In today's digital age, proficiency in Photoshop is a valuable skill that can benefit both personal and professional pursuits. Whether you are an aspiring graphic designer, a social media manager, or simply someone who enjoys photography, Photoshop can help you enhance your creativity and elevate your visual storytelling. While traditional classroom-based courses are still an option, online learning has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and flexibility. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best live online Photoshop classes.
Below, we will explore some of the top options for online Photoshop classes and why learning this software is beneficial for both personal and professional growth.
The 10 Best Online Photoshop Classes
- NYIM Training—Photoshop Bootcamp (Live Online)
- Lumenbrite— Photoshop Training: Bootcamp (Live Online)
- Noble Desktop—Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp (Live Online)
- Noble Desktop— Photoshop in a Day (Live Online)
- Accelerate Computer Training— Photoshop Beginning: Master the Essentials (Live Online)
- Computer Training Source, Inc.—Photoshop Part 1 (Live Online)
- Manhattan Edit Workshop—Adobe Photoshop Level I (Live Online)
- Expert Computer Lessons—Digital Imaging with Photoshop (Live Online)
- LinkedIn Learning—Photoshop 2022 Essential Training (On-Demand)
- Skillshare—Adobe Photoshop Essentials Training Course (On-Demand)
#1: NYIM Training—Photoshop Bootcamp (Live Online)
NYIM Training offers an in-person and virtual Photoshop Bootcamp. The bootcamp trains students on how to use Photoshop to retouch and color-correct photos, combine images, prepare graphics for print/web, and much more. Major topics include:
- Basics of Photoshop
- Retouching and color correction
- Combining images
- Preparing graphics for print/web
- Using masks, tools, and channels
- Creating vector drawings
- Automating image tasks
- Producing consistent color for print
- Creating artistic interpretations of pictures using filters
- Tackling advanced corrections of digital photos
Key Information
This course costs $975 per person and lasts for three days (weekday or weekend) or six evenings. Sessions are held from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm EST, or 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm EST if attending on evenings. Free retakes and flexible rescheduling options are offered.
Basic familiarity with Photoshop before attending this course is encouraged but not required. More experienced users can also attend since the course covers plenty of automation tips and tricks to increase the efficiency of their workflow.
More Details
Outside of 18 hours of instruction, participants may retake the course for free within one year. They will also receive a certificate of completion and a complimentary copy of a Photoshop training workbook.
This class has received relatively positive feedback from students who have completed it. Beginners felt like the material was easy to understand. One reviewer stated, “I took the beginner's class, and this one surpassed everything I learned before.” Students also appreciated hearing about the instructor’s professional experience with Photoshop, saying it helped them solidify the material and get excited about professional applications of the tool.
#2: Lumenbrite—Photoshop Training: Bootcamp (Live Online)
Lumenbrite offers a Photoshop Training Bootcamp to beginner students. The primary goal of this bootcamp is to help students learn to work efficiently in Photoshop while becoming proficient in the program’s most commonly used tools. At the beginning of the class, students will orient themselves to the workspace and learn industry tips for time management. Early modules also cover masks, layers, special effects, and typography.
In the latter half of the course, students move into more advanced image retouching techniques, like using Smart Objects for non-destructive edits and how to create custom brushes. The class also covers the program’s animation and video editing features and will teach students the proper file storage and sharing methods.
Key Information
This class costs $1,595. Financial aid is not available, but there is a discount when multiple students from a single organization are enrolling in the same class. This class takes four days to complete. The sessions are held in Central time from either 9 am to 4 pm or 11 am to 6 pm. Basic computer skills (Windows or Mac) are all that’s required to attend.
More Details
In addition to the live instruction, students who complete this course also receive an Adobe Photoshop Course Certificate. It is also designed to help students prepare for the Adobe Certified Professional credential. Video recordings of each session are available for download at the end of the course, so students can access the material and refresh their training whenever they’d like.
Previous attendees have provided mostly favorable feedback about the course. Many students report that the instructor is very good at explaining and keeping them interested, which is excellent for beginners who may be overwhelmed with new information. Students felt that they learned a lot in such a short amount of time. One reviewer stated, “I highly recommend the courses for either learning a new skill or brushing up on ones you think you already know!”
#3: Noble Desktop—Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp (Live Online)
Noble Desktop’s Adobe Photoshop Bootcampis another live online option for students to consider.Through a series of hands-on exercises, students in this bootcamp will learn both photo editing and graphic creation techniques. Some units focus on enhancing images by adjusting things like contrast, color saturation, and brightness. Students will also learn to make non-destructive edits by using adjustment layers.
The latter half of the course focuses on more advanced Photoshop skills. Some of these include sharpening photos and removing backgrounds using layer masking techniques. Participants will also practice using Photoshop’s visual effects tools. Some of these projects will cover blending mode, filters, and shadows.
Key Information
This course costs $975 per person, with the full amount being due before class begins. As one of Noble’s shorter classes, financial aid is not available. However, students can take this curriculum as part of a comprehensive certificate to get the most savings. The class takes three days to complete. Full-time sessions are held on three consecutive weekdays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm EST, while the part-time version takes place on weekday evenings from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm EST.
More Details
All of Noble’s classes include a free retake within one year of the original course, which is beneficial for those who would like additional practice to solidify more challenging concepts. Students are also given supplemental material that they can refer back to after the course is completed.
Students who have attended this course report that their Instructor had a lot of professional knowledge and was patient with students who came from various backgrounds and skill levels. One reviewer stated that the class was “very good for learning with no experience or for filling in the gaps from self-teaching.”
#4: Noble Desktop— Photoshop in a Day (Live Online)
There is also a Photoshop in a Day class available from Noble Desktop. This class is ideal for those who want to get the basics down quickly or who don’t need to learn Photoshop’s more advanced tools. By the end of the course, students will know how to independently navigate Photoshop’s essential functions, like making selections, removing elements from images, and appropriate file saving practices.
The information covered in this course includes combining photos with text and other graphics and creating graphics for social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Students will also learn to enhance their photos by adjusting colors, contrast, and brightness. The course also covers basic photo retouching skills, like straightening and cropping.
Key Information
As the name of the class implies, this is a single-day class that lasts for six hours. The tuition is $395 and is due in full before the class starts. This price includes expert instruction, small class sizes, and a digital completion certificate. This can be uploaded to a LinkedIn profile or added to a professional design portfolio when students are ready to enter the job market.
More Details
Students who attend this program will receive a proprietary workbook to take with them after the class ends. This way, they can refer back to the material as they continue their education or work on professional projects. Students also have the option to retake the class for free within one year.
Previous attendees of this class have many positive things to say about both the instructors and the curriculum. Many students appreciated how the work could be applied to real-life scenarios, so they understood how the material would help them succeed in a professional setting. Instructors and other staff members are often described as helpful, friendly, and responsive. One student reported that “the industry tips we got were so valuable because it’s knowledge you can’t just Google.” Students also appreciated the constructive feedback they received on their projects.
#5: Accelerate Computer Training—Photoshop Beginning: Master the Essentials (Live Online)
Accelerate Computer Training provides a class called Photoshop Beginning: Master the Essentials. This class focuses on the most essential and commonly used Photoshop tools. Students start the program by becoming familiar with the interface and customizing the workspace to suit their needs. Students will also learn about different file types and how to enhance them for print and digital purposes.
Some of the earlier lessons cover Adobe Bridge, which assists users with file storage and management. The course progresses into working with cropping, layers, blending, and selection tools. The last section of the program covers retouching techniques and tools, like the Pattern Stamp, Red Eye, and the Liquify filter.
Key Information
This course is priced at $995 per person and lasts for three days. Sessions are held from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm PST, with a lunch break in the afternoon. The only requirement to attend this class is basic computer skills, but no previous design or Photoshop experience is necessary. While there is no financial aid available, the school does accept payment plans through PayPal. Students also receive a discount if they register for multiple courses at Accelerate.
More Details
Students can retake this course for free as many times as they’d like for an entire year. It is taught by an Adobe Certified Instructor, so students are sure to receive accurate and up-to-date information. According to former students, they feel their training was “a complete success.” Many students shared that they would recommend the training to other people, and they feel that the information was immediately applicable to their professional goals.
#6: Computer Training Source, Inc.—Photoshop Part 1 (Live Online)
Computer Training Source, Inc. (CST) has a class called Photoshop Part 1 available to online students. This program focuses on basic editing skills, primarily in the realm of photography. CST also has a Photoshop class that covers animation and the creation of graphics, but this class is a prerequisite for learning those other skills.
In this course, students will learn to identify the proper tools for certain photographic edits. They will also become familiar with the Photoshop workspace and the interface of Adobe Bridge as well. Later sections of the class discuss selection tools, layers, and preparation of images for both print and web upload.
Key Information
This is a one-day training program that costs $649 per person. The class lasts from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm CST. While financial aid or scholarships aren’t offered, there are occasional discounts offered for the course. The class is described as beginner-friendly, but students should be aware that a basic understanding of digital photography is encouraged. The course website recommends that students should have previously used a digital camera and have downloaded images onto their computer or another device. There is also a thorough list of specific system requirements on the website.
More Details
This course is designed to prepare students for their Adobe Visual Communications using Photoshop certification. The course website itself does not list any additional materials, but some reviewers do point out that the instructor provides students with additional resources to help them outside of class.
Former students of this class describe the instructor as knowledgeable and able to answer all questions posed by the students. One reviewer shared that they “especially liked how [the instructor] leveraged client work and real-world examples” to show how they use Photoshop in the professional sphere. Other reviews mention appreciating the small class sizes and feeling like the instruction was easy to follow.
#7: Manhattan Edit Workshop—Adobe Photoshop Level I (Live Online)
Manhattan Edit Workshop’s Adobe Photoshop Level I class is another option for those curious about online Photoshop training. This introductory program is well-suited for beginners to Photoshop or those with some experience who feel they need a refresher on particular concepts and tools. The course begins with a discussion of the workspace and commonly used tools. Next, students will learn the fundamentals of photo correction, retouching, and restoration. These units also cover layers, channels, and masking.
From here, students will complete additional hands-on assignments in typographic design and participate in vector drawing activities. The course ends with a unit on saving files. These lessons teach students the differences between various file types, as well as how to decide which file type is most appropriate for their project.
Key Information
Tuition for this class is $1,095 per person. The course is held over two consecutive days from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm EST. It is a beginner-friendly class that does not require any previous Photoshop experience. However, prospective students should be aware that this class is specifically for Mac users, since a prerequisite is “basic knowledge of Mac OS.”
More Details
Manhattan Edit Workshop prioritizes small class sizes so students are assured of receiving individual support and attention. They also offer students a 15% discount if they attend both Photoshop Level I and Level II classes within 30 days. Additionally, each student is given their own workstation for the duration of the program.
Classes held at Manhattan Edit Workshop have primarily positive reviews from former students. Many testimonials praise the instructors in particular, with one reviewer stating that the teachers are the school’s greatest asset. The courses are described as being clear and fun, and many students appreciated being able to learn in small classes. As one reviewer stated, “I didn’t feel overwhelmed by the information and took away a lot of useful tips that I will utilize in my professional career.
#8: Expert Computer Lessons—Digital Imaging with Photoshop (Live Online)
Expert Computer Lessons provides a live online Digital Imaging with Photoshop class to students. This course helps students learn through exercises, discussions about design theory, and feedback on their work to improve future projects. It is described as being designed to “demystify Photoshop for the beginning graphic artist.”
Some of the goals for students who complete the course include understanding the differences between vector and raster graphics, understanding the characteristics of different image modes, and determining the appropriate file types and image resolution for certain projects. Students will also learn more about working with multiple layers and how to enhance their images with filters, paint, and other effects.
Key Information
This is a beginner-friendly course that does not require any previous Photoshop or graphic design experience. It costs $495 per person. The course takes eight weeks to complete, with sessions being held every Thursday evening from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm EST.
More Details
Students who have attended this course have very positive things to say, primarily about David, the instructor and owner of the business. One reviewer said, “David is a great teacher because he has the ability to break everything down into logical steps that I can understand.” He is described as responsive, reliable, and fun. Another student shared that this class was “much easier than hunting around for tutorials that don’t address your specific questions.” Overall, this program is highly recommended.
#9: LinkedIn Learning—Photoshop 2022 Essential Training (On-Demand)
There is a Photoshop 2022 Essential Training class available through LinkedIn Learning. This course’s primary goal is to teach students how to maximize efficiency when using Photoshop by “filtering out the noise,” as the instructor describes. Some of the lessons include how to customize the interface so your most preferred tools can be easily accessed and learning which tools are most appropriate for certain tasks.
The first portion of the class covers navigating the interface before moving into common tasks like making selections, layering, and masking. The curriculum then progresses to more advanced tasks. Some of these include typefaces and animation. The course also covers proper file storage and best practices for exporting single images or entire batches.
Key Information
Students who want to explore more of LinkedIn’s classes can subscribe to the platform for $39.99/month, which includes a free 30-day trial. You can also purchase this one class for $39.99. LinkedIn also encourages students to explore getting their subscription covered by their employers since many courses can be used for professional development purposes.
This class is made up of nine hours of videos. It is described as beginner-friendly, but many experienced users found the class helpful as well. It’s common for self-taught users to not know many of Photoshop’s customization options and other various shortcuts.
More Details
Anyone who completes this class receives a certificate of completion to share on their resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and personal portfolios. Students will also access 19 short quizzes during the course to ensure they understand the information.
According to other students who have completed this class, the instructor is easy to understand, making it a great choice for beginners in Photoshop. More experienced users also shared that they enjoyed the class. It reportedly helped enhance their overall understanding of some of the program’s more advanced features.
#10: Skillshare—Adobe Photoshop Essentials Training Course (On-Demand)
There is an Adobe Photoshop Essentials Training Course available through Skillshare. Despite being an on-demand course, this program is designed to be highly interactive. There are multiple hands-on assignments throughout the class that students complete while following along with the instructor.
This class exposes students to today’s popular design trends. The course also covers essential Photoshop skills like beauty retouching, designing interactive typefaces, and masking. More advanced techniques include image distortion and manipulation.
Key Information
This ten-hour class is ideal for those who are completely new to Photoshop. To access the material, students must purchase a subscription to the Skillshare platform. A membership costs $32/month and includes a 30-day free trial at the beginning. While there are no scholarships available, college students can receive 50% off their subscription for a year when they provide a valid university email address.
More Details
The exercises and assignments that students complete throughout the course can be downloaded and added to their portfolios. According to recent reviews, the course exceeded the expectations of most participants. The instructor, in particular, received high praise, with many students reporting they would like to take more of his classes in the future. He is described as entertaining and engaging. Many reviewers also shared that they were surprised at how much they learned in such a short amount of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of online Photoshop classes?
Live online Photoshop classes are conducted in real time with a live instructor and a group of students. These classes are typically scheduled at specific times and dates and require you to be available during the class session. You can ask questions and interact with the instructor and other students during the class. Live online classes allow for a more interactive and engaging learning experience and can be a good option if you prefer to learn in a structured environment.
On the other hand, on-demand Photoshop classes are pre-recorded classes that you can access and watch at any time. You can work at your own pace and schedule, pausing and replaying the content as needed. On-demand classes are more flexible and convenient, as you can fit them into your schedule whenever you have free time.
What will I need for an online Photoshop class?
To attend an online class, you’ll obviously need a computer with internet access. Most courses also require students to have a webcam and microphone to participate, but this can vary. Additionally, Photoshop requires certain specifications to run and store files properly, so you’ll want to check the technical requirements listed on Adobe’s website to ensure your device will work.
You’ll also need an Adobe subscription. Although Photoshop used to be available for a one-time fee, Adobe has used a subscription model since 2012. This allows Adobe to more quickly roll out updates to the program. There are a few different subscription plans that contain Photoshop, and they range from $19.99/month to $54.99/month. Each one comes with a free seven-day trial and 1TB of cloud storage.
Can I learn Photoshop online for free?
On the one hand, learning Photoshop online for free seems like a no-brainer. There are countless tutorials, videos, and forums available with just a quick Google search. Plus, the convenience of being able to learn at your own pace and on your own time is a major selling point.
However, there are some downsides to this method to consider. First of all, the quality of the tutorials can vary greatly. Some may be outdated or incomplete, while others may be poorly explained or difficult to follow. Additionally, without the structure and guidance of a formal course, it can be easy to get sidetracked or overwhelmed.
Learning some Photoshop basics online for free is certainly possible and even preferable in some cases. Free tutorials can be a great way to get a sense of what the program can do and decide whether you want to invest in more advanced training. However, structured classes are often the best way for learners to receive accurate information and guided support as they navigate this powerful but complex program.
Is it better to learn Photoshop in a live or self-paced class?
Live online classes offer the benefit of real-time interaction with an instructor, as well as the opportunity to ask questions and receive immediate feedback on assignments. This can be especially useful for beginners who are just starting to navigate the complex world of Photoshop. Additionally, live online classes often offer a structured curriculum that can help students stay on track and progress at a steady pace.
However, live online classes also come with some drawbacks. They can be more expensive than self-paced programs and usually require attendance on a set schedule that may not be possible for all students. Moreover, the fast-paced nature of live classes may not be suitable for all learning styles.
Self-paced programs offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. This can be ideal for those with busy lives or who want to learn Photoshop on their own time. Self-paced programs are generally more affordable than live online classes and may offer a wider range of topics and tutorials. This allows students to tailor their education to their needs and interests, rather than following a predetermined curriculum.
Self-paced programs require a high level of self-motivation and discipline, as students must take the initiative to stay on track and complete assignments. Students may also miss out on the benefits of real-time interaction and feedback from an instructor, as well as potential networking opportunities with other students.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to take a live online class or a self-paced program depends on individual learning styles, schedules, and preferences. Both options offer their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and it is up to each student to determine which option will best suit their needs.