When I first started learning Adobe Photoshop tools, I was taken aback by how many tools, layers, and shortcuts there were to add to a design element. I have since learned how to use Photoshop and now know how important it is to understand all of its features.
Why It Matters
In any project, stakeholders are the people who will interact with your design or benefit from the end result. Two major stakeholders shaped my design: Alexis Alvarez, a first-generation college student from Orange Cove, California, and Emma Brooks, a transfer student at Oklahoma City Community College studying biology.
For Alexis, who values family and hard work, it was important that the design was both clear and practical. She’s focused on proving herself through education, so my design had to communicate in a way that made sense and didn’t distract her from her busy schedule. She interacts with her community often, so visuals had to feel passionate and inviting.
Alexis’ direct mail mock-up.
Emma, on the other hand, is driven by her aspirations in healthcare and education. She’s motivated by career goals and is deeply involved in community volunteering. Emma’s design preferences leaned more towards thriving in her dream life. She needs to absorb information quickly, so I wanted her design to be bold.
Emma’s direct mail mock-up.
The influence of these two stakeholders guided my approach to the design, and I realized that understanding their needs and experiences was critical to crafting a project that could resonate with both.
Advice for Photoshop Beginners
- Use Layers Wisely. Name and organize your layers to avoid chaos in complex designs. Layers are key to maintaining a clean file structure.
- Be Open to Feedback. Outside input is invaluable, whether you’re designing for a class or project or just seeking advice. Diego’s and Emma’s perspectives helped shape my final product.
- Start with a Clear Plan. Having a rough idea about your project before you dive into Adobe can save you time and help you stay focused.
- Think About Your Audience—Whether your stakeholder is someone like Alexis, who balances family and school, or Emma, who values professionalism in her healthcare journey, your designs should always cater to their needs.
Photoshop isn’t just about creating pretty designs; it’s a tool for communication. When you use it with purpose and keep your stakeholders in mind, your work becomes more than just a visual project—a solution serving real people. Through my designs for Alexis and Emma, I learned how critical it is to balance creativity with clarity and to think about the users who will engage with the design.
