How to Edit Pictures in Photoshop

With the rich toolbar, layering features, effects, and integration with other Adobe programs, there’s really no limit to the creative possibilities. However, the program does come with a fairly steep learning curve.

Learning how to edit pictures will not happen overnight, but by mastering one skill at a time, you can quickly build up your repertoire. 

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Cropping, Rotating, and Resizing

1. Cropping: After opening an image, select the Crop tool from the toolbar (represented by an icon with two overlapping corners). Then, click and drag the border that appears to encompass the area you’d like to retain. Once you’re satisfied with the selected area, hit Enter to crop the image.
2. Rotating: To rotate an image, navigate to the “Image” menu at the top, select “Image Rotation,” and choose your desired rotation option. The available options include 180º, 90º CW (clockwise), 90º CCW (counterclockwise), and Arbitrary, which allows you to specify an angle.
3. Resizing: To resize an image, go to the “Image” menu, and then select “Image Size…” A dialog box will appear displaying settings for Width, Height, Resolution, among others. Make sure to enable the “Resample” checkbox and the “Link” icon (between width and height) to maintain your image’s aspect ratio while resizing. Click “OK” to finalize your changes.

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Working With Layers

1. Concept: Layers in Photoshop can be thought of as different images stacked on top of each other, cumulatively creating the final image. They come in two primary types: content layers (such as photos and text) and adjustment layers (which allow adjustments to color, texture, etc., affecting the layers below them). Layers give you incredible control over your final image when used effectively.
2. Creating and Duplicating Layers: Most layer work is done in the “Layers” panel. To create a blank layer, click the “New Layer” button at the bottom of the panel. To duplicate a layer, allowing you to make alterations without affecting the original layer, right-click on the layer in the panel’s list, select “Duplicate Layer…” and then click “OK.”
3. Deleting Layers: If a layer is no longer needed, you can delete it by clicking the trash can icon at the bottom of the Layers panel.
4. Hiding and Reordering Layers: Use the Eye icon next to a layer in the Layers panel to show or hide it. The layers in the panel are in a “stacking order,” meaning the top layer in the list appears above the others. Reordering the layers changes the final image. Simply click and drag a layer to a new position in the list to change its order.

You may also want to consider these quick and easy-to-use tools from Shutterstock. They can serve as great shortcuts for image resizing, file converting, or collage making. For all your image or footage needs, check the list of our curated photo and footage collections. 

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Cover image via Kaspars Grinvalds

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