We understand not everyone is ready to move on to Adobe CS4. So we will be offering CS3 until the Spring of 2009. In February 2009 we will be offering another Adobe Illustrator instructor led class.
Our last class was a great and I must admit really fun. I have been using Illustrator for about 5 years now and Bill showed me tricks I have never seen before. The class was primarily made up of a water heater manufacturer based in Montgomery, Alabama.
They do their own illustration for their marketing materials and their craftsman in the machine shop. Some of them were new to the company and others new to Adobe Illustrator. They needed to learn everything from interacting with 3D objects created in another program to the incredible arsenal Illustrator has to offer.
I think they all left here excited and blown away at the true power of Adobe Illustrator.
So in February we will be bring Bill Carberry back for another Illustrator class. I hope to see you in it.
We understand it may be a heavy upfront investment but it is an investment that pays off long term.
Stop by our site to learn more about our InDesign instructor led classes.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Adobe InDesign Instructor Led Training
Hello Everyone,
Although we have only held a few classes now, we have had great success with our instructor led classes. Most of our classes are based around the Adobe Classroom In A Book series. Our instructors begin with the first seven to ten chapters depending upon the experience of our students. From that point it is more of an instructor led custom course than a typical of the shelf course.
Why do we take this approach? Well, that is simple. We understand that our students may come from different backgrounds and have different needs. For instance, in a class we just finished our students were trying to migrate or convert their Quark files into InDesign files. This can be a daunting but not impossible task and that is where an instructor led class truly has an advantage over many online tutorials for Adobe programs like Photoshop and InDesign. Our custom approach allows each class to leave with all of the topics they need covered.
We understand it may be a heavy upfront investment but it is an investment that pays off long term.
Stop by our site to learn more about our InDesign instructor led classes.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
Although we have only held a few classes now, we have had great success with our instructor led classes. Most of our classes are based around the Adobe Classroom In A Book series. Our instructors begin with the first seven to ten chapters depending upon the experience of our students. From that point it is more of an instructor led custom course than a typical of the shelf course.
Why do we take this approach? Well, that is simple. We understand that our students may come from different backgrounds and have different needs. For instance, in a class we just finished our students were trying to migrate or convert their Quark files into InDesign files. This can be a daunting but not impossible task and that is where an instructor led class truly has an advantage over many online tutorials for Adobe programs like Photoshop and InDesign. Our custom approach allows each class to leave with all of the topics they need covered.
We understand it may be a heavy upfront investment but it is an investment that pays off long term.
Stop by our site to learn more about our InDesign instructor led classes.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
Friday, November 21, 2008
Announcing our Adobe Training for 2009
It is hard to believe 2009 is almost here. Since opening this past summer it has been a challenge when it come to which Adobe classes to teach. I know designers, developers, and photographers need instructor led training but reaching them has truly been difficult.
So, I hope by launching our Winter 2009 Adobe classes it will give corporations, businesses, and individuals looking for Adobe instructor led classes will find us in time to get scheduled or at least give us some feed on what they need.
So, here it is:
Adobe InDesign CS3 Class on January 12-13 2009
Adobe Introduction Photoshop CS3 Class on January 26-27
Adobe Illustrator CS3 Class on February 9-10
Adobe Acrobat 9 Class on March 16-17
Adobe InDesign CS3 on March 30-31
We have left plenty of dates open for both custom classes or special requests. If there is something you need in the way of an Adobe or Microsoft instructor led class, just let us know.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
So, I hope by launching our Winter 2009 Adobe classes it will give corporations, businesses, and individuals looking for Adobe instructor led classes will find us in time to get scheduled or at least give us some feed on what they need.
So, here it is:
Adobe InDesign CS3 Class on January 12-13 2009
Adobe Introduction Photoshop CS3 Class on January 26-27
Adobe Illustrator CS3 Class on February 9-10
Adobe Acrobat 9 Class on March 16-17
Adobe InDesign CS3 on March 30-31
We have left plenty of dates open for both custom classes or special requests. If there is something you need in the way of an Adobe or Microsoft instructor led class, just let us know.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
Friday, November 14, 2008
Bert Monroy: A truly great inspiration but there is more
I have been a NAPP for several years and along with producing great magazine, running a forum that discusses everything Adobe, they created the Creativity Tour. This tour truly brings incredible talent to large and small cities alike.
It was on tour when I first heard of Bert Monroy. Since then, I have had the priviledge to sit in several of Bert Monroy's workshops and seminars with his creativity tour. His video instruction is no doubt a useful tool and should be watched on a weekly basis. You can see them at http://revision3.com/pixelperfect/. The weekly Pixel Perfect webcast breakdowns the keys to a creating succesful realistic digital design.
He works hard to teach you the tools inside of Photoshop and Illustrator in order to set your own creativity free, not to copy his work.
Read more about Mr. Monroy on his site at: http://www.bertmonroy.com
Now that I have talked Bert up, the one difference between him and us. Hold the horses, there are many differences. He is a genius at creating photrealistic scenes and a true pioneer in the field. He has long hair, ok let's get back on track here. We are a training center where we bring instructors in for hands on training. The hands on training portion is truly key to learning how to do, well nearly everything.
It has been proven we learn with our brains but retain with our hands. At least the masses do anyway. We need to push buttons, turn knobs, and so on during the learning process. Another big difference between our instructor led classes is our flexibility. Bert and others teaching these large classes allow students to watch how it is done. At Millbrook Office Support and Training Center, you have the opportunity to create, play, and have fun. Our instructors take your industry and apply it to the class you are in.
I have not been specific here but it is important to understand how the filters work with in Adobe's Photoshop, Illustrater, and their many other complex programs... that's why it is so important to work along with the instructor, learning as you go, exploring, and having fun.
So by all means take part of the tours and the other lecture based classes but remember, they are not a substitute for an Adobe or Microsoft expert, leading an instructor led experience and letting you drive during the process.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
It was on tour when I first heard of Bert Monroy. Since then, I have had the priviledge to sit in several of Bert Monroy's workshops and seminars with his creativity tour. His video instruction is no doubt a useful tool and should be watched on a weekly basis. You can see them at http://revision3.com/pixelperfect/. The weekly Pixel Perfect webcast breakdowns the keys to a creating succesful realistic digital design.
He works hard to teach you the tools inside of Photoshop and Illustrator in order to set your own creativity free, not to copy his work.
Read more about Mr. Monroy on his site at: http://www.bertmonroy.com
Now that I have talked Bert up, the one difference between him and us. Hold the horses, there are many differences. He is a genius at creating photrealistic scenes and a true pioneer in the field. He has long hair, ok let's get back on track here. We are a training center where we bring instructors in for hands on training. The hands on training portion is truly key to learning how to do, well nearly everything.
It has been proven we learn with our brains but retain with our hands. At least the masses do anyway. We need to push buttons, turn knobs, and so on during the learning process. Another big difference between our instructor led classes is our flexibility. Bert and others teaching these large classes allow students to watch how it is done. At Millbrook Office Support and Training Center, you have the opportunity to create, play, and have fun. Our instructors take your industry and apply it to the class you are in.
I have not been specific here but it is important to understand how the filters work with in Adobe's Photoshop, Illustrater, and their many other complex programs... that's why it is so important to work along with the instructor, learning as you go, exploring, and having fun.
So by all means take part of the tours and the other lecture based classes but remember, they are not a substitute for an Adobe or Microsoft expert, leading an instructor led experience and letting you drive during the process.
To learn more about registering for our instructor led classes visit Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Photoshop Fun and Inspiration
There are a lot of cool ways to learn programs like Photoshop. It may in class with someone like us and for many instructor led classes are the best way. You can learn a lot of information that is relevant to your industry, your projects, and so on. Other ways are with online tutorials or services like Lynda.com.
However most can do a tutorial and get a match or close to the end product but it doesn't really test what you have learned. Ah, so enter the contest. There are thousands of them out and I will list others along the way but one nice selection of different contests, all on one site can be found at:
http://www.worth1000.com/cdir.asp?display=photoshop&filter=f.format_id=1
Well worth checking out. Oh, one other not on contests. When you are looking for inspiration give one a whirl. You might it was "time well wasted".
All, for this one. Remember, your hair will fall out when your dead. Quit pulling it out now. Enjoy life, have fun!
Dennis Tomlin
334-285-6808
http://millbrookofficesupport.com
http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
However most can do a tutorial and get a match or close to the end product but it doesn't really test what you have learned. Ah, so enter the contest. There are thousands of them out and I will list others along the way but one nice selection of different contests, all on one site can be found at:
http://www.worth1000.com/cdir.asp?display=photoshop&filter=f.format_id=1
Well worth checking out. Oh, one other not on contests. When you are looking for inspiration give one a whirl. You might it was "time well wasted".
All, for this one. Remember, your hair will fall out when your dead. Quit pulling it out now. Enjoy life, have fun!
Dennis Tomlin
334-285-6808
http://millbrookofficesupport.com
http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Monday, November 10, 2008
The demand for the COMPTIA classes are high!
The demand for the COMPTIA classes are high. So, every time we register 6 students we will have a class. We cap them off at 10 students per class, so register today. In January, we will be offering a 5 day Microsoft SharePoint developers class taught by Mark Dunn's training company. This will be a great class for those working in large or small companies. It will be centered around those that are SharePoint Developers. This will be a great course for those working in the government or at Maxwell AFB, especially since the Air Force is moving to an all SharePoint site way of doing things, at least that is how it seems.
To learn more about registering for a class visit http://millbrookofficesupport.com or http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com Or you can call 334-285-6808.
Til next time!
Dennis Tomlin
To learn more about registering for a class visit http://millbrookofficesupport.com or http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com Or you can call 334-285-6808.
Til next time!
Dennis Tomlin
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Now registering Instructor led COMPTIA, SharePoint, and .NET classes
In 2004, the DoD created a directive that requires all DoD information assurance technicians and managers are trained and certified to effectively defend DoD information, information systems and information infrastructures.
COMPTIA's A+, Network+, and Security+ training courses have been approved courses. Starting in January, Millbrook Office Support and Training Center will be offering the COMPTIA A+ class. We will offer a 7 and 5 day version of the class. The 7 day class will offer a much more hands on class but both are geared toward passing the COMPTIA certification exam.
If you are interested you can read the most current PDF concerning it here:
Information Assurance Training, Certification, and Workforce Management Directive 8500.01E
This section was taken from a post that describes what it entails.
"What is the significance of this mandate and of commercial certification in general? This mandate will have far-reaching implications, including:
* The Directive is viewed as a government endorsement of the effectiveness and costefficiency of commercial certification.
* It provides military and civilian personnel with a certification that is professional, internationally recognized and vendor-neutral (not tied to any agency, technology or product).
* It provides a portable certification that is recognized in both the public and private sectors.
* It mandates and endorses a global standard (ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024).
* It positions the information security profession as a distinct job series."
To read it all visit: click here
To learn more about registering for a class visit http://millbrookofficesupport.com
or http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Or you can call 334-285-6808.
The demand for the COMPTIA classes are high. So, every time we register 6 students we will have a class. We cap them off at 10 students per class, so register today.
COMPTIA's A+, Network+, and Security+ training courses have been approved courses. Starting in January, Millbrook Office Support and Training Center will be offering the COMPTIA A+ class. We will offer a 7 and 5 day version of the class. The 7 day class will offer a much more hands on class but both are geared toward passing the COMPTIA certification exam.
If you are interested you can read the most current PDF concerning it here:
Information Assurance Training, Certification, and Workforce Management Directive 8500.01E
This section was taken from a post that describes what it entails.
"What is the significance of this mandate and of commercial certification in general? This mandate will have far-reaching implications, including:
* The Directive is viewed as a government endorsement of the effectiveness and costefficiency of commercial certification.
* It provides military and civilian personnel with a certification that is professional, internationally recognized and vendor-neutral (not tied to any agency, technology or product).
* It provides a portable certification that is recognized in both the public and private sectors.
* It mandates and endorses a global standard (ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024).
* It positions the information security profession as a distinct job series."
To read it all visit: click here
To learn more about registering for a class visit http://millbrookofficesupport.com
or http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Or you can call 334-285-6808.
The demand for the COMPTIA classes are high. So, every time we register 6 students we will have a class. We cap them off at 10 students per class, so register today.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Expanded Training Now in Millbrook
We were very proud to be announced as the only Adobe Authorized Training Center in Alabama. However, we are growing into so much more at a break neck pace. In the past few weeks we have been named as the only private sector examination location for the State of Alabama insurance examination. We have partnered with the University of Alabama to test insurance agents from across Alabama. The exam will either let existing insurance agents broaden their horizons and sell new types of insurance or allow new agents into the industry.
We are also in the process of striking a deal with COMPTIA to bring in certified experts to teach A+ certification courses. Everything should be finalized soon and classes beginning right after the new year. Our classes will have two formats, a five and seven boot camp style. Both of them are instructor led but the seven day will allow for more hands-on exercises.
In December, We are excited to bring Stacy Cates in for three days of fun and hard work. The first two days will be an instructor led hands-on advanced Adobe Photoshop class. The third day is all about photo editing. Stacy will teach you the secrets of Photoshop's power when it comes to its photo restoration capabilities and the other over looked touches that separates another edited photo from one that allows the "natural" beauty of the subject to come out. These classes are a must for those looking to take their creativity to the next level.
As you can see there are some pretty cool things going on at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center.
Join us at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center on November 10 & 11 for our Adobe Illustrator hand on class. Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
We are also in the process of striking a deal with COMPTIA to bring in certified experts to teach A+ certification courses. Everything should be finalized soon and classes beginning right after the new year. Our classes will have two formats, a five and seven boot camp style. Both of them are instructor led but the seven day will allow for more hands-on exercises.
In December, We are excited to bring Stacy Cates in for three days of fun and hard work. The first two days will be an instructor led hands-on advanced Adobe Photoshop class. The third day is all about photo editing. Stacy will teach you the secrets of Photoshop's power when it comes to its photo restoration capabilities and the other over looked touches that separates another edited photo from one that allows the "natural" beauty of the subject to come out. These classes are a must for those looking to take their creativity to the next level.
As you can see there are some pretty cool things going on at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center.
Join us at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center on November 10 & 11 for our Adobe Illustrator hand on class. Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Adobe Illustrator Class Guaranteed
Adobe Illustrator classes aren't quite as popular as Photoshop and some of the other Adobe products but I think that might be a mistake, depending upon your industry. In a Birmingham Alabama creativity tour with Bert Monroy , I was able to see how well Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator could work together but it was until I went back to school did I realize how powerful Illustrator can be with the right training.
It is somewhat backwards to Photoshop users and that had a lot to do with, well everything to do with why I didn't give it a fair try.
Illustrator is designed to create light weight vector designs not bloated pixel creations. If you create artwork that needs to be reproduced in everything from tiny to huge Illustrator is your only smart way, although smart objects can help it is not replacement. Logos, web graphics, and more can be created and replicated with powerful Illustration tools.
If you are not familiar with a smart object, well you are missing quite a treat within Adobe's Photoshop CS3. I will save the big deal for another post. I will say the smart object tool will help you blow up images or parts of designs without it becoming to pixelated. It gives you a little wiggle room but don't confuse it with a true vector image. It is far from it. That is still Adobe Illustrator's domain.
Join us at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center on November 10 & 11 for our Adobe Illustrator hand on class. Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
It is somewhat backwards to Photoshop users and that had a lot to do with, well everything to do with why I didn't give it a fair try.
Illustrator is designed to create light weight vector designs not bloated pixel creations. If you create artwork that needs to be reproduced in everything from tiny to huge Illustrator is your only smart way, although smart objects can help it is not replacement. Logos, web graphics, and more can be created and replicated with powerful Illustration tools.
If you are not familiar with a smart object, well you are missing quite a treat within Adobe's Photoshop CS3. I will save the big deal for another post. I will say the smart object tool will help you blow up images or parts of designs without it becoming to pixelated. It gives you a little wiggle room but don't confuse it with a true vector image. It is far from it. That is still Adobe Illustrator's domain.
Join us at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center on November 10 & 11 for our Adobe Illustrator hand on class. Call 334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Printing service and training center celebrates 6 months
It is hard to believe Millbrook Office Support and Training Center has only been open six months. What started out as a custom print shop or “boutique” and a computer training center is growing into much more. According to Dennis Tomlin their plan in the beginning “was to become the only Adobe Authorized Training Center in Alabama, a Microsoft training partner, and a truly custom print shop”, but it seems more opportunities are coming their way.
A few weeks ago they began negotiations with the University of Alabama to become one of only four state insurance exam testing centers in the state. The other four are located in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile, and now Millbrook. Starting on October 23, current and potential insurance agents located in central Alabama will now take at least five different insurance examinations with them in order to obtain their state insurance license. “Through this process we learned from Denise Maddox the coordinator at UA, insurance agents must pass exams if they want to sell policies for fire protection, life insurance, and other types of policies”. “This really excites us on two different levels” Dennis says. “The UA contract will help offset business operating expenses which are so important with the current economical turbulence but it also creates a win-win-win situation for all of us. Approximately fifty five potential clients that may need our other services will walk through our doors each week; agents needing business cards, forms, copies, promotional items, and our other many services. But it also brings fifty five people to Millbrook forty nine weeks per year, that otherwise may not have been coming to our community. They will be here for three hours or more. They will need lunch, gas, snacks… they will need the services our community offers. We are very excited for all of us about this opportunity.”
Millbrook Office Support’s other services have also grown in this short period of time. They have become a store front and soon a web front for other small business in our area. “We knew from the start we wanted to provide promotional items to other businesses and organizations but what we didn’t realize there were local small businesses working out of their homes creating many of these products. We have teamed up with a local jeweler, the Alabama clay sculptor, an engraver, an Alabama author, and a hand carved pen set maker, along with other unique craftsman located right here in the river region. We are all trying to make a living and working together, I believe we can all succeed even in these turbulent times.”
Not all of their products are created local. They have become an Amazon affiliate allowing books, software, unique gifts, and much more to be purchased through their web site. “It only made sense to join up with Amazon. They offer the books and software we teach in our classes. With our affiliation they stock the products saving us up front costs and our clients can order them as needed.
Millbrook Office Support was also a participant in the Chamber’s recent business expo. “It was a great opportunity for us. We were able to talk one-on-one with so many people and businesses from Millbrook and the surrounding area that had no idea we were here. And talk to other businesses that we had no idea where in Millbrook. Businesses that can do everything from repair dents in your vehicle, decorate your home, beauty products and so very much more. We were amazed how many unique small businesses were here in Millbrook. After the public was gone, we found ourselves talking to each other and sharing ideas on how to better serve our customers, cut expenses, affordable advertising strategies, and general networking with each other. An expo where small businesses can come together and gain exposure to each other and the public is such an awesome event. We can’t wait until next year’s expo to see how much more Millbrook has grown.”
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center represents the new small business model with the old “small town spirit”, with a high-tech flavor. The technology they bring to Millbrook represents the future of our town. Their willingness to work hard toward their own American dream when economist say they shouldn’t is incredible but it is their understanding of the importance of community that represents the American spirit our country and what our community was founded on. The founders of Millbrook new as a community we could do it. Millbrook Office Support also believes as a community working together we can do it.
For more information on computer classes or their other printing services visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
http://millbrookofficesupport.com/ or call 334-285-6808.
A few weeks ago they began negotiations with the University of Alabama to become one of only four state insurance exam testing centers in the state. The other four are located in Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile, and now Millbrook. Starting on October 23, current and potential insurance agents located in central Alabama will now take at least five different insurance examinations with them in order to obtain their state insurance license. “Through this process we learned from Denise Maddox the coordinator at UA, insurance agents must pass exams if they want to sell policies for fire protection, life insurance, and other types of policies”. “This really excites us on two different levels” Dennis says. “The UA contract will help offset business operating expenses which are so important with the current economical turbulence but it also creates a win-win-win situation for all of us. Approximately fifty five potential clients that may need our other services will walk through our doors each week; agents needing business cards, forms, copies, promotional items, and our other many services. But it also brings fifty five people to Millbrook forty nine weeks per year, that otherwise may not have been coming to our community. They will be here for three hours or more. They will need lunch, gas, snacks… they will need the services our community offers. We are very excited for all of us about this opportunity.”
Millbrook Office Support’s other services have also grown in this short period of time. They have become a store front and soon a web front for other small business in our area. “We knew from the start we wanted to provide promotional items to other businesses and organizations but what we didn’t realize there were local small businesses working out of their homes creating many of these products. We have teamed up with a local jeweler, the Alabama clay sculptor, an engraver, an Alabama author, and a hand carved pen set maker, along with other unique craftsman located right here in the river region. We are all trying to make a living and working together, I believe we can all succeed even in these turbulent times.”
Not all of their products are created local. They have become an Amazon affiliate allowing books, software, unique gifts, and much more to be purchased through their web site. “It only made sense to join up with Amazon. They offer the books and software we teach in our classes. With our affiliation they stock the products saving us up front costs and our clients can order them as needed.
Millbrook Office Support was also a participant in the Chamber’s recent business expo. “It was a great opportunity for us. We were able to talk one-on-one with so many people and businesses from Millbrook and the surrounding area that had no idea we were here. And talk to other businesses that we had no idea where in Millbrook. Businesses that can do everything from repair dents in your vehicle, decorate your home, beauty products and so very much more. We were amazed how many unique small businesses were here in Millbrook. After the public was gone, we found ourselves talking to each other and sharing ideas on how to better serve our customers, cut expenses, affordable advertising strategies, and general networking with each other. An expo where small businesses can come together and gain exposure to each other and the public is such an awesome event. We can’t wait until next year’s expo to see how much more Millbrook has grown.”
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center represents the new small business model with the old “small town spirit”, with a high-tech flavor. The technology they bring to Millbrook represents the future of our town. Their willingness to work hard toward their own American dream when economist say they shouldn’t is incredible but it is their understanding of the importance of community that represents the American spirit our country and what our community was founded on. The founders of Millbrook new as a community we could do it. Millbrook Office Support also believes as a community working together we can do it.
For more information on computer classes or their other printing services visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com/
http://millbrookofficesupport.com/ or call 334-285-6808.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Learning Photo Retouching Can Really Pay Off
Hi everyone,
I'm taking a slight break from my top ten groups and associations. Someone can to our Millbrook Office with a disk full of images they wanted to create a lasting memory with in the form of a DVD. I told them great and that it sounded like a fun project.
After they left I started looking at the images and felt bad for them. Many of the pictures were damaged or out of focus. It was clear why they had given those pictures to me... they were great shots, a once in a life time opportunity but the problem was age or bad photography had stolen the moment.
Here's where an artistry only available in the digital dark room and Adobe Photoshop has the tools required. Before, I go any further, yes there are 1,000's of plugins out there to make photo retouching easier and more costly but you don't have to go that way.
Photoshop has a red eye remover, a variety of patch tools, color samplers, sharpening and blurring tools, and hundreds of combinations of tools to remove cracks, blurriness, tears and creases, picture noise and so much more.
So, you ask how can photo retouching pay off for you. Well, for the hobbyist it can help take an average photo and create well something truly special. However, you if you truly get serious about photo retouching a program like Photoshop can take a hobby and turn it into a career. It could be for a small wedding photographer or a major magazine or design firm. Retouching photos is everywhere and you can learn the skills but it takes time, practice, and training. Preferably from certified experts or at a minimum reputable craftsman in the field. You will truly pay for what you get but not what you need. Shop wisely when it comes to training.
So if you have Adobe Photoshop CS3 you have the tool box but do you have the skills. Well that may be a different story all together. Photo retouching is a craft. It is an artistry in to its self that can bring old photographs to life.
Let us help you learn the craft in an upcoming workshop with Stacy Cates here at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center. Seats are limited so call today for this special occasion.
334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
You can view our entire schedule at:
Millbrook Training Center Schedule
Til next time.
I'm taking a slight break from my top ten groups and associations. Someone can to our Millbrook Office with a disk full of images they wanted to create a lasting memory with in the form of a DVD. I told them great and that it sounded like a fun project.
After they left I started looking at the images and felt bad for them. Many of the pictures were damaged or out of focus. It was clear why they had given those pictures to me... they were great shots, a once in a life time opportunity but the problem was age or bad photography had stolen the moment.
Here's where an artistry only available in the digital dark room and Adobe Photoshop has the tools required. Before, I go any further, yes there are 1,000's of plugins out there to make photo retouching easier and more costly but you don't have to go that way.
Photoshop has a red eye remover, a variety of patch tools, color samplers, sharpening and blurring tools, and hundreds of combinations of tools to remove cracks, blurriness, tears and creases, picture noise and so much more.
So, you ask how can photo retouching pay off for you. Well, for the hobbyist it can help take an average photo and create well something truly special. However, you if you truly get serious about photo retouching a program like Photoshop can take a hobby and turn it into a career. It could be for a small wedding photographer or a major magazine or design firm. Retouching photos is everywhere and you can learn the skills but it takes time, practice, and training. Preferably from certified experts or at a minimum reputable craftsman in the field. You will truly pay for what you get but not what you need. Shop wisely when it comes to training.
So if you have Adobe Photoshop CS3 you have the tool box but do you have the skills. Well that may be a different story all together. Photo retouching is a craft. It is an artistry in to its self that can bring old photographs to life.
Let us help you learn the craft in an upcoming workshop with Stacy Cates here at Millbrook Office Support and Training Center. Seats are limited so call today for this special occasion.
334-285-6808 or visit http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
You can view our entire schedule at:
Millbrook Training Center Schedule
Til next time.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
And Let the top 10 begin!
Depending upon your interest you will there is a group for just about anything you are looking to join. For instance, photography clubs can be of great interest whether you are a hobbyist or professional.
If you want to actually meet with others I would certainly checkout http://meetup.com You can search and find groups in your area with your same interests. For example, I have recently started a group that deals with graphics, web design, multimedia, and other related topics. You can find us at: http://webdesign.meetup.com/525/
10) So, http://meetup.com would rank only because of its diversity. You can find any kind of group you are looking to join, schedule meetings, post images, and has a bulletin board.
9) OK, so far I am focusing in on where to find the group for you. One of the next great places to join is Google Groups. Google groups allows you to join as many groups as you would like to and in as many areas as you can dream up.
For instance, I have an Adobe Photoshop groups, a photography group, an Adobe Illustrator group, an Adobe training in Alabama group, well I think you get the idea. If I am stuck on a problem or I can help someone else with a problem... the answer can be found in a Google help group. I think Yahoo and MSN also have them but I am really pleased with how google allows you to control the groups. You can find them at: http://groups.google.com/
That's it for this week. If you are interested looking for inspiration a group is a great way to start. You can find a few more ideas at:
Til next time!
Dennis Tomlin
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Alabama's Only Adobe Authorized Training Center
If you want to actually meet with others I would certainly checkout http://meetup.com You can search and find groups in your area with your same interests. For example, I have recently started a group that deals with graphics, web design, multimedia, and other related topics. You can find us at: http://webdesign.meetup.com/525/
10) So, http://meetup.com would rank only because of its diversity. You can find any kind of group you are looking to join, schedule meetings, post images, and has a bulletin board.
9) OK, so far I am focusing in on where to find the group for you. One of the next great places to join is Google Groups. Google groups allows you to join as many groups as you would like to and in as many areas as you can dream up.
For instance, I have an Adobe Photoshop groups, a photography group, an Adobe Illustrator group, an Adobe training in Alabama group, well I think you get the idea. If I am stuck on a problem or I can help someone else with a problem... the answer can be found in a Google help group. I think Yahoo and MSN also have them but I am really pleased with how google allows you to control the groups. You can find them at: http://groups.google.com/
That's it for this week. If you are interested looking for inspiration a group is a great way to start. You can find a few more ideas at:
Til next time!
Dennis Tomlin
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Alabama's Only Adobe Authorized Training Center
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Associations and Friends are important for success
It is difficult to live in a vaccum and have success as a designer, no matter what you are designing. You need to grow and one of the best ways to do this is by attending workshops, seminars, training classes, and joining associations.
There are hundreds of groups that use Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat and nearly everything Adobe. For that matter every program out there has a following, find it,join it, become a part by asking questions but also answer questions.
In my next post I will list my top ten list. Til then visit Tips to Make You Better
Til next time.
Millbrook Training Center
There are hundreds of groups that use Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat and nearly everything Adobe. For that matter every program out there has a following, find it,join it, become a part by asking questions but also answer questions.
In my next post I will list my top ten list. Til then visit Tips to Make You Better
Til next time.
Millbrook Training Center
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Where do you train?
I've made no secret that we own Millbrook Office Support and Training Center. We opened this past summer. Before and since we have been looking at our competition, meaning where else can you go to get Adobe classes that are taught by Adobe certified experts.
We could be wrong but we haven't found any other Adobe Authorized Training Center's in Alabama. So, I'm very curious what is important to you when looking for training?
Are you looking for an authorized training center? Is it important to you that all of the trainers are not only experts in their field but are also experts in the software they are teaching such as Adobe's Photoshop CS3? Or can your instructor be someone that can read the book and muddle his/her way through the program?
How important is location? With fuel near record highs are you still making those trips to Orlando, Las Vegas, and other hot spots around the country?
I ask all of these questions because as the economy is shrinking, we are seeing training budgets not only shrinking but being slashed or cut out all together. We can help state, federal, military, and any other budget go so much further by cutting out expensive trips that cost more than the class itself. We would like for your to stay in Alabama for your training.
We can experts in nearly every graphic related field, along with other Microsoft technologies. Stop by and see us in Millbrook Alabama or visit us on the web at: Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Photoshop CS3 Introduction
October 6 & 7
InDesign CS3
October 8 & 9
Photoshop CS3 Advanced
October 23 & 24
Illustrator CS3
November 6 & 7
Til next time!
Dennis
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
We could be wrong but we haven't found any other Adobe Authorized Training Center's in Alabama. So, I'm very curious what is important to you when looking for training?
Are you looking for an authorized training center? Is it important to you that all of the trainers are not only experts in their field but are also experts in the software they are teaching such as Adobe's Photoshop CS3? Or can your instructor be someone that can read the book and muddle his/her way through the program?
How important is location? With fuel near record highs are you still making those trips to Orlando, Las Vegas, and other hot spots around the country?
I ask all of these questions because as the economy is shrinking, we are seeing training budgets not only shrinking but being slashed or cut out all together. We can help state, federal, military, and any other budget go so much further by cutting out expensive trips that cost more than the class itself. We would like for your to stay in Alabama for your training.
We can experts in nearly every graphic related field, along with other Microsoft technologies. Stop by and see us in Millbrook Alabama or visit us on the web at: Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Photoshop CS3 Introduction
October 6 & 7
InDesign CS3
October 8 & 9
Photoshop CS3 Advanced
October 23 & 24
Illustrator CS3
November 6 & 7
Til next time!
Dennis
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Friday, September 26, 2008
Buyer Beware or Jump On In
Hello everyone,
I have question for nearly everyone if not everyone in the design, multimedia, and so on world. With the announcement of Adobe's new CS4 line of software are you going to go out and buy it as soon as it's offered or are you going to wait?
Often large corporations are pressured to release their software before it's really ready. I think all of us are familiar with Microsoft's masterpiece with Vista, ME, and so on.
I'm not sure if Adobe has done this with their full CS4 Suite or not. I know we are not going to run and buy it on day one but will concede to say we will be buying. We just are not sure how long before we jump on the bandwagon. After all, if there were issues during a class I'm not sure our clients would be very understanding and no matter how much beta testing goes into a software package there will be issues.
So that's my take. How about all of you? Do you jump in untested waters or let everyone else test the water, let you know how cold it is and then decide? To those who do decide to lineup at the software store at midnight to get the latest and greatest... let us know how it goes.
Til next time.
Dennis
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
I have question for nearly everyone if not everyone in the design, multimedia, and so on world. With the announcement of Adobe's new CS4 line of software are you going to go out and buy it as soon as it's offered or are you going to wait?
Often large corporations are pressured to release their software before it's really ready. I think all of us are familiar with Microsoft's masterpiece with Vista, ME, and so on.
I'm not sure if Adobe has done this with their full CS4 Suite or not. I know we are not going to run and buy it on day one but will concede to say we will be buying. We just are not sure how long before we jump on the bandwagon. After all, if there were issues during a class I'm not sure our clients would be very understanding and no matter how much beta testing goes into a software package there will be issues.
So that's my take. How about all of you? Do you jump in untested waters or let everyone else test the water, let you know how cold it is and then decide? To those who do decide to lineup at the software store at midnight to get the latest and greatest... let us know how it goes.
Til next time.
Dennis
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
Thursday, September 25, 2008
A true print specialist coming in October
In October, Millbrook has a real treat. Bill Carberry an Adobe Certified Instructor and Print Specialist for Adobe Acrobat, Illustrator, InDesign, PageMaker and Photoshop will be coming to Millbrook Office Support and Training Center to teach an Adobe InDesign CS3 course and a Photoshop CS3 Introductory course.
With decades of real world experience and application expertise, you can't ask for a better combination in an instructor. A typographer by trade, Bill loves to teach technology by translating technical terms into plain English. Bill believes learning should be an enjoyable experience and will teach you how to work smarter, not harder. You'll learn the best practices during detailed demonstrations and rigorous hands-on exercises that will keep you involved and informed. You can also receive expert answers to your specific questions by bringing relevant samples of your work to class. A veteran consultant for the publishing industry and recipient of a Best Speaker award from Toastmasters International.
With decades of real world experience and application expertise, you can't ask for a better combination in an instructor. A typographer by trade, Bill loves to teach technology by translating technical terms into plain English. Bill believes learning should be an enjoyable experience and will teach you how to work smarter, not harder. You'll learn the best practices during detailed demonstrations and rigorous hands-on exercises that will keep you involved and informed. You can also receive expert answers to your specific questions by bringing relevant samples of your work to class. A veteran consultant for the publishing industry and recipient of a Best Speaker award from Toastmasters International.
Call today to reserve your seat for our Adobe Photoshop Introductory class on October 6th & 7th or on October 8 & 9th, an Adobe InDesign CS3 class.
This is too good of an oppurtunity to pass up.Tuesday, September 23, 2008
3D could be a new trend
With Photoshop CS3, one of the coolest things was its ability to do 3D and edit actual movies within it. This was extremely impressive. The ability to bring in 3D models color, paint, and applying effects to models is awesome no matter how you look at it.
I wonder if this is a new trend they will continue with CS4? Maybe we will know today.
Let's see!
Get registered at http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Til then!
Dennis Tomlin
http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
I wonder if this is a new trend they will continue with CS4? Maybe we will know today.
Let's see!
Get registered at http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Til then!
Dennis Tomlin
http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Monday, September 22, 2008
Adobe Prepares to Release CS4
Hello Everyone,
Well as good as the upgrade from CS2 to CS3 was, Adobe is promising and even better upgrade with the the new realease of Creative Suite CS4 and Web Suite CS4.
I have only had a chance to play around with a beta version of Dreamweaver CS4 and I must admit it had some pretty nice built in features. Some of them were available as either addon free from Adobe or purchased from 3rd parties. I have to believe that Adobe is trying to listen to its users.
Only time will tell.
Learn more by signing up for a free webinar introducing it to the world on September 23rd. I've posted a little more information at http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Let me know what you think about it.
Til then.
Dennis Tomlin
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Well as good as the upgrade from CS2 to CS3 was, Adobe is promising and even better upgrade with the the new realease of Creative Suite CS4 and Web Suite CS4.
I have only had a chance to play around with a beta version of Dreamweaver CS4 and I must admit it had some pretty nice built in features. Some of them were available as either addon free from Adobe or purchased from 3rd parties. I have to believe that Adobe is trying to listen to its users.
Only time will tell.
Learn more by signing up for a free webinar introducing it to the world on September 23rd. I've posted a little more information at http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Let me know what you think about it.
Til then.
Dennis Tomlin
Millbrook Office Support and Training Center
http://millbrooktrainingcenter.com
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Authorized Adobe Training Center now in Alabama
Hello Everyone,
for the past 10 years I've been sent across the country to attend Adobe and other types of training classes. Until now, there were no Adobe Authorized Training Centers in Alabama. We opened up Millbrook Office Support and Training Center for just that reason.
We bring in Adobe Certified Expert Instructors from around the country. Instructors in; Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator and most of the other Adobe software solutions.
It amazed me until I started looking for training how few of the centers I was attending or considering attending didn't use certified experts but even more importantly, they don't use experts in the area they are teaching. If there is no other advice I can give you it is this.
Please seek out a training center that is an authorized training center or at least recognized by the people that create the training materials they are teaching. For example, an Adobe or Microsoft expert.
Secondly, make sure they are experts in what you want to learn. If you are trying to learn InDesign because you are in the print industry ask if your trainer is or has been in the print industry. Don't ever hesitate to ask about your instructor.
You want to spend your training budget wisely. So always ask the important questions.
If you need advice on potential Adobe or Microsoft training, please don't hesitate to ask. You can reach me at info@millbrookofficesupport.com or visit Millbrook Office Support and Training Center.
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
for the past 10 years I've been sent across the country to attend Adobe and other types of training classes. Until now, there were no Adobe Authorized Training Centers in Alabama. We opened up Millbrook Office Support and Training Center for just that reason.
We bring in Adobe Certified Expert Instructors from around the country. Instructors in; Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator and most of the other Adobe software solutions.
It amazed me until I started looking for training how few of the centers I was attending or considering attending didn't use certified experts but even more importantly, they don't use experts in the area they are teaching. If there is no other advice I can give you it is this.
Please seek out a training center that is an authorized training center or at least recognized by the people that create the training materials they are teaching. For example, an Adobe or Microsoft expert.
Secondly, make sure they are experts in what you want to learn. If you are trying to learn InDesign because you are in the print industry ask if your trainer is or has been in the print industry. Don't ever hesitate to ask about your instructor.
You want to spend your training budget wisely. So always ask the important questions.
If you need advice on potential Adobe or Microsoft training, please don't hesitate to ask. You can reach me at info@millbrookofficesupport.com or visit Millbrook Office Support and Training Center.
Til next time.
Dennis Tomlin
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