Hello from Kentucky! - SBB Digital Scrapbooking Forums | Scrapbook-Bytes

Jenny265 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-10-2008

My name is Jenny, and I am totally new to igital Scrapbooking.
I have been scrapbooking for years, but now that I have 2 young children, I like the idea of not having to pull all my paper and embelishments out and put them away when I only have 10 minutes to give to a page in the first place!

I downloaded the trial version of PSP X2 and am completely lost. I have Microsoft Picture it! 9 on my computer, and don't feel quite as lost, but I don't like that you can't do drop shadows (at least that I can find). I am wondering if I shouldn't try something more like Photoshop Elements, or even Broderbund's Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Designer just to start out.

I look forward to posting and getting to know you all!
Jenny

Tracey R (Haley64) · #2 (**permalink**) 02-10-2008

Hi Jenny, Welcome to SBB!!

First I wouldn't go down to a program such as Broderbund's program. I am not sure how it works but many times certain programs do not allow you to do what you are going to need to be able to do.

I use PSPX and have been a long time user of it. PSP is a very powerful program for it's price.
I tried Elements 3 and threw it out with the trash, couldn't wrap my head around that version and why simple things wouldn't work (like so many other programs do).
Elements is not going to be any easier to work with and learn then PSP is going to be. They both have about the same learning curve and just stick with one and get to know it would be my advice.
Then later once you think you outgrow PSP you can always purchase PhotoShop if it is in your budget!

I have CS2 and I like it a lot, lot better then Elements but not as much as PSPX!

Start with doing some of the basic PSP tutorials here and you will slowly get to learn the program and where the tools are and what they do.

Just holler if you need help, there are quite a few of us here that use PSP and are very happy with it!

Jenny265 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-10-2008

Thanks so much Haley!
I will definitely check out the tutorials. I figure I will give it the 30 day trial to try and learn it anyhow

Hopefully I can figure out enough by then to decide if I like it or not.
I am not particularly computer proficient, so even the most basic things are proving quite hard. But I don't want to give up--I really think I will love it once I figure it out!

littlecountryquilts · #4 (**permalink**) 02-10-2008

Hi Jenny! YOu came to the right place. There a few gals who use PSP and do a lot of tutorials with it... and they are always willing to answer questions and help out! I use Photoshop and I love it, but it has quite a learning curve too...so you just have to jump in, bite the bullet, and get started. It won't be long and you'll be scrapping away! I host a challenge called "Try Something New" each week and I challenge you with tutorials to try, then use in a layout. The tuts are from all the programs, so you will fit right in! Welcome!!

Jenny265 · #5 (**permalink**) 02-10-2008

Thanks so much for the warm welcome.
I hope that I will get decent enough at some point to particiapte in your challenges!
I think my problem is that I have no clue when it comes to even the basics of the basics. I looked over some of the basic tutorials, and found myself scratching my head at some of the terms they use. If I don't understnad teh "basic" tutorial, I think I may be in trouble!