A File by Any Other Name.

File format some people may have issue opening different files when transferring to other computers or programs. Most photos are JPG, the most universal file, but when dealing with a Apple computer there is not an issue but it does sometimes happen when switching between the two "languages" of computers. 

JPG is a compressed file format and great for regular viewing and email. The file that may work is a TIFF a uncompressed file that keeps the layers in photoshop and tends to "travel" better when swapping files on flashdrives and discs, but it is much larger and tends not to fit on emails. JPG is best for emails and sending to companies to be printed. 

To change the File type simply open the photo you want to change in photoshop or the available program and do FILE >SAVE AS > CHOOSE THE FILE TYPE. In the drop down tab that has the current file type listed. 

Changing the actual size of the photo to be printed was brought up. If you send it to a printer like CVS they will size the photo to fit one of their standard sizes. Printing at home there is an option on most printers to fit to page. But if you want a exact size you can go to IMAGE > IMAGE SIZE and change it to the desired size.

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Photoshop Substitutes

A great live action Photoshop I found online a few years ago

Though Adobe Photoshop is an amazing program it is a big investment. If you do plan on doing a large amount of complex editing or professional work I highly recommend it but, if you simply just want to do some light editing of redeye or color correction there are other options.

First Photoshop itself can be found in many places: Amazon, Adobe, etc. If you own older versions of photoshop they can be updated for less than buying new.  Programs through works or schools can also be a option. If you plan on getting a new computer item check if there are packages that come with Adobe software you might like. You don't have to update if you don't want to. New software is just like everything else extra fun things are added but will you use them?  Photoshop Elements is a less expensive version and has all the tools a typical user might need.

The second option is endless, there are simple free software out there on photo sharing sites like Picasa with the added bonus of a safe place to share and store your photos so they can't be lost. Other alternatives are free or come with computers and their software.

Lastly there are places you can go to use Photoshop our local Rivier library computers are always up to date though not all the computers had every program, as of last year, but the ones near the photo copier did.

Now most programs tools are in essence the same: they have similar names, icons, and purpose. The only difference is if the program has the tool or where it is located. Note usually the more complicated the tool the less common it might be on free programs and more expensive. So if you are taking this class but do not have the latest Photoshop look at all the options. Though we will be focusing on one program the same lessons can be applied to the other programs as well with some flexibility.

Good luck in your learning and never stop.