Photoshop Basics – Create a Mini Poster
Tools to highlight:
- Move Tool (V)
- Text Tool (T)
- Transform (Ctrl+T)
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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
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Move Tool (V)
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What it is: The Move Tool lets you select and move objects, text, or images around your canvas.
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How it works: Click on an item (like a photo, text, or shape) and drag it to a new position.
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Shortcut: Press V on your keyboard.
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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)
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What it is: The Text Tool allows you to add and edit text on your design.
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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.
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Shortcut: Press T on your keyboard.
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Example: Use the Text Tool to add a headline to a flyer, like “CHEAR Fall Festival.”
Transform (Ctrl+T)
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What it is: Transform lets you resize, rotate, flip, or skew objects and text.
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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.
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Example: If a photo is too large, use Transform to shrink it to fit your design.
Layers Panel
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What it is: Layers are like transparent sheets stacked on top of each other. Each element (text, image, shape) is on its own layer.
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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.
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Example:
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Imagine a poster:
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Background Layer = solid color or image
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Text Layer = event title
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Image Layer = photo of students
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The text will only show on top if its layer is above the photo layer in the panel.
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Class Tutorial
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Walk through poster tutorial with Tutor.
- Watch video in Google Classroom when available
Homework
Due Next Class:
- Save project as JPG
- Upload to Google classroom
- Write a 1-paragraph reflection:
What did you learn using Photoshop this week?