Photoshop Mechanics

Greg Apodaca

ADVANCED Photoshop techniques for ADVANCED users. (Brought to you by Greg Apodaca, "Floyd") Thanks for visiting the site.

  • 008 Combining Adjustment Layers
    Merging adjustments into a Map file.
    For Photoshop v6 to Present.

    This technique allows users to merge several different kinds of Adjustment Layers into a Map file (.amp) that can be loaded into a single Curves Adjustment layer.
    27 January 2012, 3:09 am
  • 007 Adjustment Layer Inspector
    Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.
    For Photoshop v6 to Present.

    This tool generates interactive UI that allows users to compare Adjustment Layers and Modes. Though there have been previous versions of this file, going back as early as 2002, this final format was created in 2003, and has recently been updated to work properly in 16bit mode.
    21 January 2012, 3:09 am
  • 006 Keyboard Shortcut Template
    Keyboard Shortcut preset and design template.
    For Photoshop vCS2 to Present.

    These Keyboard Shortcuts were designed for CS2, but still work just fine in this current version of CS5. I plan to overhaul them next version.

    They do not interfere with the Default shortcuts. They just add to them. A Template is also included that allows users to design their own.
    21 August 2011, 2:09 am
  • 005 Five Ways To Free Distort A Smart Object
    Alternative techniques for mimicking free distortion.
    For Photoshop CS2 to vCS3 Extended.

    Here are the five methods that I use to Free Distort Smart Objects. A sample file and related actions can be downloaded below.

    I’ve been getting more and more requests from coworkers and clients to set up files with editable Smart Objects. They want easy to understand files that they can drop new content into and have it automatically update into distorted shapes...
    11 July 2008, 2:09 am
  • 004 Sharpening Adjustment Layers
    How to non-destructively sharpen layers without Smart Filters.
    For Photoshop v6 to v9.

    Use an action to create an adjustment layer that can     sharpen or blur an image. Additional filters can be used on the adjustment layer mask to refine the sharpening effect.
    18 October 2006, 6:44 pm
  • 003 Noise Layers Without Adding File Size
    Create noise and dithering using Layer Effects and Modes.
    For Photoshop v6 to present.

    Generate     noise without increasing file size. Layer effects and adjustment layers can be tricked out to add random noise on the fly. Ever use the Inner Glow Jitter Slider? Have you ever used Dissolve mode? Here you will find a practical application for them.
    2 October 2006, 12:56 am
  • 002 Converting RGB Files To Grayscale
    Manipulation of color and alternative conversion techniques.
    For Photoshop v6 to present.

    This episode shows multiple techniques for Grayscale conversion. A set of Actions is included to help automate the procedures. These techniques are based on concepts learned in episode 001.
    17 September 2006, 12:56 am
  • 001 Grayscale And Luminosity 30-59-11
    The relationship between Color and Luminosity modes.
    For Photoshop v6 to present.

    Photoshop uses the     RGB values of 30, 59 and 11, to simulate a more accurate representation of grayscale. These are the magic numbers behind the Color and Luminosity modes. This episode introduces some important concepts about RGB to Grayscale conversion. I plan to follow soon with an episode that covers multiple techniques for converting files to Grayscale.
    30 August 2006, 12:56 am
  • 000 Introduction
    Welcome to Photoshop Mechanics, the podcast for Photoshop professionals.
    This podcast features tips and tricks, for the high end user.

    Most of the earlier episodes are in an enhanced audio format that uses slideshow imagery. Most of the later episodes are in a true video format. Thanks for visiting. -Greg Apodaca
    15 February 2006, 1:56 am
  • More Episodes? Get the App