Quote:
Originally Posted by orlok
I use Photoshop Elements, so presumably I could spend a bit of time getting to know it beyond brushing up images of toys for my wife's website, and try using it on pictures of friends and family, and maybe get some of the type of results you are demonstrating...?
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There really is a big difference between 'Elements' and the full program, but probably you really don't need all the bells and whistles...
Find some instructional books by Scott Kelby, specifically something that deals with what is called 'Post processing work flow.' This will give you a very simple step-by-step correction process, usually no more than 4-5 steps, to turn the average image into a very good image. (This is NOT removing blemishes, increasing bust lines, or thinning waistlines.) It's how to increase the overall look of the image as the camera 'should' have given but didn't, as in; changing contrast, improving light balance, improving color saturation, removing color casts, and sharpening the image.
Kelby also has some instructional material called "Killer Tips and Tricks." This is where he shows, again step-by-step, how to remove those blemishes, thin thunderthighs, smooth out wrinkles, etc. and a host of other problem solving tools.
There are several very good 'teachers,' but Kelby is the easiest to follow. Deke McClellan is excellent, but a bit hard for the novice to follow, and aims more for graphic design. Kelby has stuff written just for photographers.
Stitchawl