Photoshop Basics – Create a Mini Poster

Tools to highlight:

  • Move Tool (V)

     

  • Text Tool (T)

     

  • Transform (Ctrl+T)

     

  • Layers panel 

Scripture

Genesis 1:1 (HCSB)“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

  • Why do you think the Bible starts with creation?
  • What does that say about the value of being creative?

Course Content

Photoshop Tools of the week
  • Move Tool (V)

    • What it is: The Move Tool lets you select and move objects, text, or images around your canvas.

    • How it works: Click on an item (like a photo, text, or shape) and drag it to a new position.

    • Shortcut: Press V on your keyboard.

    • Example: If you’ve typed some text and want to place it in the top corner, use the Move Tool to drag it there.


    Text Tool (T)

    • What it is: The Text Tool allows you to add and edit text on your design.

    • How it works: Select the tool, click on the canvas, and start typing. You can change fonts, sizes, colors, and alignment in the options bar.

    • Shortcut: Press T on your keyboard.

    • Example: Use the Text Tool to add a headline to a flyer, like “CHEAR Fall Festival.”


    Transform (Ctrl+T)

    • What it is: Transform lets you resize, rotate, flip, or skew objects and text.

    • How it works: Select the object or text layer you want to edit, press Ctrl+T (Windows) or Cmd+T (Mac), then drag the handles around the box to change its size, angle, or shape.

    • Example: If a photo is too large, use Transform to shrink it to fit your design.


    Layers Panel

    • What it is: Layers are like transparent sheets stacked on top of each other. Each element (text, image, shape) is on its own layer.

    • How it works: You can move layers up or down in the panel to control what appears in front or behind. You can also hide, lock, or group layers to organize your design.

    • Example:

      • Imagine a poster:

        • Background Layer = solid color or image

        • Text Layer = event title

        • Image Layer = photo of students

      • The text will only show on top if its layer is above the photo layer in the panel.

Class Tutorial
  • Walk through poster tutorial with Tutor.

  • Watch video in Google Classroom when available
Homework

 Due Next Class:

  1. Save project as JPG

  2. Upload to Google classroom 
  3. Write a 1-paragraph reflection:

     What did you learn using Photoshop this week?