a must. In this class, you’ll learn how RAW is an integral part of developing your images in Photoshop. Starting with your camera’s RAW file as your photo negative, you can reprocess the file at any time, achieving the results that you want by making adjustments for white balance, tonal range, contrast, color saturation, sharpening and much more. What’s more, you’ll discover that when you adjust a camera RAW image, the original camera RAW data is preserved, so anything you do is reversible. Adobe has also made it easy to open JPEGs in the RAW processor, so you can use the same non-destructive editing function for even more images!  You’re encouraged to bring your own images and come prepared to roll up your sleeves and learn with in-depth one-on-one instruction.   
 

Course Outline

Why use RAW anyway?
Opening a RAW file in Adobe Camera RAW
Opening a JPEG file in Adobe Camera RAW
The dialog interface
Adjusting white balance
Using exposure and recovery
Using fill to open up shadows
Black adjustment
Clarity, vibrance and saturation
Using clarity for portrait retouching
Sharpening and noise removal
Making fantastic black and whites
Toning
New RAW special effects – grain and vignette
Discussion on process versions and profiles
Presets and snapshots for better workflow
Cropping and straightening
Using adjustment brushes
Clone and red eye tools
Eyedropper – finding gray
Lens correction
Setting preferences in RAW

Course Prerequisites

This class assumes you have working knowledge of computers and operating systems. It is assumed you know how to use your mouse, the standard menu and commands and how to open and save files. If you are bringing your own computer, make sure you have the version software that is being taught in the class. In the event that you are not knowledgeable in the use of computers, the instructor will not be able to take time away from the other students to teach you. One-on-one tutoring is available for a fee.