Photoshop Secrets: 10 Essential Rules Every Beginner Should Know

Discover the tips and tricks that can save you hours of frustration in Photoshop. Whether you’re new or looking to brush up your skills, these 10 rules will help you work smarter, not harder.

Introduction

Photoshop is a powerful tool, but like any creative software, it comes with its own set of challenges. In this post, we’ll share 10 Photoshop secrets—simple yet effective rules that can transform your editing process. Written in easy English with step-by-step details, this guide is perfect for beginners who want to avoid common mistakes and boost their workflow. Let’s dive in!

Rule 1: High Quality Editing

Why It Matters:
Working in a higher bit mode preserves image quality, especially when you add multiple adjustments.

Step-by-Step:

1. Start in 16-bit mode:
   • Go to Image > Mode and select 16 bits per channel.
2. Edit with confidence:
   • Even when adding gradients and adjustment layers, 16-bit mode minimizes unwanted banding.
3. Exporting Your Work:
   • When finished, export your image (e.g., as a JPEG) using File > Export, which converts it to 8-bit if needed.

Tip: Always edit in 16-bit and convert to 8-bit only during export for the best quality.

Rule 2: Proper Color on Export

Why It Matters:
Incorrect color profiles can change your image’s appearance on different devices, especially on the web.

Step-by-Step:

1. Check your color profile:
   • Most edits are done in Pro Photo RGB.
2. Convert to sRGB for web use:
   • Before exporting, go to File > Export.
   • Ensure you check Convert to sRGB and Embed Color Profile.
3. Save your image:
   • This ensures colors remain consistent on platforms like Instagram or your website.

Tip: Always verify your color settings before uploading your work online.

Rule 3: Importing Raw Photos Correctly

Why It Matters:
Working with raw photos in Photoshop gives you the flexibility to adjust settings without permanently altering your image.

Step-by-Step:

1. Open your raw file:
   • When the file opens in Camera Raw, make your initial adjustments.
2. Open as a Smart Object:
   • Instead of clicking Open, hold down Shift and click Open Object.
   • This preserves all raw adjustments and allows you to re-edit in Camera Raw later.

Tip: Use Smart Objects to keep your raw editing non-destructive and flexible.

Rule 4: Use Multiple Masks Wisely

Why It Matters:
Working with a single mask for multiple adjustments can lead to unwanted effects, like halos around edges.

Step-by-Step:

1. Group your layers:
   • Select the topmost and bottommost layers, then press Ctrl/Cmd + G.
2. Apply one mask to the group:
   • Transfer one mask to the group and delete duplicate masks on individual layers.
3. Adjust as needed:
   • Now you can modify the mask once, and the changes will apply uniformly.

Tip: Grouping layers and using one mask simplifies your workflow and avoids editing errors.

Rule 5: Convert Layers to Smart Objects

Why It Matters:
Smart Objects allow you to make changes to filters and adjustments later without starting from scratch.

Step-by-Step:

1. Duplicate the background layer:
   • Press Ctrl/Cmd + J to create a copy.
2. Convert to Smart Object:
   • Right-click on the layer and choose Convert to Smart Object.
3. Apply Filters Non-Destructively:
   • Apply filters like Camera Raw. Double-click the filter to readjust settings later.
4. Create Shortcuts:
   • Customize your keyboard shortcuts for converting to Smart Objects to speed up your workflow.

Tip: Always convert to a Smart Object before applying major filters or adjustments.

Rule 6: Build Muscle Memory for Saving

Why It Matters:
Regularly saving your work prevents loss of progress and builds a good editing habit.

Step-by-Step:

1. Save frequently:
   • Press Ctrl/Cmd + S after making significant changes.
2. Check the asterisk:
   • An asterisk next to your file name indicates unsaved changes.
3. Set Autosave:
   • Go to Edit > Preferences > File Handling and set autosave to every 5 minutes.

Tip: Combine autosave with manual saving to ensure your work is always safe.

Rule 7: Use Cloud Documents for Backup

Why It Matters:
Saving your projects to the cloud protects your work against computer crashes and power outages.

Step-by-Step:

1. Save locally first:
   • Save a copy of your project on your computer.
2. Save to the cloud:
   • Choose File > Save As and select Save to Cloud Documents.
3. Access Anywhere:
   • Cloud documents allow you to access and edit your projects on different devices.
4. Version History:
   • Use the Window > Version History feature to revert to previous versions if needed.

Tip: Cloud saving is essential for professionals who need reliable backups.

Rule 8: Beware of the “Delete Cropped Pixels” Setting

Why It Matters:
When cropping, accidental deletion of pixels can permanently remove parts of your image.

Step-by-Step:

1. Adjust crop settings:
   • Before cropping, ensure that Delete Cropped Pixels is turned off.
2. Crop with confidence:
   • This setting allows you to adjust or undo your crop without losing any data.
3. Review your image:
   • Double-check your settings if you plan on cropping multiple times.

Tip: Keeping cropped pixels intact gives you the flexibility to re-edit your image later.

Rule 9: Avoid Using Photoshop Beta on Production Machines

Why It Matters:
Beta versions can be unstable and may crash, risking your important projects.

Step-by-Step:

1. Stick to stable releases:
   • Always use the stable version of Photoshop for your professional work.
2. Test beta versions on a separate system:
   • If you’re curious about beta features, try them on a non-production machine.
3. Backup your work:
   • Ensure you have a recent backup if you decide to experiment with beta software.

Tip: Keep your main computer free of beta software to avoid unexpected crashes.

Rule 10: Paste Properly with “Paste in Place”

Why It Matters:
Pasting in the correct location ensures that your design elements stay aligned.

Step-by-Step:

1. Copy your subject:
   • Select the layer and press Ctrl/Cmd + C.
2. Create a new document with matching dimensions:
   • Ensure the new document has the same dimensions as your original.
3. Paste in place:
   • Instead of using the regular paste, press Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + V to paste the object in the exact same position.

Tip: Using “Paste in Place” helps maintain the layout consistency across your designs.

Conclusion

By following these 10 essential Photoshop rules, you can avoid common pitfalls and make your editing process more efficient and enjoyable. From ensuring high-quality edits to using cloud backups and smart objects, each tip is designed to help you work smarter. Start incorporating these practices into your daily workflow and see the difference in your projects!