<br /> In the ever-evolving world of digital imaging, it's easy to get caught up in the latest features and AI-powered tools. However, as I discovered in a recent conversation with Photoshop Hall of Famer Dave Cross, the key to true Photoshop mastery lies in a rock-solid understanding of the fundamentals.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Dave Cross, with over 34 years of experience teaching Adobe software, brings a unique perspective to the table. As an Adobe Certified Instructor, Certified Technical Trainer, and three-time Adobe MAX Master Instructor, Dave has witnessed firsthand the evolution of Photoshop from its early days to its current AI-enhanced incarnation. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Dave continues to lead Photoshop education via his wildly popular <a href="https://fvj.me/pssummit">Photoshop Virtual Summit</a>, we discuss the how's and why's of this virtual conference, and the benefits of time-shifted distance learning.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> About Dave Cross<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> https://youtu.be/pBs-P3gmXZk<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> The Power of Foundational Knowledge<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> "The fundamentals of Photoshop are like the grammar of a language," Dave explained. "You can use translation tools, but to truly communicate, you need to understand the underlying structure." <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> This analogy perfectly encapsulates why mastering the basics remains crucial, even as Photoshop introduces more automated features.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Dave emphasized that a strong foundation in areas like layers, masks, and selections not only enhances creativity but also problem-solving skills.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> "When you understand how Photoshop 'thinks,'" he noted, "you can approach any task with confidence, whether you're using the latest AI tool or a technique that's been around for decades."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Balancing Automation and Manual Control<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> One of the most interesting parts of our discussion centered on the balance between embracing new technologies and maintaining manual skills. Dave shared an anecdote from his teaching experience: <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> "I once had a student who relied heavily on AI-powered selection tools. When faced with a complex image where the AI struggled, they were at a loss. But another student, who had mastered manual selection techniques, quickly solved the problem."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> This story illustrates a crucial point: while AI and automation can be incredibly useful, they're most powerful when complementing a solid skill set, not replacing it.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> The Evolving Landscape of Photoshop Education<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> As someone who has taught at prestigious events like Photoshop World, Adobe MAX, and Imaging USA, Dave has a unique perspective on how Photoshop education has changed. He noted that while online resources have made learning more accessible, they've also created a challenge: <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> "There's so much information out there, it can be overwhelming. The key is to focus on building a strong foundation first, then expanding from there."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> This philosophy is reflected in Dave's approach to the Photoshop Virtual Summits he's been running since 2020. These events offer free classes from world-class instructors, emphasizing both fundamental skills and cutting-edge techniques.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="https://fvj.me/pssummit"></a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Looking to the Future<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Dave about the future of Photoshop and digital imaging. His response was both exciting and grounding: <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> "The tools will continue to evolve, and that's fantastic. But the principles of good design, effective editing, and creative problem-solving – those are timeless.

This Week in Photo (TWiP)

This Week in Photo

Photoshop, and Moving Beyond AI – with Dave Cross

OCT 4, 202471 MIN
This Week in Photo (TWiP)

Photoshop, and Moving Beyond AI – with Dave Cross

OCT 4, 202471 MIN

Description

In the ever-evolving world of digital imaging, it's easy to get caught up in the latest features and AI-powered tools. However, as I discovered in a recent conversation with Photoshop Hall of Famer Dave Cross, the key to true Photoshop mastery lies in a rock-solid understanding of the fundamentals. Dave Cross, with over 34 years &#8230;