The Glitterguru on Photoshop: From Concept to Cool (VOICES)

It's clear that author Troche-Stapp knows her stuff. In addition to commanding five-figure fees for her work as a digital imager, she is a contributing editor for PEI (Photo Electronic Imaging) magazine, and, in her role as an advice columnist, she is familiar with the real world problems people face. Her book discusses how to work with clients on a concept, prep for the photo shoot, create the image, and deliver the finished work in a professional manner and the proper format. The real nitty-gritty of being a professional photographer/digital imager is covered here, from interviewing models and creating a Web site for your business, to estimating your fee.

Retouching tips include performing digital "cosmetic surgery" (like slimming down a thigh and adding voluminous hair) and using Photoshops adjustment layers, channels, and filters to achieve these affects. There's also lots of advice on seamlessly compositing backgrounds and props into images. The book ends with three case studies: a cover shoot for PEI; an image created to sell as stock; and a "portrait" of Troche-Stapps husband as a computer-chip-brained borg. Except for the above-mentioned tips, this is not a Photoshop how-to manual. Its more of a supportive outline on how to earn a living from your Photoshop creations and it may be just be the pat on the behind your business needs. --Angelynn Grant

Product Description

Suzette Troche-Stapp, "the glitterguru", one of the most successful and sought-after photographers/digital artists today, has written the book she wishes had existed when she started working professionally. Here, she divulges her secrets culled from years of producing commercial digital art, from how to think about images, setting up images at photo shoots, retouching secrets, to composing an entire business package. She covers the entire process of image creation and development from start to finish (from concept to cool!). Reading this book is like shadowing Suzette throughout her career -- both from an art and business perspective. If you're on a professional path with Photoshop -- whether just starting or already on your way -- this book will inspire and educate you. The book is geared toward both photographers and digital artists and is chock-full of all the gems Suzette has learned along the way. Suzette's spunk combined with the eye-catching images and design make this book as fun and visually appealing as it is practical. Check out the sample material and you'll get the idea. glittergure on Photoshop: From Concept to Cool was the Winner of the Designer's Bookshelf award for Most Exciting New Photoshop Book