Photoshop User – August 2020

Inside the August 2020 Issue of Photoshop User

This August 2020 edition of Photoshop User magazine (Vol. 23, No. 7) is a thorough resource for anyone who works with Adobe Photoshop. Whether you’re a photographer, designer, or digital artist, this issue delivers practical, step-by-step guidance from some of the most respected voices in the industry. The cover art by KelbyOne member Brigitte Gathercole-Day sets the tone for a month focused on refinement, creativity, and the kind of detail work that separates good images from great ones.

Techniques That Push Your Edits Further

The feature article, “The Perfect Match: Color Editing to Create Product Options That Don’t Exist Yet!” by Mark Heaps, dives into a common commercial challenge: showing products in colors that haven’t been manufactured. Mark walks through the process of creating accurate color variations that look real, a skill that’s invaluable for marketing mockups and product previews. In “The Perfect Selection: Complex Selections: The Tattoo,” you’ll learn how to isolate intricate details—like tattoos—with precision, a task that tests even experienced retouchers. “Photoshop Proving Ground: Synthetic Skin, Part 1” begins an exploration of creating realistic skin textures, a technique that can elevate portrait retouching. And in the “Down & Dirty Tricks” columns, you’ll find creative masking techniques with text and a fun project: creating your own pet caricature.

Columns and Regular Features

Beyond the features, this issue includes a range of columns designed to build your skills incrementally. “Beginners’ Workshop” shows how to create a convincing cast shadow, while “Effects Toolkit” explains how to paint realistic reflections in the eyes. “Designing in Photoshop” encourages you to design like the greats, and “Photoshop Q&A;” answers common user questions. You’ll also find “Product & Book Reviews” to keep you informed about the latest gear, and “Photoshop Tips” to boost your productivity. Scott Kelby’s editor’s note, “The Importance of Community,” reflects on the value of connection among creatives, a theme that resonates throughout the issue.

Who Will Benefit from This Issue

This issue is particularly well-suited for intermediate to advanced Photoshop users who want to deepen their technical skills and explore creative applications. Photographers will find actionable retouching and compositing techniques, while graphic designers and digital artists will appreciate the focus on color, masking, and realistic effects. Beginners can also benefit from the step-by-step workshops, though some articles assume a basic familiarity with Photoshop’s interface. If you’re looking for a single issue that combines inspiration with practical, real-world projects, this August 2020 edition delivers.

Add this issue to your digital library and keep these techniques within reach whenever you’re working on your next project.