In fact, for the average photographer, the sheer amount of tools may be more than you need. You could be quickly overwhelmed when you first start using it.

There are so many features and tools in Photoshop. Plus, via a File menu option, you can re-open your image (with all layers flattened) in ACR! Why you may NOT want to use Photoshop But keep in mind that the ACR interface is quite different from Lightroom.Īfter completing your edits in ACR, you can open the file in Photoshop and continue editing images. ACR can do many of the things Lightroom can. Double-click a RAW file to use, and ACR will auto open. Then, after using a Layer Mask, you’ll paint with a Black brush to remove the edit and White to add back as needed.Īdobe Camera Raw is a stand-alone plugin that coexists with Photoshop.

First, you’ll apply your edit to the entire Layer. In a way, the Layer Mask works as an on/off switch. In other words, if you want to darken up the sky, you can use a Layer Mask to do just that! A Layer Mask gives you the precision and control to apply your edits to your image exactly where you want them. One of my favorite types of Layers is a Layer Mask. Opacity: This will enable you to adjust the transparency of a layer.Blending Modes: This allows you to “blend” layers together.Adjustment Layers: Edits apply to a new layer and don’t affect individual pixels.Layer Masks: Show and/or hide pixels by painting with white or black.The assortment of Layer tools can help you create artwork that wouldn’t be possible without them: The key to using Photoshop to edit photos is mastering Layers. Compared to Lightroom, Photoshop has more comprehensive editing tools. Photoshop gives you the precision, control, and tools photographers of all levels need. Oh, and you can choose among over 100,000 premium and free Fonts! Fonts! Text: Customize the size, color, and add “Layer Styles.” This lets you create unlimited visual variations.Frame Tool: This allows you to affix photos inside a custom shape.Smart Objects are an advanced tool that can streamline your project workflow. Convert to Smart Objects: This is a file within a layer.Here are some more benefits for designers: They can transform your layers into something unique by “blending” layers together. That is perfect for logo designers!Īnother great advantage of Photoshop for design projects (and photos) is Blend Modes.

That means you can transform the size of your artwork without any loss of quality. Any graphics that you create become Vector layers (shapes and paths).

Lightroom and photoshop