Adobe Photoshop is a powerful raster-based image editing software used for photo retouching, graphic design, digital art, and animation. It features a layer-based editing system for non-destructive work, numerous tools for selections and modifications, and advanced features like AI-powered tools for tasks such as object removal and subject selection. Photoshop is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud and is a standard industry tool for professionals in many creative fields.
Core functions and features
Image and graphic editing: Photoshop allows for the editing of raster (pixel-based) images, including cropping, resizing, and retouching.
Layer-based editing: A key feature is the use of layers, which enables users to work on different elements of an image independently without altering the original pixels.
Advanced selections: Tools like “Select Subject” and other enhanced selection features use AI to make it fast and easy to select complex subjects like hair, clothing, and facial features with a single click.
AI-powered tools: Adobe’s AI, called Adobe Sensei, powers many features, including the “Remove Tool” for seamlessly removing objects and “Generative Fill” for adding or replacing parts of an image with AI-generated content.
Creative effects and filters: A wide array of filters and effects can be applied to change the appearance of an image.
Digital art and animation: It is used for digital painting, creating graphics, and even for creating frame-based animations.
Workspace and interface
Main components: The workspace consists of the canvas (where the image is displayed), a toolbar with all the tools, and various panels for controlling functions.
Menu and options bars: The menu bar at the top contains commands, while the options bar below it shows settings for the currently selected tool.
Customizable layout: Users can customize the layout of panels and save different workspace configurations, such as the “Essentials” preset.
Use cases and workflow
Photo editing: Professionals use it for both detailed, targeted adjustments and for batch processing large numbers of images using “Actions”.
Graphic design: It is used to create a wide variety of graphics for web and print.
Compositing: It allows users to combine multiple images seamlessly by using tools for masking, blending, and adjusting color and light to make elements look realistic together.
