Photoshop cs4 for dummies

[Lester]

Hi all,

I have got books and DVDs on using photoshop for astrophotography, and still cannot seem to get the hang of layers, masking and HDR.

Has anyone on here used the photoshop for dummies with any success for astrophotography, where multiple exposure images are merged together to overcome burnouts?

Even using the extensive help menu in CS4 hasn't been much help to me, just end up with a headache.

Has anyone else had such problems; or am I the ultimate Dummy?

Thanks.

[Bassnut (Fred)]

Despite, in hindsight how obvious and intuative it all is, its a head spin to start with, very painfull, but absolutely critical in Astrophotograhy. I resisted resolutely to begin with, but you have to master the layer beast, its worth more than spending more money on gear. Forget generic terestial tutes, a painfull waste of time. If you dont have it, get Ron Wodaskies Zone System book to get the hang of it, you wont regret it. Mastering layers is the single most cost effective step you can take.

[Vince G]

Lester,
Have a look at >www.waid-observatory.com/articles.html>
There are several video tutorials that are pretty good.

Do a google search for more.

Vincent

[matt]

Hi Lester.

I began my journey into PS with the Photoshop for Dummies book and found it quite helpful.

However, I also benefited greatly from searching on-line for video tutorials. I guess it depends on which way you prefer to learn and how you prefer your info presented. Some people like to just read....others like to watch and try and do the same thing as those demonstrating...others have other ways which they find successful.

Personally, I like to listen to people speaking and find my attention is peaked by this method of communication more than the somewhat 'drier' method of following along with the printed word.

Each to their own and all methods have their pros and cons.

Do a Google search for Photoshop video tutorials. Include the words "easy" and "simple" in your search.

Most important of all....just keep using it. It becomes second nature after a while.

I'm still learning how to use it more fully/skillfully...which is half the fun.

Cheers.

[Lester]

Thanks everyone for your replies.

I have tried a few video tutorials and should persist, eventhough our internet connection goes jerky with them, we get about 5 seconds and then have to wait for the next 5 seconds.

A video tutorial may be easier than the books I have tried to follow, as there are some lengthy procedures for masking etc.

Appreciate your help.

[RB (Andrew)]

Lester I have recommended PS for Dummies on numerous occasions to people.
Good to start with.
Your next step is to search for articles on Layering, there's heaps on the net, even step by step guides.
Like Fred said Layers is essential for astro.
Also I second what Fred said, get Ron Wodaski's Zone System !

It has helped me immensely and my last few images have used techniques from this book.