As I have said before, when you get beyond the second edition of a book, there is a reason and it usually centers on the quality of the information presented. The Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book is no exception. This is the fourth edition of a book that has helped keep Scott Kelby the number one best-selling author of all computer and technology books. No, I didn't say Photoshop books, nor did I say digital imaging books — I said computer and technology; that means all categories.
Being a member of NAPP, I have known of Scott Kelby for years and am familiar with his teaching style and the entertaining way he presents information. If you are not familiar with NAPP, please read my review on Photoshop User magazine to gain more insight on what NAPP is all about and why you might want to join.
The Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book breaks out into 13 chapters but before you get to chapter one you must first pass through the "An Unexpected Q & A Session." As he did in his book The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Book, the Kelby wit is performing to get you to read an introduction to the book once again. Here he explains what the book is and how you should read it, kind like if Abbott and Costello wrote the intro!
Chapter 1, "London Bridge" shows the basics of the new Adobe Bridge 2. Here, the author shows how, after a photo shoot, you can get your images into Bridge, generate a contact sheet, view, organize, move or delete photos. You can add metadata, rename, rotate and sort your files. Chapter 2, "The Bridge" introduces you to more advanced techniques such as creating full-screen slideshows, searching for files via keywords, using stacks, and how to view and edit your metadata. You will also learn how to create metadata templates as well as how to strip the metadata from your photos. You will also learn how to use two monitors to enhance your work style.
Chapter 3, "Raw Deal" explains the changes with regard to the new Camera Raw changes in Photoshop CS3. Now you can not only process Raw files, but JPEGs and TIFFs as well. You will also work with the essential adjustments such as white balance and exposure and with the Clarity Slider, a new tool to Camera Raw that enhances the midtone contrasts to give your image more punch. Chapter 4, "Resized" focuses on getting your sizes right for your photos. Getting your photos to an appropriate size for the use that is required is more than just lopping off some from here or there, it is about what to leave in and what to take out. You will learn the rule of thirds, about custom sizes for photographers and making posters that remain sharp. You will also learn about making your images smaller.
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