Lesson 33: Exploring new Photoshop features and plugins

Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will:

• Discover the latest features introduced in recent Photoshop updates.
• Understand how to integrate plugins to extend Photoshop’s capabilities.
• Explore practical applications of new tools to enhance your workflow.
• Identify resources to stay updated with evolving Photoshop technology.

Definitions

Plugin: A software add-on that adds specific features or functions to a larger software application.
Neural Filters: AI-powered Photoshop filters that allow for quick, intelligent edits such as skin smoothing or style transfer.
Cloud Documents: Files saved and synced in Adobe’s cloud for seamless access and collaboration.
Content-Aware Fill: An intelligent tool that fills selected areas by analyzing surrounding pixels to blend seamlessly.

Introduction

Adobe Photoshop continually evolves to meet the needs of modern designers. Staying updated with new features and plugins can dramatically improve your creative process, save time, and open new creative possibilities. This lesson guides you through recent Photoshop innovations and how to incorporate plugins effectively.

Recent Key Features to Explore

1. Neural Filters

• Use AI-driven filters to quickly retouch portraits, change expressions, or even colorize black-and-white images.
• Experiment with creative filters for unique effects.

2. Enhanced Object Selection Tool

• Improved AI makes selecting complex objects easier and more accurate with fewer clicks.
• Use for faster masking and compositing.

3. Sky Replacement Tool

• Swap skies effortlessly to transform the mood and atmosphere of your images.
• Customize lighting and colors to match the new sky.

4. Live Shapes and Improved Properties Panel

• Adjust shapes and layers with more precision and intuitive controls.
• Modify stroke, fill, and dimensions on the fly.

5. Cloud Documents & Collaboration

• Save your work to the cloud for easy access from any device.
• Collaborate with teammates directly within Photoshop.

Popular Plugins to Boost Your Workflow

1. Topaz Labs

• AI-powered sharpening, noise reduction, and creative effects.

2. Nik Collection

• Advanced filters for color correction and artistic effects.

3. Fontself Maker

• Create custom fonts directly within Photoshop.

4. Luminar AI

• AI-driven photo enhancer and creative filter plugin.

5. Adobe Exchange

• Access a variety of free and paid plugins to customize your workspace.

How to Install and Manage Plugins

• Access the Adobe Creative Cloud marketplace.
• Download and install plugins directly from Photoshop’s Plugins menu.
• Manage plugin updates and preferences via the Creative Cloud app.

Suggested Activities

1. Neural Filters Exploration: Apply different neural filters to a portrait photo and compare the results.
2. Sky Replacement Practice: Choose a landscape photo and replace the sky using the new tool.
3. Plugin Trial: Download a free plugin from Adobe Exchange and test how it integrates with your workflow.
4. Create a Cloud Document: Save a current project to the cloud and access it on another device.

Reflection Questions

• Which new Photoshop feature excites you the most and why?
• How can plugins help you overcome current workflow challenges?
• What strategies will you use to stay updated on Photoshop’s evolving tools?

Further Reading & Resources

🌐 Adobe Photoshop What’s New: adobe.com/photoshop/whats-new
🌐 Adobe Creative Cloud Plugins: creativecloud.adobe.com/apps/plugins
📚 Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book (latest edition)
🌐 YouTube Channels: Adobe Photoshop, PHLEARN, Piximperfect

Lesson Wrap-Up

Embracing new Photoshop features and plugins keeps your design practice fresh, efficient, and innovative. By exploring and experimenting with these tools, you unlock creative potential and sharpen your competitive edge.

Action Step: Explore at least two new Photoshop features or plugins this week and share your discoveries and creations with the course community.