Fun at Photoshop World



How to Make an iBook Using Apple iWork

Installing an ePub File
I whipped up my first ebook (you can download it here). To install the file, do the following.
1. Download the ePub file and unzip it.

2. Connect your iOS device.
3. Launch iTunes.
4. Drag the file onto your device.
\5. Launch iBooks and select your book.
Creating an ePub File
Now... here's the QUICK tutorial on how to make one with Apple Pages.... I promise a detailed tutorial next week (but I had to get this out there).1. Download this template file – http://images.apple.com/support/pages/docs/ePub_Best_Practices_EN.zip
2. Open the file and fill in your content. Be sure to use the styles drawer to use proper formatting.

3. Add photos or media files (such as audio or video). Stick with iPad compatible formats like MP4 and MP3. You can convert your files using iTunes.
4. When finished choose File > Export.
5. Choose the ePub format and enter details.

6. Click Next and choose a destination, then click Export.
For more... see this support document – http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4168
For more on using Pages and iWork, be sure to check out the Apple Training Series book.
Understanding Adobe Camera Raw
After Effects Material Controls are Often Overlooked

In the rush to design, many motion graphic artists skip the advanced controls inside the Material Options category. These are essential as the refine how a 3D light interacts with your 3D layer. The properties that affect appearance the most are Diffuse, Specular, Shininess, and Metal.
The only changes made to the scene above were modifications to the Material Options. No other settings with lights were modified. The Material Options are powerful controls that are often overlooked. When you're first exploring Material Options, try lowering or raising their values one property at a time.
- To start, drop all of the values to 0% to remove the effect of the lights.
- Next slowly increase the Specular value. This will add a hotspot to your layer (it may get quite blown out). This value controls how reflective the layer is. The bigger the number the brighter the reflection.
- Raise the Shininess property which will cause the light to show specular highlights. The bigger the number the smaller the highlight.
- Use the Diffuse property to soften the results generated by the Specular and Shininess properties. This will soften the transition between lights and darks.
- Raising metal property will lower the color distinction between the darker areas and the highlight, but the highlight will still be brighter. It also affects how much the layer's color influences the color of the reflection.
From the new Adobe Press book – Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5 Studio Techniques
Creating 3D in Illustrator with the Revolve Command
1. Select an object or line inside of Adobe Illustrator.

A line or a shape is all you need to create a 3D object. By default, the extrusion will rotate around the left edge so position the vector object accordingly.
2. Choose Effect > 3D > Revolve. Check the Preview box so you can see the effect update as you make changes.

With the Preview box checked, changes will update so you can experiment more easily. For complex objects, the screen may take a moment to redraw.
By default, Illustrator revolves objects around the left edge. You can change this to the right edge using the from pop-up.
3. If you object has a fill, you can use the cap command to make it appear solid or hollow.

4. Use the Angle property to set the number of degrees to revolve the path. While you can use any number between 0 and 360, I typically start with 360˚.
With the Preview box checked, changes will update so you can experiment more easily. For complex objects, the screen may take a moment to redraw. You can use the Offset slider to expand the path to create a ring-shaped object.

If you experiment with this effect, some pretty cool options are possible. Try using a dashed line and creating an irregular path. In this case a basket shape is possible and you can create abstract 3D objects for motion graphics work. Technique adapted from RC Concepcion.
From the new Adobe Press book – Motion Graphics with Adobe Creative Suite 5 Studio Techniques
Two New Photoshop Books


Both of my Photoshop books are fully updated (and released!)
Amazon has a combo deal.. get both books for $67
That's a ton of training, hundreds of hands-on files. 72 training videos and more.
See this page here – http://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Adobe-Photoshop-CS5-Professionals/dp/0321714261/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_3
Understanding Photoshop – Creating Panoramic Photos App is FREE Two Days Only
Until June 5... we are giving this application away for free. Learn how to create breathtaking panoramic photographs using Adobe Photoshop® and your digital camera. This innovative application combines the latest in knowledge and technology to accelerate your learning.
- Includes 15 training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch. Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.
- Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.
- Test your knowledge with interactive quizzes. Score yourself as well as check your answers with video responses.
- Search throughout the application by keyword and your own bookmarks.
- A quick reference guide is also included to help build your skills.
- Interact with the trainer with comments and a Twitter client.
Additionally a quick reference guide for shooting panoramic photos is included for quick reference in the field.
TO SWITCH VIDEOS – SWIPE YOUR FINGER ACROSS THUMBNAILS
If you like it, please consider a small donation to the Pancreatic Cancer Action – http://www.pancan.org/ in memory of Marilyn Marlowe.
35% Off and Free Shipping on my Two New Photoshop Books

Peachpit has a great resource center for learning Photoshop CS5. They have a bunch of book excerpts and free podcasts.
You can also check out four of the seventy-two videos that ship with my new edition of Understanding Adobe Photoshop.
Puppet Warp • Refine Edges Command • Merge to HDR Pro • Content-Aware Tools
Plus they've got a great deal on my new Photoshop books.
- 35% Off
- Free shipping
Check out Peachpit.com and enter code KPPSV
Photoshop for Video and Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS5 are both off to print and shipping soon.
Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS5 is 100% Done
The book is ready to order and will ship soon. As a bonus, it also includes 6.5 hours of training videos.
Photoshop is the foundation of every digital career. Many users think they know it, but in truth they have gaping holes in their training. This book covers what a professional truly needs to know about Photoshop. For students this book offers a chance to explore the program interactively. For professionals it provides a chance to add to your skill base. The book cuts though the clutter and is unique, focusing not just on digital photography, but also the Web, graphic design, multimedia, and video.
Readers will learn the basics in correcting, editing, sharpening, retouching, and presenting photos as well as work on specific projects/exercises. Coverage of exciting new C5 features includes: Puppet Warp, Refining Edges, Eyedropper tools, Merge to HDR, Content Aware Fill/Scale/Heal, 3D Text, and Lens Profile.
The full-color book includes a DVD with hand-on exercises and practice images as well as 72 new video training tutorials that expand the on the lessons in the book.
Win a free copy of new book – From Still to Motion
Prizes
How to Play
- Follow @Peachpit (only followers are eligible). We’ll send a direct message (DM) to the winner, so you must be following us to find out if you won. (If you’re not on Twitter yet, just go to http://www.twitter.com and click the “get started – join!” button.)
- Stay tuned on Friday. Throughout the day, we’ll let you know which prize we’re giving away and the number of response you need to be to win. (For example: “#FRIDAYFREEBIES: Autographed copy of A World in HDR! Be the 7th person to tweet to @Peachpit w/hashtag #FridayFreebies to win!”)
- To enter, just send a message to @Peachpit with the hashtag #FridayFreebies and include the special key word (revealed in the video) in your tweet.
- All followers can win any prize.
- The winner will be announced on Twitter once we confirm eligibility.
New iPhoto Training

iPhoto: Fix Your Photos – http://tinyurl.com/iphotofix
The videos provide easy to follow tutorials that help you fix common problems with pictures. You'll learn how to straighten and crop, adjust dark photos, and bring out the color in your snapshots. You'll also learn how to fix soft focus, red eye, and overexposed photos. Whether you're new to iPhoto or even an experienced user, you'll find useful techniques and powerful shortcuts to get your work done faster. Each lesson includes hands on files so you can work along with the instructor.
iPhoto: Share Your Photos - http://tinyurl.com/iphotoshare
The videos provide easy to follow tutorials that help you share your pictures over email or post them online to services including MobileMe, Facebook, and Flickr. You’ll also learn techniques for making slideshows and creating your own blog. Whether you're new to iPhoto or even an experienced user, you’ll find useful techniques and powerful shortcuts to share your photos easily. Each lesson includes hands on files so you can follow along with the instructor.
Aperture 3 Announced – New Training on Way

Here are my top 10 reasons to upgrade for current users. More details soon...
- Better Filmstrip and Fullscreen View – It's much easier to work with your images and really get at the details.
- Backup on Import – Have your media go to two drives at once. This is HUGE.
- Places – Yes it's in iPhoto... but now that GPS tag makes it so much easier to sort by location. I also use this as a tool for site surveys and planning from shoot scouts.
- Faces – Again... was in iPhoto last year, but I'll take it. Facial recognition to organize your library. This is great for finding pictures of one subject. It's freaky good too.
- Focus Points – Actually see where the camera used points to auto focus. This is very useful for evaluating sharpness.
- Search on Steroids – Okay, that's not its actual name. But it's amazing... you can sort by usage, face, place, time, file type, all sorts of things. Literally search by Who, Where, When... I'm still waiting on Why.
- Nondestructive Brushes with Edge Detection – Easily cleanup images with all sorts of spot adjustments. Completely nondestructive and editable, including the ability to view the selections mask and tweak it at any time. Oh... and they work with Wacom tablets too. The skin smoothing brush is dreamy good.
- Curves! – 'nuff said.
- Adjustment Presets – Useful starting points or make your own. Can even apply them upon import to batch fix problems.
- Video – You can organize it, trim it, media manage it, drag it into Final Cut Pro, export out versions, use it in new slideshows. Uh huh... that's right... video.
You can see a detailed list of all 200 features here – http://www.apple.com/aperture/features/
I am working on two new DVDs and video titles for Kelby Training – tell them you want more!
Also, be sure to check out the great site – http://www.apertureexpert.com/
Great Photoshop Training Apps On Sale

Need some Photoshop training? Check out our iPhone and iPod touch apps.They are on sale right now at a special price 99¢ and $1.99.
- Terry White made it his pick of the week.
- Jeff Revell at PhotoWalkPro write a very detailed review too.
- My son thinks it's cool that I used his picture in one of the lessons
If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?
How about our sale!
Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is $.99 | iTunes – Web Demo
Understanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $1.99 | iTunes – Web Demo
(prices good through February 1)
These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. We've lowered the prices temporarily so more people will try them out. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive).
- Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.
- Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.
- Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.
- Test your knowledge with interactive quizzes. Score yourself as well as check your answers with video responses.
- Search throughout the application by keyword and your own bookmarks.
- A quick reference guide is also included to help you build your Photoshop knowledge.
- Interact with the trainer with comments and a Twitter client.

Vote for a Cover – DSLR Video Book

These are just rough designs (not final covers) but I want your vote!
Special Video Book and Content Deal

Peachpit would like to give your group a unique opportunity to provide your members with high-quality articles and video instruction from Richard Harrington and Robbie Carman’s critically acclaimed Peachpit book, Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite absolutely free.
Get more information – here
An Interview About my New Book
Aperture Book Gets Perfect Review

"Aperture 2: Professionally Manage Digital Photographs goes into every little things that Aperture can do for you. While you can easily see and use the sliders in the interface, it is not obvious by looking at them that using a modifier key will improve the tools' functionality. They are also describing features like round-tripping to an external editor, such as Photoshop. And if your camera RAW file format is not yet recognized by Aperture, did you know you can use a free DNG converter from Adobe to be able to edit it in Aperture without having to wait for Apple to update the software? I point this out, because historically speaking Adobe has been faster to implement RAW decodes for new cameras than Apple ever was."
See the whole review here.
Get the book here.
A Great Sale at Kelby Training

A great sale over at Kelby Training... I have a few titles up there too.
"An annual subscription ensures uninterrupted and unlimited access to our entire library of photography, Photoshop®, web, and creative design courses. You'll also never worry about missing out on new courses (posted weekly) and you'll instantly save $100 annually (when compared to a monthly subscription)."
The sale is $179 for a year's access. You also can get a great book bundle for free. Three of Scott Kelby's top Photoshop and Lightroom books thrown in to sweeten the deal.
"Enter code CBCKNOV at checkout to receive The Pro Photographer Bundle (while supplies last). HURRY! Offer expires December 31, 2009"
Visit Kelbytraining.com for more information or to subscribe.
Working with Type in After Effects
Looking for a quick overview on how to control text animation in After Effects? This video will get you up and running quickly. You can also visit the website www.peachpit.com/videomac in order to download sample files.
Calibrating a Camera with OnLocation
Want to see a real-world calibration of a camera using OnLocation? Be sure to check out this video for a detailed demonstration.You can also visit the website www.peachpit.com/videomac in order to download sample files.
Developing a Raw File with Photoshop
In this video you’ll learn how to use the Camera Raw dialog in Photoshop to process your images. You can also visit the website www.peachpit.com/videomac in order to download sample files.
Have You Joined "From Still to Motion" Yet?

Over at Facebook you can connect with other users... exchange ideas... share resources!
Here's a sampling of recent stories.
- Zacuto custom rig for Panavision + Canon 7D setup
- Photoshop World adds a new DSLR video workshop
- HDMI capture of live stream for Canon 7D
- Almost everything you need to know about aliasing in DSLR video
- Canon 7D Test - Greenscreen
Join us and share your ideas for the book and footage tests.
New Training Video Released

"Just Released: “Editing Video Shot With Your DSLR” Online Class
Video guru, photographer, and Photoshop World instructor Richard Harrington just released a new online class at Kelby Training Online called Editing Your DSLR Video on a Mac, and it answers so many questions about this booming new area of creativity for photographers. If you’ve got a DSLR that shoots video, you’ve got to catch Rich’s class (here’s the link)."Thanks Scott – He called me a photographer... guess I'm moving up in the world =)
Great Photoshop Training Apps On Sale

Need some Photoshop training? Check out our new iPhone and iPod touch apps.
Quick Fixes has 23 reviews in the iTtunes store (22 are 5-start and 1 4-star)! People love this app.
- Terry White made it his pick of the week.
- Jeff Revell at PhotoWalkPro write a very detailed review too.
- My son thinks it's cool that I used his picture in one of the lessons
If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?
How about our sale!
Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is $1.99 | iTunes – Web Demo
Understanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $3.99 | iTunes – Web Demo
(prices good through November 30)
These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. We've lowered the prices temporarily so more people will try them out. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly possitive).
- Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.
- Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.
- Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.
- Test your knowledge with interactive quizzes. Score yourself as well as check your answers with video responses.
- Search throughout the application by keyword and your own bookmarks.
- A quick reference guide is also included to help you build your Photoshop knowledge.
- Interact with the trainer with comments and a Twitter client.

Our Photoshop Training Apps are on Sale

What are folks saying about our new apps?
Quick Fixes has 23 reviews in the iTtunes store (24 are 5-start and 1 4-star)! People love this app.
- Terry White made it his pick of the week.
- Jeff Revell at PhotoWalkPro write a very detailed review too.
- My son thinks it's cool that I used his picture in one of the lessons
If you haven't tried our new training apps, what are you waiting for?
How about our sale!
Understanding Photoshop Quick Fixes is $1.99 | iTunes – Web Demo
Understanding Photoshop Creating Panoramic Photos is $3.99 | iTunes – Web Demo
(prices good through November 30)
These apps are a lot of work, but I want to see them succeed. We've lowered the prices temporarily so more people will try them out. Tell your friends and try them out (the feedback has been overwhelmingly possitive).
- Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.
- Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.
- Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.
- Test your knowledge with interactive quizzes. Score yourself as well as check your answers with video responses.
- Search throughout the application by keyword and your own bookmarks.
- A quick reference guide is also included to help you build your Photoshop knowledge.
- Interact with the trainer with comments and a Twitter client.

New Podcast Featured on iTunes

Our new podcast, Video Made on a Mac, is in the New and Notable section of iTunes.
Richard Harrington and Robbie Carman show you how to create professional video on the Mac. In this series, they share videos and project files using real world examples in Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite. From pre-production to post, and accomplishing it all within a tight schedule, this podcast series gives you a sample of what you can learn using their book, Video Made on the a Mac.
Be sure to visit the site to get the free downloadable files or order the book. Be sure to use the code VMMBOOK at checkout to receive a discount.
The new podcast is brought to you by the fine folks at Peachpit Press.
New DSLR Video Training Title Available – UPDATE

Editing Your DSLR Video on a Mac
Your DSLR shoots video! Cool right!? Now what? You've probably got more video than you know what to do with. Richard Harrington created this course to help you with how to edit that video footage (using Mac software). Rich covers everything from in-the-field tips all the way to post-production techniques using Final Cut Pro, Final Cut Express and iMovieBe sure to check the class out today.
Here's a link to the trailer for the video as well.
Our New iPhone App Gets a Great Review
Here are a few excerpts:
- "Rich tells you just what you need to know to get the task done!"
- "This is a good app to have a Photoshop Video Tutorial Library with you at all times."
Check out the complete review here.
You can also get the applications here.
My New iPhone Apps are Released

We've just released two very cool new applications for the iPhone and iPod touch. These applictons take full advantage of the iPhone and iPod technology.
- Includes training videos edited specifically for the iPhone or iPod Touch.
- Offers easily viewable screens, with zooms and close-ups of the action.
- Every lesson includes hands-on files that you download to your computer. There’s no need to merely watch, you can try out every technique on your own.
- Test your knowledge with interactive quizzes. Score yourself as well as check your answers with video responses.
- Search throughout the application by keyword and your own bookmarks.
- A quick reference guide is also included to help you build your Photoshop knowledge.
- Interact with the trainer with comments and a Twitter client.
Understanding Photoshop: Quick Fixes
LearnClick here to visit the iTunes store
Understanding Photoshop: Creating Panoramic Photos
Learn
Click here to visit the iTunes store

How to Wow with PowerPoint Free Samples and On Sale

Here are a few samples to check out.
Photos & Graphics: Selecting & Preparing Images for Your Presentation
Download a Sample Chapter from this book.
New Book is Off to the Printer
Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction Using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite
Richard Harrington I have just returned my final comments for the new book Video Made on a Mac. We are now compressing the 5.5 hours of HD video lessons that come with this book. This book is SO awesome... (I am not objective, but its the best book I've ever written). If you work with Final Cut Studio and/or Adobe Creative Suite... You need this book. We have filled it to the brim with time saving workflow and practical advice.
Here’s the official blurb – You can order it here on Amazon (it’ll ship in a few weeks).
On a Mac, the sky's the limit for creating professional video. With all the tools available though, it can be a daunting task to decide which ones offer the best solutions for combined efficiency and high-level results. How can you effectively communicate your vision to clients and crew? How should you calibrate your camera for multi-camera and green screen shoots? Is it better to do your keying in After Effects, Motion, or Final Cut? How should you set up your edit suite for efficiency and accuracy? How do you manage large amounts of media and a multitude of formats for multiple software applications?
In Video Made on a Mac, you'll learn the answers and much more. Chock-full of practical advice and step-by-step instructions, each chapter provides insight on the critical components of production and postproduction that can make all the difference when you're up against a tight budget and schedule. The accompanying DVD supplies you with project files and high-definition footage so you can follow along with the examples, as well as 50 training videos. Whether you're an advanced Mac user or just beginning to incorporate Adobe Creative Suite into your Final Cut Studio workflow, you'll learn to apply best-practice techniques to all your video projects.
Want a Free Book?

Q: What’s Safari Books Online?
A: It’s a ton of books you can read online from publishers like Peachpit, O’Reilly, and others.
Q: Is it really free?
A: Sign up for the trial... order a book. If you don’t like, cancel within the 10-day trial period. Otherwise they bill you for first month (which is about the cost of a book).
Q: Which Books are Free?
A: There are 10 to choose from.
- Mastering CSS with Dreamweaver CS4 – Stephanie Sullivan, Greg Rewis
- Building Findable Websites: Web Standards, SEO, and Beyond – Aarron Walter
- A Project Guide to UX Design – Russ Unger, Carolyn Chandler
- Online Communities Handbook – Anna Buss, Nancy Strauss
- Mac OS X Leopard Killer Tips – Scott Kelby
- The Hot Shoe Diaries: Big Light from Small Flashes –Joe McNally
- The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book: The Complete Guide for Photographers – Martin Evening
- The Photoshop Elements 7 Book for Digital Photographers – Scott Kelby, Matt Kloskowski
- Facebook Me! A Guide to Having Fun with Your Friends and Promoting Your Projects on Facebook –Dave Awl
- SocialCorp: Social Media Goes Corporate – Joel Postman
Two New Apple Books Ready To Order


If you’ve wondered why I’ve been so quite lately... it’s because I’ve been hard at work on both of these books. I’m proud to announce that these will be shipping in just a few weeks. Both feature a ton of new projects and all sorts of new tips. Even if you have previous editions of the books, you won’t want to miss these. We’ve completely rewritten nearly every chapter with a ton of new projects, design tips, and a bunch of really helpful advice.
Apple Training Series: iWork 09
In the only Apple-certified guide to iWork ’09, you’ll learn to create everything from first-rate business presentations and newsletters to effective budgets and event planners. Focused lessons take you step by step through all aspects of Keynote, Pages, and Numbers. The self-paced book/DVD combo uses real-life material and practical lessons that you can apply immediately to your own projects. You’ll learn to:
• Master the iWork suite of tools quickly through fun, real-world projects
• Design a Keynote presentation from storyboard to Web export
• Add animated charts and motion backgrounds to a presentation with ease
• Publish great-looking newsletters and brochures in print and on the Web
• Build a professional marketing package from scratch
• Create expense reports, track budgets, and plan special events
• Sort, organize, and chart data using sophisticated spreadsheet calculations
Get iWork ‘09 for 34% off the cover price
Apple Training Series: iLife 09
In the only Apple-certified guide to iLife ’09, the authors have you working miracles with iLife within the first few pages. Featuring footage and images from around the world, this book/DVD combo uses real-life material and practical lessons that you can apply immediately to your own projects. Focused lessons take you step by step through all aspects of iLife ’09—everything from organizing and sharing your photo library to creating polished video and soundtracks. Along the way, you’ll produce movies, photobooks, podcasts, websites, blogs, and custom DVDs.
Get iLife ‘09 for 34% off the cover price
I worked hard on these... there’s a ton of new stuff and I really hope you check them out.
New Book for After Effects and Flash Users
The official blurb
Adobe Creative Suite 4 brings together two powerful animation tools, each of which has its own specialized features and workflow. Learning to integrate Adobe After Effects and Adobe Flash Professional gives you more options for your animations and effects and the power to integrate video and motion graphics into a richer user experience. In this book, authors Richard Harrington and Marcus Geduld lead both types of users, those who are more familiar with either Flash or with After Effects, on using the programs together for maximum efficiency and creativity.
After walking you through the core features of both programs, the authors then explore advanced uses for each application. Each chapter focuses on a particular function of the program, teaching you how to create content for Flash with After Effects, enhance your projects using 3D environments, create professional-looking video with Adobe Media Encoder, and add interactivity, accessibility, and searchability to your video. You’ll also get hands-on experience using the project files on the accompanying DVD.
Within these easy-to-follow, step-by-step lessons, you’ll learn to:
- Seamlessly exchange projects and assets between After Effects and Flash
- Shoot green screen material correctly, work with Keylight, and utilize embedded alpha channels
- Create dynamic text, vector-based animations, and “animated” video using the tools in Adobe Creative Suite 4
- Work with 3D cameras and lights and create 3D environments
- Convert Flash to broadcast and DVD standards with After Effects
- Use Adobe Media Encoder for professional results
- Create interactive controls and use cue points in your video
- Optimize video for accessibility and use Adobe® Soundbooth® for video transcription
- Use ActionScript in your projects for more innovative animations
Get your copy now.... it really has some fun projects and cool things in it.
Books go Multilingual

The first book to arrive, How to Wow with Power Point. Available now in Simplified Chinese.
“We begin with the important essentials of typography, layout, and design, and move on to creating tables, charts, graphs, and custom templates. Next comes the fun stuff, with projects focusing on audio and video files and integrating Flash. Finally, there is a chapter devoted to exporting and publishing, including how to create handouts, upload to the Web, and other ways to share your presentation. On the How to Wow CD-ROM is everything you’ll need to complete the projects.”

“Fully updated for Aperture 2, this comprehensive book-DVD training combo starts with the basics of image management and takes you step by step all the way through Aperture's powerful photo-editing, image-retouching, proofing, publishing, and archiving features. Aperture 2's new features are completely covered, including a new RAW-image processing engine, a streamlined interface, powerful new adjustment tools, and added integration with Mac OS X and other Apple products for instant web publishing and one-click portfolio syncing.”
What a great world we live in... I just wish I could read the books and see how different the translations are from what I originally wrote.
Free Photoshop and After Effects CS4 Tutorials

The fine folks at Focal Press have decided to release two free updates. The popular books Photoshop for Video and Creating Motion Graphics both have free updates for the Creative Suite 4 release.
Even if you don’t have these two books (which I’d really suggest you check them out)... the CS4 updates are absolutely free.
New Photoshop Book is Shipping

The book is on sale at Amazon for 30% off, and adds some great new stuff.
The book is on sale at Peachpit’s website for 35% off. If ordering from Peachpit, use the discount code UAPTWO at checkout.
We’ve made our podcast series totally interactive for our book readers (more in a few days).
You can access a free chapter on Automation here.
You can view an excerpt from a chapter on color correction here.
The books are in my hands and shipping from both Peachpit and Amazon.
If you like the book... PLEASE write a review (I’d really appreciate it).
Free Filter Guide from Peachpit Press

To download the free guide – Click Here.
To order from Peachpit.com
CLICK TO ORDER – DISCOUNT CODE – UAP TWO - 35% OFF (Enter Code at Step 3 of checkout)
To order from Amazon.com
CLICK TO ORDER – 17% OFF
New Photoshop Book Now On Sale
Understanding Adobe Photoshop CS4:
The Essential Techniques for Imaging Professionals
By Richard Harrington
List Price: $49.99 – Sale Price $32.49
DISCOUNT CODE – UAP TWO - 35% OFF

Readers will learn the basics in correcting, editing, sharpening, retouching, and presenting photos as well as work on specific projects/exercises, including: digital painting; preparing images for newsprint; designing a CD/DVD label, magazine cover, and advertisements; and building an electronic portfolio.
The full-color book includes a CD-ROM with hand-on exercises and practice images, access to a reader’s only Web site for bonus downloads and files, and access to the popular video tutorial Podcasts (150 at time of publication).
CLICK TO ORDER – DISCOUNT CODE – UAP TWO - 35% OFF (Enter Code at Step 3 of checkout)
New Book for Teachers

Apple Training Series:
A Teacher's Guide to Digital Media in the Classroom
by Richard Harrington with Ted Lai
Price: $19.99
Release Date: August 8, 2008
Product Description
In this Apple-certified guide, Richard Harrington shows teachers how to integrate digital media arts into their existing curriculum using iLife ’08, iWork ’08, and practical, step-by-step projects. Developed in collaboration with the Pearson Education Foundation in accordance with the National Educational Technology Standards council, the book includes class-room tested guidelines from the Foundation's Digital Media Arts program, as well as inspirational profiles of successful digital media classroom projects around the world. Designed to be used with Apple Training Series: iLife ’08 and Apple Training Series: iWork 08, this guide covers everything from designing a photo essay to creating polished video projects, and will have teachers and students producing websites, podcasts, video blogs, and DVDs in no time. Students learn to:
• Express a Feeling: Create a photo-essay slideshow, add sound, and publish it on the web
• Make a Factual Case: Track data in a spreadsheet, organize it into charts, then deliver it as a Keynote presentation
• Make a Persuasive Case: Research an issue, develop an argument, and create a PSA in iMovie and burn it to DVD
• Solve a Problem: Reconcile income and expenses in a household budget and chart financial scenarios
• Tell a Story: Document the personal history of a community leader in a short, sophisticated movie
To order the book, click here.
New Online Class – Photoshop and After Effects for Event Photographers

You can watch the first three parts of the lesson for free and find out more on their site. The tutorial touches upon most of the Production Premium suite. You'll learn a bit about Photoshop, After Effects, Encore, Premiere Pro, Soundbooth, and the Adobe Media Encoder
I hope you enjoy it.
Two Updated Final Cut Pro DVDs

Apple Final Cut Pro
Volume 1: Getting Started in Final Cut Pro
Volume 2: Going Deeper in Final Cut Studio
Also, you may have missed that we recently released the following titles. These also include HD and iPod versions on the same disc.
Apple Color
Volume 11: Introduction to Color
Volume 12: Advanced Color
Bundled for Savings
Apple Motion
Volume 13: Getting Started with Apple Motion
Volume 14: Going Deeper with Apple Motion
Volume 15: Advanced Techniques with Apple Motion
Bundled for Savings
NAB Show 2008 Conference Notes

Thanks to all the great people who attended my classes at NAB this year. It was a ton of work to prep (and I must admit I needed some rest when I got back home). As promised, the class notes and resources have been posted to the Handouts section (be sure to browse for other resources as well).
Here's the list of what's available.
01 Fast Start with Adobe Photoshop for Video Pros – Slides | Book Sample
02 Video Podcasting Essentials – Slides
03 Selling Podcasting to Your Clients – Slides
04 A Sense of Perspective with Vanishing Point – Slides | Practice Files
05 Creating Movement within Photos with After Effects CS3 – Slides | Practice Files 1 | Practice Files 2
06 Directing Video Podcasts – Slides
07 Project Management for Video Pros – Slides
08 In-Depth: Video Production for the Web – Slides
09 Creating a Graphic Identity for Your Web Video – Slides [Enhanced PDF]
10 Render Faster: Wait Less and Play More in Adobe After Effects – Slides
11 Storyboard Techniques with Adobe Photoshop – Slides
12 Creative and Animated DVD menus using Photoshop – Handouts
13 Automating Broadcast Design with Photoshop – Slides
14 Seeing a New Light: FCP Color Correction – Slides | DVD
Refillable Sandbags

You can check them out here
Learning After Effects

Learning After Effects requires you to spend some time with the program and follow a structured learning regimen. Some of our favorite After Effects learning tools include:
- After Effects Apprentice – Trish and Chris Meyer
• After Effects @ Work – Focal Press
• Broadcast Graphics on the Spot – Richard Harrington, Glen Stephens, Chris Vadnais
• Creative After Effects – Angie Taylor
• Creative Cow – www.CreativeCow.net
• Xeler8r – www.xeler8r.com
Nice Review of iWork ‘08 Book

“Apple’s iWork applications are quite easy to use. However, if users want to go beyond the meager instructions given in the little pamphlets that come in the box with the software, Apple Training Series: iWork ‘08 is a great way to extend their knowledge of the software.
The applications in the iWork suite are designed to be easy to use from the get-go. Install, launch, poke around a little, do a little dragging and dropping, enter some text, and ...Shazam!.. get surprisingly good results. However, the ease with which users can use the software initially might prevent many from realizing the full potential of the iWork apps. Working through the lessons in Harrington’s manual, The Apple Training Series: iWork '08, will take users to the next level.”
“Richard Harrington has come up with a real winner for Mac users who are serious about developing new and valuable skills with The Apple Training Series: iWork '08, though it may be overkill for casual users of the iWork applications.”
You can read the full review here – You can get the book here
New Book on Video Podcasting is Out

If you are a budding podcaster or a multimedia professional I strongly encourage you to check out the book. Here are several links to give you a good idea of what its all about.
The Book: To Order – Read Chapter 1 – Table of Contents – Index
The Website – The Podcast
What's Your Angle?

Who – Who is going to watch the show? Who is going to host the show?
What – What topics will the show cover? What genre or format will it use?
Where – Where will the show be recorded? A studio? On location?
When – When will the show come out? Weekly? Monthly?
Why – Why would a viewer subscribe to the show? Why would they come back for another episode?
Aperture 2 – What's in it for You?

“Fully updated for Aperture 2, this comprehensive book-DVD training combo starts with the basics of image management and takes you step by step all the way through Aperture's powerful photo-editing, image-retouching, proofing, publishing, and archiving features. Aperture 2's new features are completely covered, including a new RAW-image processing engine, a streamlined interface, powerful new adjustment tools, and added integration with Mac OS X and other Apple products for instant web publishing and one-click portfolio syncing. Apple Pro Training Series: Aperture 2 delivers comprehensive training - the equivalent of a two-day course - in one project-based book. You'll learn time-saving techniques for sorting, ranking, and organizing images, effective methods for correcting and enhancing images, plus efficient ways to display images for client review, apply metadata, update your online portfolio automatically, and much more. Real-world exercises feature professional photography from a variety of genres, including photo-journalism, sports, wedding, commercial, and portraiture. All the files you need to complete the exercises are included on the DVD.”
And by fully-updated... its a completely new book with all-new photos and a ton of cool new things.
In the meantime... check out these free online videos and my review: Top 10 Reasons To Upgrade to Aperture 2.
Adobe Photoshop CS3 ACE Exam Available

New Class on Kelby Training

We’ve posted our first online class from Digital Video Guru (and Photoshop World Instructor) Richard Harrington, and it’s one a lot of people have been asking for: Getting Started with Apple Motion. Here’s the link to Rich’s new online class over at KelbyTraining.com. Note: We’ve got a lot more classes coming from Rich very soon, so stayed tuned! (That’s TV talk. I thought Rich would appreciate that type of jargon).
New DVDs on Apple Motion

“From beginner to master in one set, these three DVD’s will take you step by step through Apple Motion and have you ready to tackle complex projects in just hours. Join Richard Harrington in this three DVD set of clear, concise training that will have you producing higher quality work with Apple Motion in no time.”
You can get the training from VASST.com. If you want a discount code... Post a comment and I'll send it to you.
Amazon has Final Cut Studio On the Spot at a Special Price

Book Description
Packed with more than 500 techniques, this book delivers what you need to knowon the spot. It is suited to editors of all experience levels, whether you are:
- Migrating from another NLE
- Upgrading to Final Cut Studio 2
- Seeking a handy reference to raise your proficiency
Two New Discs on Color

Introduction to Color
Join Apple Certified Trainer Jeff Greenberg as he takes you through the basic and intermediate features of Apple Color. As a leading presenter, trainer, and creator of multimedia content, Jeff guides viewers through the most important features in Apple Color. His presentation style empowers users to get up and running in Color immediately.
To Order

Advanced Color
Join Apple Certified Trainer Jeff Greenberg as he takes you well beyond the basics in Advanced Color from VASST. This DVD is designed for users who want to take advantage of the high end features found in Apple Color. As a leading presenter, trainer, and creator of multimedia content, Jeff’s presentation style allows viewers master the advanced features in Color quickly and easily.
To Order
By both and save....
New Resource Site Launches – Final Cut Help

- Tip of the Week – Thanks to Focal Press
- Podcasts – Back Episodes and New Subscriptions
- Forums – In partnership with Creative Cow
- Conferences – New Events and Notes from previous classes
- Blog – For all the latest news
As always... comments and requests are very welcome.
New Training Site Launches

A. Yup, we sure do. Here’s the link.
Q. So what is subscription-based online training?
A. In the past, we’ve offered online training courses, and it was always “Pay as you go” (basically, you’d pay individually for each class you took). But now you can pay one annual subscription fee and then you have unlimited access to all our online classes.
Q. You said this is amazingly affordable. OK, how affordable is it?
A. Our annual subscription is only $199, or you can pay $19.95 a month. By contrast our online classes used to be around $70.00 each. If you took just three classes, you were already paying more than our new subscription tuition. Now, you get unlimited access, all year long, for only $199. That’s just 55¢ a day, for unlimited access to the best Photoshop and photography teachers on the planet.
Q. What makes you guys different?
A. We knew we had to do something really special to stand out from the other online training options, so we asked ourselves what is the single most important aspect of any online course. Is it the topics? The price? The technology? The quantity? The look? What is it? We think the single most important thing is “The teacher.” It’s who you’re learning from, and their connection with the students. It’s their passion, their knowledge, their ability to communicate and share in a way that makes sense, that’s engaging, and even fun. That’s why we built our entire program around one thing; bringing you nothing but the very best teachers on the planet. Period.
Q. If the teacher provides files for us to practice along with, can we download them, or do we have to pay extra?
A. You get ‘em without any extra fees whatsoever. It’s part of your subscription.
Q. Can I get a sneak peek at how it all works? How about letting me try a couple of lessons?
A. Sure, why not. Head over to the KelbyTraining site, and click the “Try it Now (Free)” link at the top. You can watch the first three lessons from any of the classes to get a sense of what we’re doing, how the player works, and stuff like that.
New Book on Video Podcasting

The book ships in February, but you can get the biggest discount by pre-ordering it from Amazon.com.
Final Cut Studio On the Spot – 3rd Edition is Shipping

- Optimize system performance
- Create impressive titles with Generators, Motion, LiveType, and Photoshop
- Work quickly with buttons and keyboard shortcuts
- Color correct to save vital shots, and keep them broadcast legal
- Fix and mix for professional-quality audio
- Design and import graphics seamlessly
- Integrate with other applications including Motion, Soundtrack Pro and Color
- Manage media and backup strategies
- Export and publish finished projects to tape, DVD, or the Web
Get the book here for the best price.
Want to Win Some Free Photo Gear? Then Check Out the $1,000 Question.

You vote for the best answer (pick me) and a chance to win the prizes.
The contest:
Go to peachpit.com/1000dollarquestion and vote for your favorite digital photography package—compiled by our author experts. You’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win the package that you vote for. We’ll choose one winner out of all entries.
Contest ends December 31, 2007.
New Books on iLife 08 and iWork 08

New Book on iWork ‘08 is Ready to Ship

Book Description Apple's enhanced iWork productivity suite is poised to allow Mac users to create, present, and publish their work with style. iWork '08 offers three powerful applications—Pages ’08, Keynote ’08, and the brand-new spreadsheet program, Numbers ‘08—for creating everything from newsletters and stationery to polished business presentations to graphics-rich spreadsheets. This self-paced learning guide, which includes a companion CD jam-packed with practical media files, takes readers step-by-step through essential, real-life tasks for home and office that cover all aspects of iWork '08. The book is both a self-paced learning tool and the official curriculum of the Apple Training and Certification Program, used by schools and training centers worldwide, and is ideal for users of all levels.”
Photoshop for Video Chapter 14 Posted

If you have your code ready, please visit http://booksite.focalpress.com/Harrington/ and start to download. You'll find a full-length chapter plus all of the source media needed for the exercises. It’s a big download, so be sure to have a fast Internet connection handy.
For problems or suggestions concerning the site, please contact: Technical Support.
Adobe Premiere Elements and Photoshop Elements Released
If you are a Windows user who likes to fix up their photos and video... then you should check out the new releases from Adobe. There are very solid releases with a lot of cool features. I created a few free tutorials on Premiere Elements (I love the YouTube publishing feature). You can check them out here and also learn more about Photoshop Elements.
Final Cut Studio Book is On the Presses

Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace. Read More...
New Podcast on Everything Adobe

Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace. Read More...
There’s a Rock I’ve Been Living Under...

Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace. Read More...
Free Reading
But I did write a new book and thoroughly revise another.
For your reading enjoyment and personal education.

Photoshop for Video 3rd Edition (previously titled Photoshop for Nonlinear Editors)
• Major updates with tons of new content and more than 75 new pages of material
• Over 2.5 hours of training videos
• Expanded coverage of DVD and Motion Graphics
• In-depth look at HD graphics and workflow
• Full coverage of Photoshop CS3
Download the free chapter here.
You can order the book here.

Here's a free chapter from my new book How to Wow with PowerPoint. This is the intro to the book and focusses on best practices for designing graphics for the screen (so even if you aren't a PowerPoint fan, you'll find some wholesome goodness on here). I hope you all enjoy it, If you'd like to order the book click here.
New Final Cut Express Title

I just finished a new training title on Final Cut Express. It's called Final Cut Express HD 3.5 Essential Training (but it will work for just about any version of the application). It is priced at $99, or you can view it as a member of the lynda.com online library.
Here's the official blurb:
Instructor Richard Harrington covers each detail of using Final Cut Express HD 3.5 to effectively edit, organize, and publish digital video and audio files for DVDs, web-based projects, and iPod productions. From understanding the finer points of the workspace to using the tools to their full potential, Final Cut Express HD 3.5 Essential Training teaches the complete process, using hands-on examples. Exercise files accompany this tutorial.
Duration: 6 hours
On 1 DVD
I hope you enjoy!
Free Online Class on Designing HD Graphics

Enjoy!
How to Wow for PowerPoint is On the Presses

I'm trying to get a sample chapter up this week. If you want to order it, put a pre-order into Amazon or directly at Peachpit. This way you'll get it first (heck we might even get the book out before Microsoft gets the software out).
New Training DVDs Released

We've also significantly updated two of our best sellers: An Inside Look at the HVX-200 and a guide to working with HD Media. There are these and several more available at VASST.com. We hope you enjoy them!
New DVD – Motion Control: Turning Photos into Moving Footage

Motion Control: Using Photoshop and After Effects To Tranform Still Images into Moving Footage
No longer locked to a stationary position on screen, your photos now possess distinct storytelling abilities. Join Richard Harrington, Photoshop and motion graphics guru, as he reveals the top techniques used by pros to bring still images to life. This DVD will benefit all users interested in improved storytelling abilities. You’ll learn essential techniques both in 2D and 3D space.
- Adobe Photoshop essentials
- Traditional two-dimensional motion control
- Using 3D cameras
- Working in 3D space
- Using 3D lighting to enhance your images
- Performing advanced camera operations
- Original and processed images
- Adobe Photoshop and After Effects project assets
Understanding Adobe Photoshop Gets High Marks

A few months ago, my new book on Adobe Photoshop was released. I'm not one for fancy titles... so I simply called this one "Understanding Adobe Photoshop." The book combined everything I learned teaching Adobe Photoshop to both college students and working pros, and it is targeted for both new users and those who are self-taught (having never taken a full college-level class).
The book is doing well (but of course... I'd be happy to sell more). It is very well-suited for classroom use as well with hundreds of hands-on exercises (including images) as well as 4.5 hours of training videos. Enough of my thoughts... what are others saying?
Read More...
Long Delayed, But On It's Way!

New Book on Apple’s iWork

For a free handout, click here.
For more information, click here.

