Re:Ask HN: Do you know Photoshop?
by statictype on Friday February 11, 2011 @01:00PM
(#2207406)
Yes please.
I recently discovered that I could create reasonably decent looking UI elements using only layer styles. I assume there are better ways to do it.
Re:Ask HN: Do you know Photoshop?
by chaosmachine on Friday February 11, 2011 @01:13PM
(#2207471)
Layer styles are an incredibly underrated feature, IMO.
I actually built a small business around them: http://photoshoplayerstyles.com/
Those are pretty good, nice work! /me bookmarks
Re:Ask HN: Do you know Photoshop?
by alextgordon on Friday February 11, 2011 @01:06PM
(#2207433)
Nope. Layer styles were pretty much designed for doing exactly that.
Don't underestimate the value of layer styles. In fact I would say that for most UI design 80% of the "visual style" can be achieved via layer styles.
Just make sure to Name and Group your layers, otherwise you can end up with 100s of layers named Layer N with undecipherable thumbnails. Also it's nice to save your most commonly used layer styles to swatches.
Absolutely. I'd also recommend the tutorials at Lynda.com for really in-depth overviews - they have a whole set of tutorials focused on web design with CS5: http://www.lynda.com/home/ViewCourses.aspx?lpk0=116
That said, Lynda.com is subscription-based and tends to be lengthy. A short set of tutorials on key techniques would be a great resource.
Yes, Photoshop knowledge is one of the major gaps in my toolset. I'm a little ashamed that I have to go to a designer for basic interface elements.
Re:Ask HN: Do you know Photoshop?
by simplegeek on Friday February 11, 2011 @01:41PM
(#2207588)
Please do. This is one of the things I would really like to learn this year. Looking forward ;)
I would be interested in a set of tutorials on buttons, drop shadows, torn paper effects, header design, logo design text effects - all of the stuff that I use or need to use Photoshop for.
Re:Ask HN: Do you know Photoshop?
by hashbrown7 on Friday February 11, 2011 @03:59PM
(#2208108)
Yes, I tend to get discouraged at the photoshop hurdle.
Would there be any interest?