Teach Yourself Visually - Adobe Photoshop CS5 product reviews

OK, in order to get it out of the way, I'll deal with the 'downside' first... this book states it is about Photoshop CS5 - and to a degree that is true, but it's more about "Photoshop in general, with little bits included that cover new features from CS5" - but as we can easily see, though more correct, such a title would NEVER sell. So be aware that this book is all about Photoshop, but updated to be an excellent resource for those just starting out, and aiming to begin with the newest version of this industry-leading application. There, done. Now we can move on to the far more prolific 'upside'.

Starting with the very basics, this book is a great way to get started on the steep learning curve that comes with an application so feature-packed it would literally take PAGES to list them all out. It does an excellent job of giving you not only the low-down on around 150 of the key features and technologies you will need to master, just to be a skilled beginner. This includes selections, layers, masks, adjustments, tools, shapes, brushes and text, and how to manage them all in one document to ensure you get the results you wanted, and maybe a lot more than you first thought possible.

Laid out in a simple 2-page spread per 'feature', with screenshots and easy-to-identify numbered markers and descriptions, this book is most definitely aimed at those who are visually-cued... it's light on text - containing just enough to make the point, but not so much as to drown you in blather. Also, at the end of each 2-page spread, there is a little section with one or two related Q-&-A's, giving you added value and a hint towards taking that skill to the next level, or combining it with something else to give you a powerful new way to explore.

Overall, though it may seem way too basic for an experienced user, for those looking to start on the long, but ultimately rewarding - road of graphic design and image manipulation, this is a key resource you shouldn't overlook, especially if comics - sorry, graphic novels - capture your attention more than text-heavy books. Though the price may seem like a lot, it is a very small investment in your future as a designer, and shouldn't stop you from making the smart choice and buying this.