Course schedule

08 July 2010 10:22

September issue – On sale August 11, 2010.
Module 1: Learn the basics
This month we’re going to take a step back and master the fundamentals. We’ll look at the concept of the digital workflow, as well as the core software techniques you’ll use every day. Spending time in this module will guarantee a solid foundation for the advanced techniques later in the course.

October issue – On sale September 8, 2010.
Module 2: Exposure and contrast
Simple contrast and exposure tweaks are often all you’ll need to polish off a shot. After reading this module you’ll be able to produce punchy, vivid results in moments. Alternatively, if the contrast was difficult to deal with at the point of capture, then we’ll show you how to shoot and process your shots to bring back lost details.

November issue – On sale October 6, 2010.
Module 3: Colour control
In this module we’ll show you the best ways to ramp up the saturation for extra clout, add style by muting the colours, remove casts for better clarity and get creative with white balance. We’ll even teach you how to selectively drain the colour from your shots for funky ‘colour popping’ effects, and also go black & white.

December issue – On sale November 3, 2010.
Module 4: Layers
Understanding layers is the key to a more professional way of working. As well as being able to move on to more creative and advanced styles, the door also opens the to non-destructive editing techniques. It may sound dull, but it’s the ultimate way of working. One key benefit is the ability to fine-tune and adjust your image time and time again without degrading the image quality. The scope and power is immense.

Chritmas issue – On sale December 1, 2010.
Module 5: Selections
If just a small area of your shot is causing you problems, then you need to make a selection. It needn’t be a painstaking and precision task though. The best selections are quick, rough, and cleverly feathered for seamless corrections. It’s a matter of choosing the right tools for the job and making use of Adjustment Layers.

January issue – On sale December 29, 2010.
Module 6: Retouching
It’s time to take control of the finer details. Some distractions and flaws simply can’t be avoided at the capture stage, so we’ll show you how to zoom into your image and fix your shot. The goal is photo perfection and you’ll learn to clear sensor dirt, skin blemishes, ruffled feathers, loose hairs and more besides. We’ll also delve into the world of portraiture and reveal the secrets behind the digital makeover.