Taking a NAPP

After much consideration I have joined NAPP, the National Association of Photoshop Professionals. This is something I had looked at after reading Scot Kelbys books on Photoshop but I was wary because so many of these 'clubs' are US based and therefore offer little to the international user.

After signing up for $100 I was given instant access to their website where I could view online tutorials in video and print format.
So far I have to say the tutorials are quick and easy to follow but cover a wide range of techniques including some complex issues. They are also a good additional source of updates on the latest version of Photoshop making it easier to choose when or if upgrading is worth the cost.

The user galleries range from simple to stunning and will quickly give you an idea of your level of expertise compared to others in the industry. (Be prepared to be amazed by some of the shots!)

Around two weeks after joining up I was surprised to receive a complete members pack in the post from the US. I say 'complete' because it included a printed mini guide to Photoshop CS4 techniques, a printed copy of Photoshop User (this is subsequently sent out in PDF format to non-US residents), a membership card, printed certificate, window sticker and some discount offers which are mainly for US residents.

On the website the offers improve a bit though, there are a huge number of offers and many are from online retailers offering stock images and Photoshop add-ons making them suitable for everyone. The Adobe offers and hardware offers from Apple or Wacom tend to be restricted to the US which is a shame but the content of the website still makes membership worthwhile.

There is also a forum and e-mail option for technical support which is a useful tool if you have problems with Photoshop. CS3 and CS4 (although CS4 has improved slightly) had a nasty bug when it came to printing so this is another option for support after the official Adobe website.

All in all I would recommend the NAPP as a good source of tools and resources from fellow Photoshoppers and professionals in the industry.

Photography Classes FULLY BOOKED

Our photography classes are now fully booked but if you are still interested please contact me as a number of people have already expressed an interest in joining another course later in the year.