[Gramma J]

Ladies...I didn't know where else to post these questions. I really want to get started with digital scrapbooking. I have purchased and installed PhotoShop Elements 4.0. Where do I go from here. I listened to some of the tutorials but everything still seems "greek". I'm getting frustrated 'cause I really would like to make an actual page. Can't open my pictures. Don't know what to do with the few freebies I have downloaded (want to purchase several of the packages of papers and fonts but don't want to spend the money til I have some idea of how to store and use them). Also...some things are labeled as transparent with me adding the color...how is this accomplished. I guess that is enough questions for now. Thanks for any help you can give me.
Joan

[angelaNussbaum]

I dont know elements, but i do know that there are some very help full documents and a free video for doing your first page in the university (see above tab).

This is where you can find things like organizing, what to do etc.

There was some videos that showed you how to do a simple first page... but i cant seem to find them, as the layout of the university has changed. I am sure that if you can describe in detail each issue you have, some of the brilliant ladies will jump right in and help!

Angela

[sprinklz]

Gramma -

I highly recommend you get this video tutorial: Scrapbook Software Secrets Revealed: Photoshop Elements 4.0 - Downloadable version

Not only does it take you step by step through scrapping with pse4, but it also includes an informational file that will get you started from opening pse4 for the very first time.

[Mindy]

The area in the SG University where Angela directed you is exactly where I was going to say too. Also, when I first started, I got Ro's videos: http://store.scrapgi...?id=1862&cat=20 which really helped me to get headed in the right direction. It's tough at first, but once you get going with it, it gets easier and easier (and more addictive!!!). I figured if everyone else could learn it, I could too! Another good place to start is using the Easy Pages: http://store.scrapgi...egory.php?cat=2 because you can just add your pictures and you have a beautifully designed page. If you run into questions along the way, just ask! Good luck!

[Mindy]

I was just looking aroun the boutique and perhaps one of the new Start to Finish ebooks would be helpful: Start to Finish eBooklet - PSE: How to Make a Birthday Scrapbook Page for instance. Just make sure that you get one for PSE and not the PS ones. HTH!

[sprinklz]

Great suggestions Mindy!

[Karooch]

There are many resources available, but after you've looked at the free stuff mentioned above it's really worthwhile investing in the Scrapbooking Secrets video training program. It will cut your learning curve down dramatically so you can start making layouts that you'll be happy with quickly. That way you'll keep the fire of enthusiasm burning long enough for the addiction to set in.

[Gramma J]

[
Ladies...thanks so much for all of the advice. I am planning to purchase the Scrapbook software secrets and plunge into it this weekend. I teach at the elementary level and am giving myself this summer break to learn this so that I can use it in my classroom. I'm thinking it will make a nice end of the year gift to give my students a memory book of their year in my classroom.

[Mindy]

That would be such a neat gift! Fun to make too!

This is a good time to buy the Scrapbook Secrets videos with the sale on. Gotta love a sale!

[amanda]

Hi Gramma Joan (I'm SO glad you found us!) This is a perfect place to post your questions, people are very helpful. Don't be shy, even if you think it's a stupid question. Chances are, someone else has already been there and can help you out. I felt the same way when I first started and felt like every question I asked was stupid- like I should already know how to do it or something. But remember, we all were beginners once too! Get specific, tell us where you are getting stuck and maybe we can help.

As for not being able to open your pictures, I'm not sure why. Here's what I'd suggest trying:
1) in PSE, open a new document with a transparent background
2) on your desktop if you are able to, open up your folder where your photos are
3) click one of your photos and drag it into the open PSE
4) this should automatically open your photo into PSE and then do the same thing, click it and drag it into your blank 12x12 page

if that doesn't work, from your PSE menu, go to file > open
then go to the folder where your photos are and choose your photo

or

right click on the photo (inside of the folder) and then choose to open that file with PSE
I hope one of those options works for you!

[jonjonsmom]

I'm late to this one but Ro has a great tutorial on how to create a digital Lo using PS in the university section. It really helped me.