Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0: A Visual Introduction to Digital Imaging

Previously a point- and-press film snapshot photographer, I am one of many who have only recently discovered the scope and power of the digital camera. Now seeking to optimise the manipulation of my ever improving images I have made the major move up to Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0. Without Philip Andrews `Visual Introduction', supported further by his active website link, I could not have made the rapid progress I am currently enjoying. I did review alternative publications before buying this most excellent guide - without doubt, one of my better decisions!

Make the most of Elements and your images (4/4 people found this helpful)

For anyone wishing to make the most of their photos using Elements, this book should definitely be high on their wish-list. The author has packed a huge amount of information into its pages, not only dealing with the program and its techniques but the whole image making experience. The content is comprehensive and informative with illustrative screenshots throughout.

Beginning with a brief description of the fundamentals of digital imaging; in terms of capture, editing and output. The subsequent chapters guide you steadily through the latest version of Elements' features (whilst maintaining backward compatibility with its predecessors) and their relation to the imaging process. There are detailed explanations of the program's interface and navigation; using the automatic enhancement tools; lighting adjustments; montage and panoramas right up to publishing images on web-pages, online printing and CD slide-shows. There are useful tips and tricks interspersed throughout the chapters as well as helpful information such as a feature comparison table spanning all four versions of PSE, as well as Photoshop from version 6 to its current incarnation, CS2.

Books such as this prove that Elements can hold its ground when it comes to digital imaging, performing well along side its big brother, Photoshop.

Everything you Need To Know in a Single Book (18/19 people found this helpful)

The title of this book is very deceptive. The sub-title "A visual introduction to digital imaging" is much more accurate and to the point. This isn't a book just about Photoshop Elements, there are plenty of books like that. This book teaches you how to improve the photos you take with your digital camera as well as how to improve them in Photoshop Elements. Let's face it, about half of the problems that can be corrected in Elements can be prevented when the photo is taken. The book is laid out in a logical progression and with short concise explanations. Because the approach of the book is visual (a picture is worth a thousand words even adjusting for inflation) the concepts are easy to understand. Whether you are new to digital photography or are a professional this book presents information you need to take better pictures and then use Photoshop Elements to enhance (or correct other's mistakes because after reading this book you won't be making those errors again). The other advantage of the book is the way it is organized. Let's face it, no matter how good a technical book is, no one will read it from cover to cover. If you do, there is a chance you need to get out of the house more often. The organization of the book makes it easy to find the topic you want without reading the entire chapter. If you know someone who just got a digital camera as a gift, this book would make the perfect companion.

Good introduction to Photoshop Elements & digital imaging (10/10 people found this helpful)

Provides an introduction to the powerful tools available in Photoshop Elements 4.0 (and previous versions). Certainly of use to beginners and new users, but could also help more seasoned users of Elements.

Produced in a very accessible style, and with plenty of good quality screenshots and photos. Using some good examples of how to use the program tools to achieve specific results, this book complements the original manual very well, often explaining things more clearly.

As the cover says, the book is "a visual introduction to digital imaging". This means it also gives general information and explores related subjects/projects, not specific to Elements (but does often tie these in with program features). Some more experienced users may find this information unnecessary, but the book is an introduction to the whole subject, so many users will find it illuminating.

Those looking for more specific and advanced "how-to" examples, should buy one of the other books that Philip Andrews has written; "Advanced Photoshop Elements 4.0 for Digital Photographers", for example.

Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0: A Visual Introduction to Digital Imaging

Philip Andrews

Reader Reviews:

Rapid developments made easy (8/8 people found this helpful)

Make the most of Elements and your images (4/4 people found this helpful)

Everything you Need To Know in a Single Book (18/19 people found this helpful)

Good introduction to Photoshop Elements & digital imaging (10/10 people found this helpful)

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