Chapter 10, "Collage Effects" is all about compositing, or image blending. Here you will learn about Clipping Masks, Blending Sliders, Layer Masks and Vector Masks and how you can use them to combine images together seamlessly. Some techniques are as simple as adding borders, and others as complex as the cover of a prior version of this book.
Chapter 11, "Retouching Techniques" can mean different things to different people. From removing unwanted objects to just making an image more presentable, you will learn how to work with the Patch tool, Healing brush, Spot Healing brush, Clone Stamp tool, Vanishing Point, Dodge and Burn tools as well as other techniques to improve the look of your image.
Chapter 12, "Workflow" is now an online video chapter. In this video, Ablan takes you through some of the techniques discussed in the book and he gives a demonstration via a workflow situation. There are also five other bonus videos, which cover line art scanning, channels, shadows, text and background effects, and resolutions.
One thing to keep in mind is that unlike the prior edition of this book which was written entirely by Ben Willmore, Adobe Photoshop CS4 Studio Techniques was taken over by and revised by Dan Ablan. This does not mean that it does not retain the sprit of the Willmore book. Much of his content is still there, but many of the images and the new material are by Ablan and therefore it takes on a little different feel.
That said, I do feel the focus of the book makes it a good choice for someone learning Photoshop. It is also a great book for intermediate and even advanced users. Adobe Photoshop CS4 Studio Techniques will explain Photoshop fundamentals in a clear, concise, and understandable way that will have you saying "at last, I really understand." I highly recommend this book.
Article comments