Opening an Existing Image or File
Once you have opened Photoshop, you can start editing right away! Follow the directions below to open an existing Photoshop file (.psd) or image.
Tip: To re-open a recently opened file, select Open Recent to select from a list of recently opened files.
Create a New Photoshop File
Although you may typically open images in Photoshop, there are times when you need to create a new file. This may happen when you want to make a collage, create a web banner, design an ad, or more. This page will show and explain each section of the new dialog box.
New Document Dialog Box
1. Name
The Name field is where you can add a name to your new document. This should be a name that helps you easily identify the file.
The Preset field is where you can choose whether you would like to base your document size on a provided preset or by creating your own custom size.
If you chose Custom as your Preset, then you will not have to use this dropdown.
If you chose to use any other Preset above, then you will see size options based on the Preset you selected. For example, if you selected U.S. Paper, you will then see common U.S. paper sizes such as Letter, Legal, and Tabloid.
If you are unsure of a good size for your document, we recommend trying one of the Presets and pre-determined sizes.
If you did not select a Preset and chose to create a custom size, then this is where you can type in your desired document width and height. Note that you may change the units, by clicking the dropdowns beside the width and height values and selecting inches, pixels, centimeters, etc.
6. Resolution
The resolution is what determines the quality of the image and refers to the number of pixels per inch (or centimeter) of the image.
** Visit All About Images Guide to learn more about how resoluton works and how to choose the best resolution for your image.
7. Color Mode
Color mode allows you to choose what mode and bit you wish to use for your new document. Note: CMYK refers to print colors and is generally used for images that will be printed. RGB refers to the dot colors and is intended for use of web, video, or any digitally disaplyed image.
8. Background Contents
This allows you to determine the color of your Background layer. Choosing White or Transparent will make your layer respectively white or transparent. Choosing Background Color will change the layer color to whatever is currently selected as the Background Color in the Color Palette.
9. Color Profile
If you are using a color-managed workflow or want to use a color profile of a specific device or Color Space, you may select that profile from this dropdown.
** Click here to learn more about adding and managing color profiles.
10. Pixel Aspect Ratio
The pixel aspect ratio is useful for those who are creating graphics to be used for video work that is not HD or does not use square pixels.
This refers to the file size of your new document, meaning how much space on a hard drive or disk is needed to save the file. This number is measures in bytes, kilobytes (K) , megabytes (M), and gigabytes (G).