Introduction to Photoshop
Introduction to Photoshop
Jan 31, 2026
1 day
Limited to 6 participants
A beginner-friendly introduction to Photoshop and its core tools for simple, effective editing.

The Experience

Designed for photographers who want to move beyond Lightroom or Adobe Camera Raw, this class provides a practical introduction to Photoshop and the tools that make deeper, more flexible editing possible. Photoshop can take years to master, but every photographer benefits from understanding its core structure and workflow. In this hands-on workshop, you will learn the essentials of layers, selections, blend modes, adjustment layers, and non-destructive editing so you can make stronger edits with greater control and flexibility. You will also see how Photoshop allows you to revisit and refine work without starting over, even long after an image was first edited. We will work through key concepts in the morning, then apply them in the afternoon as we edit images together from start to finish. Class size is limited to six participants to allow for a more responsive, supportive learning environment.
Introduction to Photoshop

Workshop Topics

  • Editing...how much is too much? In today's world, is what you see real?
  • Bridge, Adobe Camera Raw & Lightroom Connections
  • File Types
  • Efficient Workspace and Options
  • Working Tabs and Usage
  • Tools
  • Understanding Layers & Masks
  • Adjustment Layers
  • Smart Objects
  • Basic Filters
  • Selections
  • Start to Finish
  • Using AI Elements
  • Exporting for Print or Post

Planning Your Class

Location:

David Downs' Photography Studio, 730 E Park Blvd. Suite 108, Plano TX 75074. Park on the NW side of the building. Studio entrance faces west toward building 720.

Location Tips:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/1ytaaueN5Rthg42g9

Transportation

None Provided

Recommended Gear:

  • A laptop or desktop running Windows or MacOS and a current/up-to-date subscribed or trial to the latest version of Adobe Photoshop
  • Charging/Power Cable for your laptop (outlets/power strips will be provided)
  • Memory Cards with RAW images, USB's, External Drives and a card reader
  • Something with which to take notes (paper & pen)

Other Recommendations:

  • It is IMPERATIVE you understand how to create new folders on your computer and to find them once created. Please spend time familiarizing yourself with this process before class to be sure you get the most out of class.
  • Piximperfect on YouTube is David's favorite Photoshop instructor. Consider watching some of his videos if you want a jump start.

What Our Students Say...

Benton Downs meets and exceeds my expectations

My priorities for a workshop are always to see new places, especially at my age, learn something new, get feedback on my compositions in camera, get ideas for compositions or small scenes or creative ideas that I may not be seeing, meet new people, be in a small group, and offer all of that for an affordable investment. Benton Downs meets and exceeds my expectations by going above and beyond by adding in a zoom meeting before and after each workshop, by offering editing or critique advice during or after the workshop, and with their friendliness and caring about each participant. Anything else is a bonus. I would highly recommend BDW as one of the top workshop groups in the country. Thanks Barry and David!

Roberta K.

No Matter Your Skill Level, You Won’t Be Disappointed!

Sign up for a workshop! Through the one on one coaching of David and Barry, I came away with more confidence in my ability to get great landscape and astrophotos. No matter your skill level, you won’t be disappointed.

Rhonda H

Taking My Photos To Another Level!

This was a great workshop for me. I learned several things that definitely help take my photos to another level.

Marian K

You Walk Away Learning So Much!

I have attended several photography workshops, including with some National names – this one is a class apart. David and Barry bring their down to earth style to the workshop and you walk away learning so much – while actually taking pictures. This is a hands-on lesson – which makes it really interesting. I would absolutely do a workshop with them again.

Arun K

One of the very best!

I’ve participated in a number of photographic workshops. This was one of the very best!

Michael Griffith

Instruction and Independence!

This was a terrific workshop whether you are a beginner or a more experienced photographer. If I needed help or had a question either David or Barry was right there. If I wanted to wander off and work on my own composition, I could do that. The perfect balance of instruction and independence.

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