I use PSP7 for everything . I also have Photoshop and Corel. You wouldn't see the difference with any of those packages, they all achieve the same thing. Pick a package and stick with it, it can get very confusing swopping between them. I'm not rubbishing Photoshop by any means, it is the industry standard package and if colour fidelity etc. is important, for example outputting your work to a printing firm, then it is the one to go for. I can't help you with a reference book I'm afraid. The best thing I ever bought was a Wacom graphics tablet. It's no replacement for the mouse IMHO put it is a far more natural tool to use with the graphics pen for some operations.

 

Thanks. I had the impression that PSP seemed to have most of the features I saw folks using in Photoshop. I have figured out over the years that layers are sort of the key to everything. Once, long ago, I had a darkroom (slides to Cibachrome). I love playing with PSP and photos - it's just like the darkroom but more powerful and I can do it with the lights on.

Tony

P.S. Do you use or recommend any third party filters?

 

Damn I should go to bed. The time difference with you guys is a killer! LOL!

I don't use 'em much although some are really useful. Sepia toners, etc.

I think once you've got a good grasp of the meaning of 'Mask' 'Layers' 'Selection' you're well on your way. I think most tutorial books are basic for a reason btw. I've often found that it's thinking about things and using a little imagination that's the key to really progressing. The tutorial will give you an excercise to do with a particular tool, but if you use a little thought you realise that there are so many more things you can do with it! You really are only limited by your imagination and a little practise! O.K. perhaps a lot!