2012 was a big year for Photoshop. In April, Adobe released Photoshop CS6 and launched the Creative Cloud, and more recently announced the Photoshop 13.1 update. During that time, our authors produced some amazing Photoshop conent. In this article, we wanted to take a look at some of our favorite Psdtuts+ tutorials from 2012. Let”s take a look!
Editor”s note: This articles includes both standard and premium content.
January
Create a Pimped Out Truck Using Photoshop and Point and Shoot Photos
Making modifications to your car or truck in Photoshop can be a lot of fun. In this tutorial we will demonstrate how to create a pimped out truck modification using photos taken with a simple point and shoot camera, with no advanced lighting setup.
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Create an Elephant Sundae Using Photo Manipulation Techniques
Photoshop is great at seamlessly combing photos to create an entirely new scene. In this tutorial we will create an elephant sundae using several stock photos.
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Create a Rusty and Worn Metallic Textured Skull Using 3D Renders
Photoshop is a fantastic tool to help 3D artists save time and improve the look of their renders. In this tutorial we will demonstrate how to combine ZBrush materials and lighting render passes to create a stunning metallic textured skull.
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February
Create a Mini Planet Using Photoshop”s 3D Capabilities
When most people think about Photoshop, they probably don”t think about 3D. What most people don”t realize, however, is that Photoshop Extended includes some powerful tools to help you render your artwork in 3D. In this tutorial we will demonstrate how to create a mini planet using Photoshop”s 3D capabilities.
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Create a Cocktail Blueprint Using Actions in Photoshop
Photoshop actions are excellent tools for speeding up your workflow. In this tutorial, Diego Sanchez will use Photoshop actions to create a cocktail blueprint from scratch.
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Create a Coffee Cake Photo Manipulation
In this tutorial we will demonstrate how to take pieces from multiple photos and seamlessly blend them into a "coffee cake" photo manipulation. This tutorial will also explore unique ways to work with paths and smart objects.
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Integrate a 3D Render Into a Macro Photograph Using Photoshop
In this tutorial, we will explain how to integrate a rendered 3D model into a photograph to create a macro photography effect.
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March
Create a Clean Twitter App Interface in Photoshop
In this tutorial we will create a clean Twitter app interface in Photoshop using layer styles and basic vector shapes.
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Create a Baseball-Inspired Text Effect in Photoshop
Applying texture to a text effect can be a lot of fun. In this tutorial we will explain how to create a baseball-inspired text effect using layer styles, patterns, and brushes.
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Create a One-Page Retro Web Design Layout in Photoshop
In this tutorial we will explain how to create a one-page retro web design using Adobe Photoshop. While most of the design is created in Photoshop, we will also use Illustrator to create various shapes and elements.
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Create a Walking City With Photoshop
Taking your own photos and combining them into an entirely new composition can be quite satisfying. In this tutorial, Josh Dykgraaf will show you how to create a walking city using a combination of photos that were taken exclusively for this project, as well as a few stock photos.
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Quick Tip: Create a Royal Gold Text Effect in Photoshop Using Layer Styles
In this quick tutorial we will show you how to create a royal gold text effect using layer styles in Photoshop.
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April
Use Photoshop CS6 to Create a Micro Machines Inspired Scene
Photoshop CS6 is packed with new features and effects that you can use in your work. In this tutorial we will utilize Photoshop”s new 3D capabilities as well as its new content aware features to create a Micro Machines inspired composition.
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Create Stunning “Tron Legacy” Fan Art in Photoshop
Disney”s "Tron Legacy" featured some stunning special effects. In this tutorial, Sheridan Johns will explain how to achieve similar results using digital painting, composition, and lighting effect techniques.
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Create a Light Bulb Inspired Text Effect in Photoshop
Layer styles are a powerful and time saving feature that can help you apply amazing effects to your designs. In this tutorial we will use layer styles to create a light bulb inspired text effect in Photoshop.
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Use New Features in Photoshop CS6 to Create an Administrator Dashboard Interface
Photoshop CS6 is packed with new features that will help you create better interface designs. In this tutorial we will utilize Photoshop”s new vector editing and stroke capabilities to create an administrator dashboard interface. We will also take advantage of Photoshop”s new snap to pixel grid feature to help create crisp and clean web graphics.
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Create a Snowy Landscape From Desert Photography in Photoshop
Photoshop is a great tool because it allows us to be creative and produce imagery that would be impossible to create otherwise. In this tutorial, Tony Aubé will create a snowy landscape from desert photography and photos of sand.
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Quick Tip: Create a Steel Text Effect in Photoshop
In this quick tip tutorial we will explain how to create a steel text effect using layer styles in Photoshop.
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Create a Cute and Dark Fantasy Illustration in Photoshop
While thinking up a strong concept is often one of the biggest challenges that a designer will face during the creative process, executing that concept can be equally, if not more challenging. In this tutorial, Liran Szeiman will explain how to create a cute, but dark, fantasy illustration in Photoshop using digital painting techniques.
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May
How to Create Masks of Transparent Elements in Photoshop
Selections are an essential part of any photo editing workflow, but often, selections aren”t as straight-forward as they might seem. In this tutorial we will explain how to make a selection of a glass that includes transparent elements.
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Create an Amplifier Interface From Scratch in Photoshop
In this tutorial we will explain how to create an amplifier interface using simple shapes and layer styles.
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Create a Tasty 3D Typographic Illustration
If you”ve got a sweet tooth, then we”ve got a mouth-watering tutorial for you. In this tutorial, Mark Mayers will show you how Photoshop CS6 Extended”s new 3D tools can be utilized to create a typographic illustration that includes lots of sugary treats.
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Quick Tip: Create a Metallic Copper Text Effect Using Layer Styles in Photoshop
In this tutorial we will explain how to create a metallic copper text effect using layer styles in Photoshop.
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How to Draw a Leica Camera in Photoshop
Leica is considered one of the most prestigious camera brands. In this tutorial, we will draw one of the most notable Leica cameras in Photoshop, the Leica M1.
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June
Quick Tip: Create a Cookie Text Effect in Photoshop
In this quick tip tutorial we will explain how to create a cookie text effect using layer styles and textures in Photoshop.
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Create a Parallax Shift Effect Using Timeline and 3D Features of Photoshop CS6
Photoshop CS6 includes several new features that you can use to create 3D and video effects. In this tutorial, Stephen Petrany will combine these new tools to simulate 3D depth in a 2D photograph using the new 3D and video timeline features available in Photoshop CS6 Extended.
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Create a Diablo III Inspired Text Effect in Photoshop
If you”re a big fan of playing video games, then you are probably aware of the release of Diablo III. The Diablo franchise has been a popular video game title for over a decade. In this tutorial, we will explain how to create a Diablo-inspired text effect in Photoshop.
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July
Create Stunning "Iron Man" Fan Art From Scratch in Photoshop
In this tutorial, Sheridan Johns we will explain how to create stunning "Iron Man" fan art in Photoshop using digital painting techniques. This tutorial will begin as a sketch and then show how to slowly build up your artwork to create realistic metallic objects. We will then incorporate some photographic elements such as smoke and sparks to enhance the overall realism of the piece.
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Quick Tip: Create a Plastic Switch in Photoshop
In this quick tip tutorial we will explain how to create a plastic switch in Photoshop that you can use in your interface designs.
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The Making of “Everything Dies”
This tutorial by Liran Szeiman is an interpretation of the song "Everything Dies" by Type O Negative and will explain how to create a dark and emotional digital painting in Photoshop.
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Create an Evil Queen in Photoshop
In this tutorial we will create the Evil Queen from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves using digital painting techniques in Photoshop.
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Quick Tip: Create a Glass Text Effect in Photoshop Using Layer Styles
In this quick tip tutorial we will show you how to create a glass text effect using layer styles in Photoshop.
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Create a 3D Soda Can Using Actions
Actions are a powerful tool in Photoshop. They can be used to automate all sorts of tasks. In this tutorial we will explain how to use actions to create a 3D soda can.
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Create a Realistic Chrome Hood Ornament in Photoshop CS6
Photoshop CS6 is packed with new and powerful features. In this tutorial, Stephen Petrany will explore some of Photoshop CS6 Extended”s enhanced 3D features by showing how to create a realistic 3D hood ornament.
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Create a Retro Chrome Automobile Emblem in Photoshop
By combining certain fonts and styles, you can create graphics reminiscent of the automobile emblems of the 1950′s, also known as Brightwork. In this tutorial we will show you how to create a reflective, retro chrome emblem using Photoshop layer styles and a few selection tricks.
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August
Quick Tip: Create a Sports-Themed Text Effect in Photoshop Using Layer Styles
In this quick tutorial we will show you how to create sports-themed text effect using layer styles in Photoshop.
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Quick Tip: Create a Candy Flavored Text Effect in Photoshop
In this quick tip tutorial we will explain how to create a candy cane-style text effect in Photoshop.
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Create an Emotional, Molten, Shattered Statue in Photoshop
Photo composites often require several Photoshop tools and techniques to achieve a desired effect. In this tutorial by author Mario Sánchez Nevado, we will combine several photos to create a statue from a photo of a model. We will then explain how modify the statue to create cracks, and molten rock using layer masks, adjustments, and several blending and painting techniques.
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Create a Horror Movie-Themed Photo Composition in Photoshop
Creating a horror movie-themed photo composition in Photoshop can be a lot of fun. Choosing the right photos is an important step in the process, but it is also important to blend those photos together in a realistic and believable way. In this tutorial we will show you how to do this using the appropriate light balance, use of midtones, depth of field, blending, and more.
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September
Design a Futuristic Extra Terrestrial Seaplane in Photoshop
Among the most challenging and potentially useful skills an artist can have is the ability to design entirely new characters, environments and vehicles. Master these skills, and the doors open not only to your own creative expression, but to potential employment in the video game, film and publishing industries. In this tutorial, Alex Ries, we will walk through the design and painting of an extra terrestrial seaplane in Photoshop. This requires research into the familiar elements of real-world aircraft, and combining those elements into an original form that looks functional and familiar, yet clearly non-human.
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Create a Cute and Scary Children”s Illustration in Photoshop
In this tutorial, we will explain how to create a cute and scary children”s illustration in Photoshop.
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Create a 3D, Chrome, Logo Animation With Sound FX Using Photoshop CS6 Extended
Photoshop has become a multi-purpose tool that can create some complex animations without the need to purchase additional software. In this tutorial, we will show you how to create and composite a 3D animation with sound and lighting effects. We will also cover techniques on how to optimize your rendering time.
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October
Quick Tip: Create a Crisp Metallic Text Effect in Photoshop
In this quick tip tutorial, we will explain how to create a crisp, metallic text effect using just a couple of layer styles in Photoshop.
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Create a “Two-Faced” Digital Painting in Photoshop
Creating a nice character painting in Photoshop can be a difficult but rewarding task. In this tutorial, we will explain how to create a classic Batman villain in Photoshop.
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Create a Technical Illustration for a Futuristic Military Satellite
In this tutorial, Alex Ries will show you how to create a near-future space fighter without referencing these earlier science fiction designs. Instead, he will show you how to create a more realistic concept referencing the real world.
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Draw a Retro Gameboy From Scratch in Photoshop
Attempting to replicate real life objects in Photoshop is great practice. In this tutorial we will explain how to create a realistic, retro Gameboy device using Photoshop”s powerful feature set.
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Create a Stitched Denim Text Effect in Photoshop
In this tutorial, we will explain how to combine Photoshop filters, brushes, and vector shapes to create a stitched denim text effect using Photoshop CS6.
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November
Create a Robotic Motorcycle God Using Motorcycle Parts
Sometimes all you need to create a stunning piece of Photoshop art is a camera, some Photoshop know how, and some creativity. In this tutorial, Joshua Dykgraaf will explain how to create a robotic motorcycle god using photos taken of motorcycle parts.
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Create a Futuristic Combat Robot in Photoshop
Robots are a staple of the science fiction media landscape. Concept artists working in this field, whether it be through video games, publishing, or film are well served with a number of robotic designs in their portfolios. In this tutorial, Alex Ries will explain how to illustrate a near-future combat robot in Photoshop.
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How to Paint a Furry Cartoon Character in Photoshop
In this tutorial, we will explain how to create a furry cartoon character in Photoshop.
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Create a Knitted Argyle Text Effect Using Filter Forge and Photoshop
Photoshop plugins are great tools to help you save time and improve the quality of your work. In this tutorial, we will use Filter Forge to help create a knitted argyle text effect in Photoshop that you can use in your holiday illustrations.
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Create a Magazine Mockup Using InDesign and Photoshop
Designers often use several apps to create their work. What is great about Adobe products is that you can easily switch between them to perform various tasks. In this tutorial, we will show you how to design a magazine layout using Adobe InDesign. We will then show you how to create a realistic and reusable magazine mockup of that design in Photoshop that you can present to your clients.
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Create an Autumn-Themed 3D Text Effect With Photoshop CS6 Extended
Adobe Photoshop CS6 Extended is packed with an all-new 3D interface and tons of new features. In this tutorial, we will explain how to use those new features to create an autumn-themed 3D text effect.
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December
Create Fan Art for Mortal Kombat”s "Liu Kang" in Photoshop
Liu Kang is one of the most iconic characters from the world of Mortal Kombat. In this tutorial, George Patsouras will discuss how to paint a Bruce Lee-inspired Liu Kang in Photoshop. Since this will deal with portrait painting, you can use these techniques to recreate the Liu Kang painting, or you can come up with something entirely on your own.
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Create a Gingerbread Cookie Scene Using Smart Objects
In this tutorial, Stephen Petrany will explain how to build a holiday gingerbread cookie illustration using copies of a single Smart Object. This technique will allow us to quickly update the shape of our cookie with very little effort in order to make multiple cookies for a more complex final scene.
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Sessions
You might also want to take a look at some of the excellent series that we published in 2012.
Shortcuts on Psdtuts
In this series, Martin Perhiniak will explain some time-saving tips to help you work more efficiently with Adobe Photoshop.
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Intro to Photoshop Layer Styles
Photoshop layer styles are a popular way to add effects, such as drop shadows and strokes, to layers in a non-destructive way. In this Session, we”ll show you how to unlock their potential!
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Introduction to Photoshop CS6
Photoshop CS6 has finally arrived. It has come packed with new features and tweaks that will significantly improve your workflow and enhance your tool set. In this series we will take a look at some of Photoshop CS6″s new features and show you how they work.
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