Benton Downs

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Introduction to Adobe Photoshop

Photography Skills Series

Whether you’ve begun tinkering with Adobe Photoshop or haven’t yet clicked on the start button, this class will give you a solid understanding of the power and utilization of the most powerful image editing and design platform available today. With the inclusion of AI, what you can now accomplish is unlimited.

Instructor: David Downs

Designed for photographers who want to move beyond Lightroom or Adobe Camera Raw edits. Instinctively, you KNOW there’s a next level of editing that produces the images that consistently win recognition or are purchased at the local coffee shop. This class is the first step in that direction. It can take years to become a power user of Photoshop, but you don’t get there unless you start learning the basics, and this class will get you there. You will leave with a good understanding of layers, blend modes, selections, adjustment layers, and non-destructive work with virtually infinite control over the final result. Return to an image ten years later and tweak an edit halfway through the process without losing all the following adjustments. This is a very hands-on workshop. Bring your computer, external hard drives, thumb drives, camera, and SD cards. We will prepare your workspace in the morning to suit your needs and ensure efficient workflow. We will cover the basics of layers and how they function to provide a nuanced impact on your image and an easily understandable editing workflow and structure. We will work on selections, adjustment layers, and blending modes in the afternoon. Together, we will work on at least a couple of images from start to finish. The number of students is restricted to six to create a more responsive learning environment.

The Most Amazing & Fun Adventure!

This workshop is the most amazing and fun adventure. It is relaxing, fun, educational under the most beautiful of circumstances. David and Barry are wonderful instructors and you will never forget the beauty of Caddo Lake. It is a must.

Melody S.

One of the very best!

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

Michael Griffith

Loads of fun

Based on my experience, you can be assured that this workshop will be loads of fun and will help you do a better job of accomplishing what you want to accomplish with the equipment that you are currently using.

Larry P

I feel the passion for photography and care for each attendant –

This was my first time with Dave and Barry. I am impressed with how well it was thought out, from the pre-trip Zoom meeting, activity planning, and grouping to post-workshop follow-up. I feel the passion for photography and care for each attendant –Kathy Z

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

How to tell a story…

The Savannah workshop was a perfect blend of photographic opportunities. We captured the history and the spirit of Savannah through a mix of statues and sweet treats, as well as iconic sites throughout the workshop. I learned a lot about how to tell a story with your photos. Thank you!

DeLania T.

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
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Arun K

Stunning Improvement!

After decades of self-taught photography, this workshop was my first learning for professionals. The improvement in my photographs from the first session to the last is stunning to me and my family. I will take these lessons learns learned and build upon them from this point forward.

Tim Z.

WOW! I will never forget that!

Let me show you a better composition . . . WOW! I will never forget that.

Celia J.

Looking forward to joining them again soon!

My first experience with Dave and Barry was great. Everything went smoothly thanks to their organization and planning. Looking forward to joining them again soon. Tom E.

Images to cherish!

You need to experience the Colorado Fall Colors workshop at least once! The variety of scenery, locations, and drives provide every photographer with images to cherish!

Guidance helped me grow tremendously as a photographer

I attended one of the first classes and have not been disappointed ever since. Barry and David continue to fine-tune their instruction and offer classes that are relevant and interesting to a budding photographer. Their enthusiasm for sharing their knowledge and encouragement to me as a student is invaluable and I feel their guidance has
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Kim O

The Class Was Exceptionally Well Thought Out!

I was able to learn more in my four hours with David and Barry than I could have anticipated. The class was exceptionally well thought out and organized! I look forward to future classes!!

Camille U

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.

The unique environment makes it one of a kind!

The Caddo Workshop is a perfect opportunity to build your photographic skills (or use the ones you’ve already mastered)! You are given a great variety of options for sunrises, sunsets, birds, landscapes, and much more. The backdrop of the unique environment makes it one of a kind!

I Learned At Least 4 Specific Things

 I’ve tried to photograph the Milky Way in the past but haven’t been happy with the results. In this workshop, I learned at least 4 specific things from David and, using what I learned, got several Milky Way shots that I’m very happy with. Thanks! – Jeff R

I’m Much More Confident In Manual Mode Now!

The intro class provided clear instructions on composition and settings. I have a good understanding of the impact that different settings have on my photos and am much more confident shooting in manual mode now. Thank you, David and Barry!

Cindy P

They Truly Went Above and Beyond

I really appreciate how much David and Barry do to help everyone get “THE” shot that they came for. On this trip, I believe they truly went above and beyond. This was a great trip! – Marian K.

A Great Workshop For Digital & Print Media Sales

A great workshop that introduces the photographer to the many factors, considerations, options for publishing digital/print media and how to market your business!

Kevin W

Detailed, Helpful & Extremely Patient

I’ve been on a couple of Benton Downs Photography workshops and I appreciate the time and attention they put into planning and executing their workshops. They are very detailed, helpful, and extremely patient with all questions and/or concerns of each workshop participant. I have already signed up for a couple more workshops.

Patience and one on one learning!

 I went on the Caddo Trip in 2020 as well as 2021. Returning to the same location really confirmed how my skills have improved due to the patience and one on one learning provided by David and Barry.

Rhonda H.

Above andAnd Beyond My Expectations

As someone who is still learning composition and seeing the shot, I can always count on David and Barry to ask me the question of what I’m trying to accomplish and help me get THAT shot! Their workshops go above and beyond my expectations.

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

Exactly what I came for

I left with more knowledge of night shooting and light painting, which is exactly what I came for. Great job.

Curtis Rogers

I Feel Like I Can Use The Software Now

Thank you so much for this class. I have watched the training videos but felt so overwhelmed with the information. David made the class easy to follow, informative and instructed in a way that I feel like I can use the software now.

AnneMarie K

The best all-around!

David and Barry’s workshops are the best all-around. They provide the perfect blend of instruction, hands-on teaching, and letting you learn by doing. No overbearing lectures. No hour-long ‘demos’. Just shoot and learn. Also, both of them are really easy to get along with – and amazing photographers to boot. Their itineraries are also well
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Arun K.

Ideal Locations!

David and Barry put together an outstanding focused workshop centered in and around the cypress swamps of Lake Caddo. Both worked closely with a small group to help showcase photographic opportunities and brought you to ideal locations at the optimal times.

Mark T.

A profound impact on my photographic journey!

I signed up for the workshop hoping I’d get a few trophy shots and learn some new skills which I certainly accomplished. What I didn’t expect was to meet a new group of friends, laugh around a campfire, and gain a deep appreciation of the unique location we visited. It’s clear that David and Barry
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Courtney C.

Small Group Size Made This A Great Workshop!

David and Barry’s easy styles, instructional skills and small group size made this a great workshop. The personalized suggestions and the effort they took before the workshop to find truly outstanding locations was the icing on the cake. We highly recommend them…

Keith W & Peggy W

The Workshops Are Ideal!

The workshops by Barry & David are ideal … they provide the perfect combination of learning, locations, and support. The value they provide is unbeatable!

DeLania T

My First Workshop

This photo workshop was my first workshop and I look forward to taking additional workshops with this team.

Norm G.

I Plan On Taking More Classes!

This was my first class with Benton Downs Photography. I learned a lot and plan to take more classes in the future.

Tree R

Patience & Genuine Care

David’s ability to help me with a wide range of learnings – from super basics to extensive adaptations and perspectives is so appreciated. From how to think about composition to nighttime focusing, using a tripod properly, and how to capture the shot overall. Along with the sense of community, vibe, and energy led by David,
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One On One Time Was Helpful. Looking Forward to Next Class!

The class content was informative with great presentation. One on one time for additional questions was helpful as well. Looking forward to the next class!

Kim P

Exactly what I came for

Just wanted to say thanks and let you know how much I enjoyed your Ft. Griffin Workshop. I left with more knowledge of night shooting and light painting which is exactly what I came for. Great job.

Curtis Rogers

Individual Attention!

I have participated in two workshops put on by David and Barry on the subject of Night Sky Photography and I have enjoyed both immensely. They both go out of their way to provide each participant with individual attention as much as possible when needed. Looking forward to future workshops by these two professionals.

Rick O

Terms We Can Understand

 Another great workshop! David explains everything in terms that we can understand. Every level of abilities can learn something new and accomplish the objective for the workshop. – Shauna

Never disappointed!

I have attended several workshops with Barry and David and I have never been disappointed. Workshops are always well organized and I learn a lot from their experience and from one-on-one time with each of them.

James B

I’m signing up for more!

What an amazing workshop! My comfort level with night photography has increased so much due to the hands-on learning that Barry and Dave provided. I’m signing up for more classes.

Rhonda H.

Never disappointed!

I have found the photography workshops with Benton and Downs to be well-planned and affordable. I have been to several workshops and have never been disappointed – Larry Golden

Small Groups!

I’ve really enjoyed the workshops I’ve taken with Benton Downs. Both of the workshop leaders are engaged, dedicated to keeping the group small and have been exceptionally willing to share their expertise and locations.

Mark T.

Loved all workshops I’ve attended

Absolutely loved all the workshops I’ve attended! David is very knowledgeable & helpful and I learned a lot about creativity, my new camera and Lightroom!

Missy J

Relaxed Approach

With each workshop I take from David and Barry I learn more and more. Their relaxed approach and their commitment to making sure my questions are answered and that I get the shot is so rewarding. This won’t be my last workshop with them. – Marsha L

Loved all workshops I’ve attended

Absolutely loved all the workshops I’ve attended! David is very knowledgeable & helpful and I learned a lot about creativity, my new camera and Lightroom!

Missy J

Composition Was Quite Compelling

The discussion around composition was quite compelling. I am so glad I understand the meter and learned the quick buttons on my camera to accomplish what I was going through the menu to do.

Camille U

Priceless Workshop For Getting Images Into Customer’s Hands

Priceless workshop for learning everything after the image is developed to the time it gets into the customer’s hands.

Sanjay K

An excellent adventure!

An excellent adventure–Caddo is a beautiful place, and David and Barry are knowledgeable about the area and its inhabitants. Michael Lustbader

Benton Downs meets and exceeds my expectations

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.
Roberta K.

Walk away with a shot that makes you shout “YAY!”

Loved this workshop. David and Barry had such an organized program. I have been to many programs but never one that gave each person the attention to be able to walk away with that shot that makes them shout YAY! I for sure will attend their workshop again.

Sherri R

You will not find better, more helpful instructors –

You can find other, more expensive workshops, but you will not find better, more helpful instructors. No matter your skill level, you will leave this workshop with an image you can be proud of — Michael G.

Great time learning with David & Barry

Had a great time learning about astrophotography & light painting with Dave & Barry.

Debby R

Perfect Workshop!

Benton Downs is the perfect workshop avenue if you love being out in nature, improving your photo skills, and spending time with fabulous and fun photographers. So nice to be away from the city!

Meaningful & Informative

They have so much patience with every participant to make their experience meaningful and informative for everyone.

I would do it again!

It was well worth my time. I would do it again and plan to do more workshops that are offered.

Larry G.

Workshop dates

Saturday, January 31, 2026, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Location

David Downs Photography Studio

730 E Park Blvd, Suite 108, Plano TX 75075

Morning Workshop Topics - Workspace & Basics

  • 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
  • Understand Layers & Masks

Afternoon Workshop Topics - Editing

  • Adjustment Layers
  • Smart Objects
  • Basic Filters
  • Selections
  • Start To Finish
  • Using AI elements.
  • Exporting for Print or Post

Additional workshop details

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Reserve your spot now!

Important info! We encourage you to create an account when you register so future workshop forms will be prepopulated with your data. Shortly after registering you will receive a confirmation e-mail and a separate email allowing you to pay your registration online. You are not fully registered until your payment is received.

Class size is limited. Reserve now to guarantee a spot.