Kaboom Your Photography!

Beecher's HandoutsBeecher's Handouts is a free 122 page book about photography. Read online or download a free copy. | Photo Cheat SheetThe questions you need to ask just before you press the shutter release. Read online or download a free copy. | Photo Flash CardsUse the flash cards to make learning about your camera easy. Read online or download a free copy. | Photoshop Elements100s of articles & tutorials make editing with Photoshop Elements easier and fun. | LightroomHere's a free 127 page book about organizing and editing with the program. Read online or download a free copy. | PrintingGet help with your prints. |

Tips100s of photography tips for you. Learn something new. Improve your photography. | PATHPATH is a free book about the most important ingredient in photography. Most books are about cameras. This book is about you. Read online or download a free copy. | Creative Energy QuestionnaireUse the Creative Energy Questionnaire to delve into your inner photographer. Get more creative energy. | Private LessonsPrivate lessons are tailored to your needs. | Upcoming ClassesBe a better photographer Take a class. | For Jim's StudentsThere's information here for my students. I've gathered together the essential articles & tutorials.

New Stuff

Note: Lightroom 4 Beta

Photoshop Elements: Split Toning, Tips: Passage of Time & Organize Your Photographs (Revised)

Photoshop Elements >

Create a Blank Layer

A blank layer doesn't contain any mathematics or pixels.

It has a checkerboard pattern.

You can use it for retouching, such as using the Clone Stamp tool.

Icon

To create a blank layer, click the Create a blank layer icon.

The icon looks is a white square with one corner being folded over (dog eared).

In 6.0 and 7.0, the Create a blank layer icon is located at the top of the Layers palette.

In 8.0, the Create a blank layer icon is located at the bottom of the Layers panel.

Layer Menu

You can also go to the Layer menu at the top of your screen.

Go to Layer > New > Layer.

Keyboard Shortcut

Press Shift + Ctrl + n.

Layer Menu

You can go to the Layer menu at the top of your screen.

Go to Layer > New > Layer.

Keyboard Shortcut

Press Shift + Ctrl + n.