40 Digital Photo RetouchingTechniques

by Joyce J Evans

I normally summarize at the end of the review what I think of the book. But in this case I have to say up front that this is a gorgeous full color book with a CD included for $16.99 retail and a lot less then that at Amazon! It's a fantastic value. Now about the book...

This book is project based and results oriented but there are plenty of explanations as well such as explaining file format types and resolution for example. This book isn't about how to use Photoshop Elements 2 but there is a section of basic information to get you started. There are explanations, tips and shortcuts given in each technique to help you along.

The included CD contains sample images from the book and Adobe Photoshop Elements 2 trial version so you can follow along. Topics are grouped themematically and listed according to the level of difficulty.

To help you get an idea of the types of techniques covered I'll list just a portion here and their chapters so you can get a feel for the content.

The intro has the tips for using Photoshop Element 2 and some image basics.

Chapter 1 is on correcting contrast, how to evaluate the image, correct blurred images and how the pros do it. Also covered is correcting backlighting and brightening a specific spot.

Chapter 2 is on manipulating color, changing a color, desaturating a portion of an image, turn color photos into black and white or a sepia toned picture and more.

Chapter 3 is on enhancing photos such as removing red eye or facial blemishes. You'll learn how to apply make-up, make bigger eyes, remove wrinkles, add a frame or open closed eyes and more.

Chapter 4 is on editing skills and special effects such as cleaning up backgrounds, creating reflections, combining images and stitching panoramas and more.

Chapter 5 covers very special effects such as adding motion blur, casting a fog, making snow, adding TV scan lines and more.

Chapter 6 is about preparing for the web by making a Web banner and a web photo gallery.

All in all this is a great book for beginners to learn how to do a ton of useful techniques. A lot of bang for the buck!

40 Digital Photo Retouching Techniques
by Zack Lee, Youngjin com
Sybex
ISBN: 8931435029
196 pages