DA 110 Introduction To Photoshop

School of Arts and Technology

DA 110 Introduction to Photoshop introduces students to the fundamental tools and functions available in Adobe Photoshop. Students will use colour correction techniques, image editing tools, filters and effects to enhance photographs. Students will work with layers, become proficient with a variety of selection tools and apply the skills learned to create complex projects. This course prepares students for more advanced projects in DA 112 Digital Image Making and DA 113 Design Narrative.

Corequisite: DA 101

Accessibility Services Notice

Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – NoBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours60
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture3
Lab (lab, field, computer)1

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Explain screen image resolution and the difference between raster/bitmap images and vector illustration
  2. Create, use, move and modify selections and objects inside Photoshop
  3. Edit photographs
  4. Create an organized layers palette
  5. Use blend modes, corrective filters and effects
  6. Create and edit vector shapes and fill and paint images
  7. Create custom artwork
  8. Demonstrate a professional workflow

Teaching and Learning Approach

Through demonstration and follow-along tutorials, students are introduced to tools and processes in Adobe Photoshop. Assignments reinforce the skills explored, and increase in complexity throughout the semester.

Learning Resources

Required: None Recommended: None

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. Photoshop overview, discussion of vector vs. raster, and image resolution 2. Basic selection tools, modifying selections, introduction to basic compositing, creating a layer mask 3. Colour correction, adjustment layers, and introduction to painting in Photoshop 4. Image editing methods and more selection tools. Trickery in digital image manipulation. 5. AI and digital media. 6. Creating vector graphics in Photoshop, building radial motifs and repeating patterns 7. In class image editing 8. Working with custom brushes. Appropriation in digital art. 9. Using images and brushes to created captivating GIFs. Stop-motion animation in relation to GIF production. 10. Using images and Brushes to create a painting. Creating tilt shift images. 11. Working with archival images to create a new artwork. Reimagining history. 12. Knowledge sharing. Peer and instructor feedback/analysis of progress to date on Final Project 13. Final project DRAFT presentations. 14. Final Project Presentations 15. Wrap up and reflection.

Assessment

TitleLearning OutcomesValue
Assignment 1: Photoshop Overview2, 3, 45%
Assignment 2: Basic Selection Tools, Compositing2, 45%
Assignment 3: Colorizing images/painting tools Assignment 4: A - Image Editing/Photo2, 45%
Retouching/Colour Correction B - Trickery4, 610%
Assignment 5: Vector Graphics/Creating Patterns Midterm Project Part A: Creating a Promotional2, 3, 4, 8 Page5%
for a Music Student2, 3, 4, 815%
Midterm Project Part B: Restoring a damaged Assignment 6: Creating a GIF to Engage aphoto 2, 3, 4, 8 Target15%
Audience2, 3, 55%
Assignment 7: Create a unique painting using and imagerybrushes 3, 5, 75%
Assignment 8: Working with archival images3, 5, 75%
Mini Presentation: Teach a technique1, 85%
Final Project: Compositing a Complex CustomArtwork 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 815%
Participation and Discussion Contributions1-85%
Total100%

Grading Table

Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table

Percentage Letter Grade GPA
90-100 A+ 4.33
85-89 A 4.00
80-84 A- 3.67
76-79 B+ 3.33
72-75 B 3.00
68-71 B- 2.67
64-67 C+ 2.33
60-63 C 2.00
55-59 C- 1.67
50-54 P 1.00
0-49 F 0.00
  DNW 0.00

See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.