Specific Image Editing Tools
You will find that your software program offers quite a wide array of image manipulation tools. Take some time to learn about the uses of each tool. Here is an overview of graphic tools that typically are found in image editors. Different programs have different tools, although there is quite a bit of overlap among programs. Tools with similar functions often have different names.
Many tools have a number of additional settings you can make from a submenu. For example, with the paintbrush you may be able to choose the size, shape, and style of brush as well as the transparency of the color you are applying.
Use these tools to clean up your photo a bit.
Smudge: Lets you blur or sharpen certain areas of an image
Sponge: Adjusts color saturation
Highlight/midtone/shadow: Allows brightening/darkening of different areas
Gradient: Creates a smooth transition from one color to another
Rubber stamp/cloning tool: Allows you to copy, or clone, parts of an image
Eraser: Eliminates any unwanted area
Select areas for processing or move areas around.
Lasso: Selects an area of the image
Magic wand: Allows you to select pixels based on similar colors
Marquee/crop: Allows you to select rectangular and elliptical areas for cropping
Move: Allows you to move selected areas and layers
Hand: Moves the image around the screen
Paint with wild brush strokes or tiny points.
Airbrush: Sprays color (“paint”) onto the image
Paint bucket: Lets you fill specific areas of an image with a particular color
Paintbrush: Allows you to color your image; has a softer edge than the pencil tool
Pencil: Allows you to hand draw or color; has a harder edge than the paintbrush tool
Type: Lets you add text to the image
Use these tools to help you as you work.
History brush: Allows you to undo certain areas
Zoom: Magnifies the image for easier retouching
Measure: A ruler that measures the image
Eyedropper: Allows you to sample and duplicate a color from an image
Most digital controls can be set precisely at a specific number. When you find a critical point where, for example, color or contrast changes markedly, move the controls number by number to see what changes the tools makes. Use a note-taking program such as the free Treepad program to keep track of your settings. You will save hours of time later when you refer to your notes.
