Help! Photoshop Elements vs. Photoshop cs3 or cs4

I have photoshop elements 7 and i just cannot figure out how to use it. I want to enhance pictures, to black and white with like a particular item in color, make invites and announcements.....any feedback on these two programs?

What do you use? Is it hard to use? hard to learn? What can you do with it?

TIA!!

Re: Help! Photoshop Elements vs. Photoshop cs3 or cs4

I have CS4 and love it but I think you can do everything you listed in elements.

There are a few ways to do a black and white photo with color pop but the main thing you have to learn is how to work with layers. Once you get the hang of working with layers everything will be a bit easier.

Try looking for some tutorials online. Here are a few to start with.

Adobe Tutorials

Re: Help! Photoshop Elements vs. Photoshop cs3 or cs4

I have CS3. I'm self taught for the most part but there are helpful tutorials on youtube & itunes.

If you want me to do a class for LIFers to show you how or if you want to meet up, FM me.

Re: Help! Photoshop Elements vs. Photoshop cs3 or cs4

Elements 7 will definately do what you want. I recommend the book Photoshop Elements 7 for digital photographers by Soctt Kelby and Matt Kloskowski. The more advanced CS3,4 or 5 is overkill for what you want. Once you learn the program you currently have you might want to upgrade, but you don't need to spend the money right now.

Re: Help! Photoshop Elements vs. Photoshop cs3 or cs4

If you have a child that's a student, you can get a discount through Adobe's education program.

http://www.adobe.com/education/purchasing/