New class ideas?

[DSU]

DSP would love to know if there is anything that you would like to be taught at DSU. Is there a topic that has been covered in a class but you would like to be expanded upon? Is there part of your program that you have been trying to master but just havent been able to?

If you have suggestions for classes, please leave them here or feel free to email me at dean@digitalscrapbookplace.com!

Thanks!
Amber

[Karen Bowers]

there are lots of great technical classes dsu offers, but a theme that often comes up in the chatroom is how to arrange a layout, or how to make it more artistic.

how about a design class? you know covering stuff like the rule of thirds, diagonals, color theory. it could do things like disect why some layouts, and some sketches work better than others. talking about balancing a page and controlling how the eye moves across a page. people could even submit one page to be critiqued in depth (say during a class chat) to smooth out any rough places it has.

[bpalmer]

Yeah, what they said. LOL a design class would so rock!

[Sandersmr]

How about a PSP elements class? I notice there is one on the class list, but it isn't scheduled for the next 4 months.

[skt494]

I really like the design class idea ... I'd sign up immediately!

I also wish the Word Art class would be offered again before Oct! :D :D
Wishing Hoping Praying!!

Kim

[amyvil]

I would love to see a Typography class. THANKS!!

Amy V.

[BethyNixon]

Anything on design and/or color theory, and photo composition (not technical camera stuff but what to look for to get a good shot).

[Lauren]

Look out for a layout design class very soon!!!

[bpalmer]

Yeah!!! :D can't wait!

[Karen Bowers]

how about a class on grant's tools and other PSE add ons that give us more of the PhotoShop experience?

[skt494]

Yippee a design class ... ya hoooo!

Also Karenb I second your idea ... it would be awesome too!

[amyvil]

How about a class on how to create shapes in PSE? There are many shapes in PSE that one can use to create other shapes. I would love to have a class exploring those possibilities. Thanks!

Amy V.

[BethyNixon]

The Whole Kit and Kaboodle.
A class on taking all the elements that we've learned to make and putting it together!
I've taken all sorts of classes on making elements. But somehow, when I start making things for a kit, I can't get it to gel.

The individual pieces all look great (thanks to my classes with Lauren) but they don't seem to work all together.

I'd love one (or more) of the designers to sit down and tell us how they work through putting together such great looking kits!

[Marriedin79]

Instead of taking an entire class to learn how to do something -- for example, how to create paper -- I'd be interested in paying around $5.00 for a one-time "lesson".

What if we had someone who would be willing to teach us in exchange for a small fee? You could have a list of designated "tutors" (with the lessons they could teach) for the "tutees" to hook up with.

[dobegal]

Mini-classes on special techniques - overlays, special effects, etc. .
The 4-weekers are very comprehensive, but it would be nice to just have a one day or one week class to zip through! Wfclair comes to mind with his special effects.

[Angie]

I am planning a Beginners Class for Digital Image Pro and 2006. I have a few other projects I am currently working on but as soon as these are done, I will get this class prepared.... I am open for suggestions.... Look for it in 2006!!

[Stacey Jewell Stahl]

I would love to see a Typography class. THANKS!!

Amy V.
I'm doing a new class in January, DSU295 on Creative Journaling and Typography. Hope you can join me!!

[~sarah~]

I was wondering if their will be any new classes for PSP coming soon.

[Emma]

Stacey and I are working on a PSP Montage class, but it'll be several months.

[txmusicmom]

Emma- nice new picture- WOW-- you look awesome pregnant!

Donna

[Emma]

LOL, thank you: I figured I can add a lot of Glow right now, usually I think this is a lot much :D

[evergreen100]

New Class ideas??? PSP PSP PSP PSP PSPlease!!!!! Yes, Emma, you do glow but I so miss that wink, smile and flashing dimple!

[Amber]

Thanks for all of the ideas! We are working on some more PSP classes! Keep the suggestions coming!

[nsps100]

I noticed there was a Photo Correction class for Photoshop and Rebecca says not all could be applied to PSE. So how about a Photo Correction Class for PSE.

While I am here how about a class on using Plug-Ins and Actions in PSE.

Thanks

[Emma]

It would be nice to combine the PS and PSE classes, just have PSE notes where it's either not applicable or a work-around directions. Good idea there; Lauren usually makes her kit classes PS and PSE compatible with extras and notes for PSE users where the standard instructions don't work

Actions are a total pain in PSE since most of the actions are made with multiple actions bundled into one file, and therefore not usable in PSE. Also, since it can't write its own actions, that topic would likely be more suited to a tutorial on how to install actions in PSE and determining which might work and which won't. There's just not enough for a class, actually, but a tutorial would be a good idea

In my DSU 261 class I go over how to use plug-ins and how to install them. We use one to make seamless tiles, and I include a lot of other presets in there and show how to install and use them

[skt494]

I agree - I'd love to see a class on photo enhancement for PSE!

[Lavender49]

I get masks now, but is there a class that teaches the different levels of using brushes for PSP (like what you have for PS and PSE). I don't even understand how to use or make brushes.

[Emma]

no there's not one for PSP, but I have plans to write one next fall/next winter if no one beats me to it. The Montage class should, hopefully be done this summer, and will talk about brushes a lot too.

[ChiChi]

How about a class on using the Wacom tablet. I'm completely stumped!

[LoriD]

I get masks now, but is there a class that teaches the different levels of using brushes for PSP (like what you have for PS and PSE). I don't even understand how to use or make brushes.
We cover brushes in DSU231, Paint Shop Pro: Creating Digital Elements for Beginners, and cover some alternatives to brushes in DSU331, Paint Shop Pro: Creating Digital Elements for Advanced Users. I'm also developing a second-level advanced PSP class that will include brushes.

Lori

[LoriD]

Is there any interest in an Alien Skin filters class? What I'd cover is Eye Candy 5: Impact, Eye Candy 5: Textures, Xenofex 2, and Splat! If you don't have these filters, you could download 30-day fully functional demos to use during the class.

For information on Alien Skin filters, go to http://www.alienskin.com/

Lori

[LoriD]

How about a class on using the Wacom tablet. I'm completely stumped!
This might be something that could be covered in a 1-week or 2-week mini-class. Besides installation and setup, what would you like to see in the class? For sure, tablet-related brush variance/brush dynamics would be central, but is there anything else?

Lori

[my6lilmonsters]

How about a PSP brushes class....like how to create them then install them. I am having the most difficult time especially trying to zip the files to share or sell. I can't find the .pspscript and .pspbrush files:)

Jen

[my6lilmonsters]

Lori-

I would be interested:)

Jen

[ErinBoBerin]

I would like a more intermediate/advanced photoshop class. I'm self taught, so I know there's a bunch I don't know, but I seemed to be comfortable with everything taught in the photoshop class.

[LoriD]

How about a PSP brushes class....like how to create them then install them. I am having the most difficult time especially trying to zip the files to share or sell. I can't find the .pspscript and .pspbrush files:)
Jen
Creating brushes is covered in PSP elements for beginners, Jen. I could easily add a paragraph in the relevant lesson on how to "install" a downloaded brush and/or develop a mini-class about creating and distributing brushes.

To install a third-party brush, all you have to do is place the PspBrush and PspScript files for the brush in your Brushes folder. (Some simple brushes will have only a PspScript file.)

To zip up your own brushes to distribute, look in your Brushes folder. Suppose you created a custom brush and called your brush MyBrush. You'll find two files: one named MyBrush.PspBrush and one named BrushTip_MyBrush.PspScript. Zip those two files up and there you are!

If you save a preset for one of the brush tools, the preset will be in your Presets folder. For example, if you saved a preset for the PaintBrush and called the preset Chalk, then the preset file will be Preset_PaintBrush_Chalk.PspScript. (Keep in mind that this preset will be available for the PaintBrush tool but not for other brush tools.)

Hope that cleared things up! :)

Lori

[Hattitudes]

I would like to see a class on colour management in Photoshop.
It seems there are a fair share of people getting less then satisfactory results when printing with photoshop.

thanks

[suvgal]

I'm interested in taking courses but don't know where to start. I have DIP and I notice many of the scrapers refer to Photoshop. Should I get that in order to take classes? I've read the intro class and have managed to do some lay outs. I really enjoyed the Heritage freebies and got started using them.Have I posted in the right place?

[ErinBoBerin]

suvgal, a lot of us do use photoshop, but you don't have too. It is very expensive. I think there are some classes on using dip too. Click on the classes link up above.

[txmusicmom]

I would like to see a class ( probably a SHORT one) on

TITLES -- style, fonts, techniques, making them POP out..........

At least I feel I need to improve on this one!

Donna

[ErinBoBerin]

Not a class idea, but it would be really cool is when 2 week courses are offered during a month, they be stagered, so you can take them both in one month, but not at the same time. For example, next month I want to take a word art and picasa class, and it would be cool if I could take one the first 2 weeks of the month, and the other the second 2 weeks.

[Mars]

I don't know where to ask this so I will just put my question here and hope I get an answer. I am sure this is not complicated but I have never really been able to find my way around this site. I want to know where to look for a list of classes available and when they start. In particular I would like to take a class to help me learn to use PSP8 and a class to learn to make scrapbook elements. Thanks.

[nekobus]

Hi Mars,

At the top or left menu navigation for the site is the link for the classes (I've included it below, too). The classes are listed first by the month they are offered (currently showing May, June and July). And if you scroll down further on that page, there's a list of all classes by class#, with a description of each.

Hope that helps.

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/university/classes.shtml

[BethyNixon]

Mars:
If you go here:
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/university/classes.shtml

There's a list of classes.
First, you'll see classes that will be offered in May, then June, then July.

If you keep scrolling past the July classes, you'll see a list of ALL the classes that are offered.
If I find a class I want to take, I go to the store and search on that class and that sometimes tells the next time it's offered.

Or ask about a particular class. Someone might know something that's not listed on the site.

(edited: hey, look at that Chris and I were answering at the same time!!)

[Mars]

Thanks for the quick answers. That is just what I needed.

[Emma]

if you go to the Store and DSU Registration you'll see a list there, but the one on the classes page has more in-depth descriptions (same description as in the store, but you have to click on the product to see it)

For learning PSP, you'll want DSU 130: Intro to PSP taught by me, then follow up with DSU 231: Element Creation in PSP taught by Lori Davis

[Emma]

I would like to see a class ( probably a SHORT one) on

TITLES -- style, fonts, techniques, making them POP out..........

At least I feel I need to improve on this one!

Donna
The Titles class sounds liek the existing word art class, DSU 195. Have you taken that one yet?

I'd like to see a class on typography, including titles AND the journaling (not what to say, but attractive ways to display the text). Balancing the text blocks, journaling in shapes, different alighments. I know for print ads typography is a huge subject, and we could learn a lot from it as scrappers.

TINA? An idea for you?

[Sandersmr]

Emma - Stacey's Journaling class DSU 295 also covers the typography stuff, including alignment, positioning, etc. It's a great class!

[Tina]

Emma, most of that is covered in Stacey's typography class :)

[Tina]

oh! you beat me maggie ;)

[Tara]

How about a class on using patterned papers? Specifically focusing on how to mix patterns and colors...some people make such gorgeous layouts using 8 different patterns but when I try it just looks like a big mess!!! I know there was a class on this at a recent Scrapbook Expo near me...but I wasn't able to make it to the Expo. Wah!!!

In quilting, I know there is a trick to picking out patterns that work together...one big, one small...or something (I'm not a quilter...but someone told me this)...I figure there must be some tricks here too.

Perhaps this is too small of a subject for a class...maybe it could be a special crop?

[scraplikecrazy]

I would like a class on using the features of PSE, I am not a newbie to the program, but not advanced either. I am intermediate. I know the basics and a little more. I don't know how to do a lot though, and I cannot find any classes or tutorials here or elsewhere on things the dodge and burn features, filters, etc. (I may just be missing it in class descriptions)., etc, that are features of my program or similar programs. I don't want to make elements, I just want to make better layouts and adjust elements and backgrounds to work better? Does this make sense? So, I feel like some of the classes sound too easy, others too advanced or specific. I'd like something more intermediate and focused on using the general "hidden" features of PSE or similar programs.

[Emma]

I think the PSE element-creation classes would work for you since I show TOOLS not just how to make this thing only. In fact, the last lesson on the advanced course tries to demonstrate more of a thought process and how to figure things out using the tools you already learned. Generalizing things. Also, the brushes class does the same thing. So many tools use brushes, like Smudge, Dodge, etc, and that class shows them all

[Phos4us]

I would love to see a PSP advanced elements class !

I also really like the idea of a "one time fee/lesson" set of short classes. That way we could pick and choose precisely what it is we want to learn !

[scraplikecrazy]

Thanks Emma, I think you're right, I will try your suggestions!

[umajo]

just reading some comments i think we need a class on shadowing i use pse4

[christinaquilts]

I would love to see a PSP advanced elements class !

I also really like the idea of a "one time fee/lesson" set of short classes. That way we could pick and choose precisely what it is we want to learn !


I love these ideas! I would take a class on PSP advanced elements myself and WISH so much you had one!!!

[Greenfingers]

Yes I echo what PHOS4US says: One Off classes and advanced PSP:)

[ErinBoBerin]

I would totally love a class focusing on graphic style layouts. I love them, but they are just sooo out of my comfort zone.

[Emma]

that's a good idea, and maybe its counterpart for paper-style for those who don't "see" that way. For now, the montage class should feed your need, a lot of artsy graphic stuff in there, more than just basic montages

[Emma]

have you taken PSP 331 for making advanced elements? Lori Davis teaches that one, it's great

[LoriD]

have you taken PSP 331 for making advanced elements? Lori Davis teaches that one, it's great
Thanks, Emma. :)

Here's the syllabus for DSU331, the PSP advanced elements class:

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/university/DSU/Syllabi/331syllabus.htm

There's a session going on right now, in fact.

I'm also working on an advanced PSP techniques class where we'll take in-depth looks at such things as blend modes and blend ranges; advanced brush variance control, brush presets, and brush creation; creation methods and scrapping uses for Picture Tubes and Picture Frames; and text manipulation. If anyone has other topics that they'd like to see covered in such a course, please let me know.

Lori
lori@digitalscrapbookplace.com

[corinnacs]

I could use a more detailed photography course, dealing with manual settings, depth of field, etc. Maybe especially for the SLR owners?? There's a ton of stuff I need to learn to get great photos!

[joanne11]

I would like to see a class just dedicated to making all kinds of backgrounds. I know some of the classes here already have a few backgrounds in their class content. I can give some examples of what I was talking about, if you need some visual examples.


thanks

[ebears]

I saw someone mentioned a PLUGIN course - i am interested - would love to know more about settings etc in virtual photographerm sinedots, etc

[greeneyedgirl47]

What about fixing photos with your software?

[Emma]

there is a photo retouching class for PS only, Suzanne Walker is teaching it now. I can't remember the course number. Hopefully someday someone will make one for PSE and PSP!

[lvg4him]

what about not just fixing your photos but photo manipulation? you know, using actions to make your photo really POP! Like not just the basic desaturation, but going through after you desaturate and making it look good. Kinda like the stuff Picasa and other programs do, but you learn to do it for yourself. (or is there a book out there about this?)

[Emma]

I've been busy making layouts and lessons for the new PS/PSE montage class opening January 1 :yahoo: :clap:
http://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&manufacturers_id=21&products_id=3872

This class hits on many of the ideas posted in this thread. The PSP version, DSU 241 has run several sessions, and is also open for sign ups now.

It also has an entire lesson (3) on photo manipulations using filters, channels, blend modes, etc. Making photos surreal, correcting them, or adding effects to bad photos to make them usable.

[Sharon1313]

I'm interested in a class that shows creative ways to incorporate journaling into a page. I so often find that I've designed a beautiful page but then am trying to jam in a journaling block somewhere. A lot of the current styles are just for one big photo on a page with minimal journaling, but I'm wordy (can't you tell) and like to include a story on most of my pages. I know HOW to write it, but struggle with where to place it.

[stitchmich]

I too would love a class on photo retouching and manipulation in PSP. Emma, do you mean that lesson 3 in the PSP class covers this? And is that class still on for Feb?

Also, I see there is a holiday card class but how about a card-making class for the rest of the year. ;)

[~sarah~]

i'm not sure if this is already covered but i would like to see a class on creating papers, ribbons, mats ect.

[Emma]

yep, Sarah: I thik you've signed up for DSU 231 to do this in PSP with Lori Davis.

There is photo manipulation in the DSU 221 for Adobe and 241 for PSP, and there is a photo retouching class for PSP in the idea bin. It'll be awhile. For plugins, that's covered in the 221/241 montage courses on photo manipulation.

Sharon, right now there are no plans for a journaling or typography class, but it's high on the to-do list.

[bjc]

any possibility of a class on acdesee.... i just downloaded and i think i could use some classes..... you have a picassa class so how about this one???

[sueya]

I noticed there is no PSP brush class - do you plan to introduce one in the future?

[BethyNixon]

Sharon . . . I'll be teaching a journaling/typography class in April!! The link to the class is in my siggie!

[joanne11]

I would like to see a class just dedicated to making all kinds of backgrounds. I know some of the classes here already have a few backgrounds in their class content. I can give some examples of what I was talking about, if you need some visual examples.

[Emma]

all the Montage classes (221 and 241) have a lesson on making painted and abstract backgrounds. The Element Creation classes (211/311 PS, 261/361 PSE, 231/331 PSP) have sections on making plaid and striped backgrounds. The brushes courses (220 PS, 270 PSE) have sections on making several types of backgrounds and papers with brushes.

What specifically did you have in mind? It's a good idea to have a backgrounds class, it's such a common request in the forums that people want to make themselves.

[carlalee]

Is there a chance of the word art class coming back? We are fortunate enough to have one of the best word artists on the web in our own back yard. Yoo Hoo Tina??? Care to share your knowledge with us??? TY -c-

[cabin fever]

I would like a class on advanced element making, such as flowers, multi-layered bows, ladybugs, jewels, etc! I would also like to see certificates of participation provided to those wishing to add them to a profesisonal training profile.

[Emma]

cabin fever, have you taken 211/311/312 for PS or 261/361 PSE or 231/331/332 for PSP? If so, which lesson would be the closest to what you're looking for and needs expanding in a more advanced class?

The certificate is something we're trying to figure out. It's hard since we're not accredited like a community college, but some sort of "lay" document saying you completed the course would definitely be possible. You could ask the teacher directly, or the dean, if you have something specific in mind. We did used to have little diplomas we handed out to everyone, so that type of informal thing would be easy to do again.

[cabin fever]

Hi there, Emma -

I take the PS classes. So far, I've taken classes 110, 190, 195, 220, 221, 290, 311 & 312. Boy, have they all be terrific! I've also signed up for your advanced montage class in Sept, and I've signed up for one in October. It's a gift that I give to myself, that keeps on giving. I guess I am looking for a "313" class that can provide me an instruction for designing complex and realistic looking flowers, bows and other creative flair. But then, I also want peace on earth! :)

[twinsmomflor]

Also, It used to be an overlays and other elements class that Lauren used to teach. Now it is called DSU292.
Whatever advanced elements? I'll be happy. I took 110 190 192 195 211 215 220 221 225 250 290 311 312. I am now taking 321 yeah!!!
I have so much fun in the classes that's my treat. I can't wait for another photoshop class....

[joanne11]

I would like to see a class just dedicated in creating backgrounds. Layered, blended, grunged, stripes, plaids, patterns, etc.

[bjc]

i am having so much fun and learning in the self portrait gallery but would love a photo class.... one like the photo a day or self portrait..... but where a photo teacher would give you help on how to do what you wanted to do.... in other words the photographer control the camera in stead of the other way around...lol.... i love the comments people leave at the self portrait or pad gallery but would love the expertise of a teacher and the teacher could feel comfortable to tell you how to do it better or suggest things...i know there are one or two photo classes...and i loved the one with the backdrop you make but i would love some other photo classes....

[sherryva]

I echo bjc- I would love an Acdsee class! I am taking the Lightroom class now, and if I could find my elements, I would enjoy scrapping that much more.

[bjc]

yes and acdsee class would be great....i love it but it does a lot and learning all the ins and outs would make it that much better. i use it for organizing only not for scrapping...and love the ease it gives me to find my stuff..

[Teresa]

How about a class in time management to yeild maximum time to scrap and one in guilting husbands into believing that DSP and scrapping is the best use of our time. It is way more important than anything else and that they should just make dinner and throw in a load of laundry while they are at it. That would be a good class.

[dagwood]

I would like a class that will teach me to make my own scissors templates....eg...I would like to make scallop, waves or pinked circles Both inside and outside the circle...the same thing in frames and mats with mitered edges.....also waves and curves but all with different edges.....in templates that I can then cut the designers papers into

[mamawsandy]

All of the above. I really need to learn Photoshop and Adobe CS2 and 3.
I also want more ideas about how to make paper, elements, and flourishes.
mamawsandy

[Tusele]

I'm still hoping the journalling dsu will be re-listed!! Anyone who joins me?!!

[Emma]

we'd love another journaling class: just looking for a teacher who wants to take it on. Spread the word!

[grannypatt]

I'd like to sign up for the class that Woodsy Woman suggested.. I'd love that class:pumpkin2::pumpkin:

[Kellym31ca]

Just a thought and not sure if it was suggested already ... but a Photoshop class dedicated to photo editing.

Kelly :)

[Roberta T]

I too would like to see a course just on making backgrounds with depth and complexity. I think it would be a very popular course for anyone who loves the designing part of Photoshopping.

[sherryva]

I havent read all of the previous 95 posts, but BLENDING MODES- I have done the tutorials and practiced, but keep seeing all these great layouts achieved with blending modes vs extractions and seems the possibilities are endless, and the results are phenomenal vs extractions (which try my patience to no end.)
(I use pse6).

[yvspeck]

Looks like it's been quite a while since anyone made DSU class suggestions.... Looking through the NKOTB Rd #1's and reading suggestion post I couldn't help thinking a class devoted just to drop shadows would be so great.... Simple drop shadow principles, what to do with pre-shadowed embellishments that are rotated, and creative drop shadowing. Think there are lots of us that would benefit from drop shadow help..

[Jeneeo]

How about a class on Lightroom please????

[elizabethlmccoy]

Looks like it's been quite a while since anyone made DSU class suggestions.... Looking through the NKOTB Rd #1's and reading suggestion post I couldn't help thinking a class devoted just to drop shadows would be so great.... Simple drop shadow principles, what to do with pre-shadowed embellishments that are rotated, and creative drop shadowing. Think there are lots of us that would benefit from drop shadow help..

I soo agree!!! I'd love to see a class just on shadowing!!!!!!! I think that'd be soo what I need to take my scrapbooking to the next level!! I've seen alot out there with really creative shadowing.

[mcbowersox]

I soo agree!!! I'd love to see a class just on shadowing!!!!!!! I think that'd be soo what I need to take my scrapbooking to the next level!! I've seen alot out there with really creative shadowing.

I, too, would LOVE a class on shadowing! Sometimes shadows just give me fits! I even have a hard time seeing them!

[Lauren]

I have a tutorial on warping shadows on my blog .
http://create4u.blogspot.com/2008/11/technique-tuesday-lifted-edge-illusion.html

In fact if you do a search on my blog for technique tuesday you will find a large range of tutorials.
DSP also has a great resource of tutorials right here !!!!!-

[Carla]

I agree that the tutorials here at DSP are some of the best that I have seen across the web in the digi world. Sometimes, folks just need a little extra input and a helping hand from someone in the know can be very helpful. I would like to suggest mini classes for some of the things that have been suggested...such as the drop shadows. That would be something that I would even be interested in.

[Memouse]

I wouls love to see a class that would help us to design shapes and outlines so that we can create cutout for our papers. Waves, irregular lines and other things better

[nekobus]

Thanks for the ideas. Keep em coming!