In this course, you will develop your graphic design skills by learning how to use Photoshop, the gold standard in photo editing and design software. This program will help you create work that stands apart from the competition, enables you to brand yourself, and positions you for a rewarding career in the ever-expanding world of graphic design.
Requirements:
Hardware Requirements:
- This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac. Chromebooks are not compatible.
Software Requirements:
- PC: Windows 10 or later.
- Mac: macOS 10.14 or later.
- Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
- Microsoft Word or an equivalent word-processing program.
- Photoshop CC (Creative Cloud) (included in enrollment)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.
Other:
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Instructional Material Requirements:
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:
- The Elements of Graphic Design by Alex W. White
- Exploring Typography
- Your enrollment in this course also includes a 12-month subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan. You will learn how to activate this subscription during the course.
This course will provide you with robust instructions on how to use Adobe Photoshop as a tool to create engaging and effective visuals. Using principles, theories, and time-tested practices of graphic design, you will discover strategies for producing images that convey desired messages, styles, and tones.
You will practice with real-world examples, challenges, and thought-provoking assignments and learn how to determine a client's needs, create work to meet those needs, and assemble your work in an online portfolio to enter the industry. The course's combination of creative, technical, and soft skills will offer you a well-rounded and challenging learning experience.
- Jumping into Photoshop
- Understanding Graphic Design Fundamentals
- Basic Photo Editing
- Selections, Painting, and Using Brushes
- Typography
- Layers
- Tourism Project
- Masking and Advanced Compositing
- Using Your Skills Professionally
- Building a Portfolio
- Final Exam
What you will learn
- Learn Master the fundamentals of graphic design concepts and terminology Adobe Photoshop
- Use any tool in the Photoshop workspace efficiently Demonstrate knowledge of basic design and typography principles
- Take a look at the history of Define common graphic design and advertising to understand how it affects design today terms
- Master how Use the design process to correctly package a project for printing and production work effectively with clients
- Develop a personal brand and incorporate social media
- Produce a portfolio using a variety of graphic design techniques
How you will benefit
- Create an extensive digital portfolio that can be used to show potential employers and clients
- Master the features of Photoshop suite needed to create results-driven professional work
- Prepare yourself for a career as a graphic designer, art director, video game designer, web developer, photo editor, and more
- Develop your own design style that will distinguish you from competitors
Chad Walker
Chad Walker has been in the comic book and video game industry for over 26 years, with experience in all leadership positions and production fields, including art (graphic design, animation, conceptual design, and character design), design (world/gameplay), and coding.
Chad is well-versed in Adobe Suite packages, including Photoshop and Illustrator. He has worked on numerous projects in graphic design for print, car wraps, and websites using Photoshop for production-ready content.
Chad is a published author, grant writer, professional comic book illustrator, speaker, and former professor at Southern Methodist University (SMU) Guildhall for game development and Oral Roberts University (ORU) as head of game development. He has taught Graphic Design, Photoshop, and other Adobe products for over 20 years at the university level and in studio workshops. Most notable titles include "Age of Empires," "Age of Kings," and "Age of Conquerors."
Corie Seed
Corie Seed is an experienced graphic designer who has worked for major technology companies, government organizations, and small businesses to provide corporate branding, web design, marketing, and layout services. She has also taught various aspects of design at Algonquin College and Carleton University. Corie's undergraduate studies include graphic design, visual and creative arts, photography, and multimedia design. She is currently completing her master's in design at Carleton University, where she is exploring decolonizing design education through methods of critical self-reflection.
