Find the best Adobe Photoshop jobs

What does a freelance Photoshop expert do?

A freelance Photoshop expert uses the software’s many capabilities for photo manipulation, including the creation, sharpening, and modification of photos or other images in a way that’s suitable for reproduction via print or for use on the web.

Adobe Photoshop experts are hired by organizations of all sizes across multiple industries because of their familiarity with photo editing. For example, clients employ Adobe Photoshop experts to execute designs of new graphics, and magazine publishers work with them to ensure photos and other artwork are refined and ready for publication.

What skills do I need to become a freelance Adobe Photoshop expert?

Common skills freelance Adobe Photoshop experts should possess include:

• Artistic ability with an eye for photography. While it’s not required for Photoshop experts to be photographers, it’s helpful that they have an understanding of the discipline. Having knowledge about photographic elements such as the proper usage of light and exposure can help elevate the quality of the work.
• Sketching or drawing ability. Photoshop experts are usually skilled at sketching, allowing them to work with various types of photographs and imagery in order to edit, manipulate, and add new elements in programs such as Illustrator or inDesign.
• Cropping. Along with having a good eye for photography, a Photoshop expert should be able to properly crop photos to configure just the right composition needed for the image’s final iteration. This skill comes in handy when the photographer captures a product or individual but the balance and composition of the scene requires improvement.
• An understanding of typography. Because freelance Adobe Photoshop experts work with typography in addition to photographs, it’s critical that they are able to manipulate letters, numbers, and words to convey the intended impact within the final project.
• Familiarity with print and web development. Photoshop experts should have a thorough understanding of web development and print production principles. These are necessary to create final photos and imagery in formats that are easily used online and in print.
• Excellent communication. Photoshop experts should be able to communicate effectively with clients and other graphic designers involved with the projects. It’s important to understand client objectives while also conveying certain principles to all parties involved with the project.

What are the core freelance Adobe Photoshop expert job responsibilities?

While the list of responsibilities can be quite extensive, there are core tasks virtually all Photoshop experts should anticipate, including:

• Design and deliver static and moving graphic assets for marketing and communications projects using Photoshop and related software
• Develop creator user flows in addition to wireframes and visual prototypes
• Design branding elements for print collateral and online platforms, including logos, brochures, presentations, landing pages, and email
• Collaborate with marketing and communications teams around implementation and integration across multiple platforms
• Refine and update all photographs and imagery currently used across all media
• Remain up-to-date with the latest versions of Photoshop and available plugins
• Coordinate with photographers before and after photo shoots

Should I get an Adobe Photoshop degree or certification?

In addition to developing your skills, obtaining a degree and/or professional certification can help your Upwork profile stand out. Degrees or certifications helpful for Adobe Photoshop experts include:

• Associates, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in art, graphic design, or programming from an accredited university
• Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) (Advertising, Workfront Fusion, Commerce Developer, and more)—offered by Adobe
• Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)—offered by Adobe