Session 1: A Gentle Introduction to Pixel Studio

• Getting Comfortable with the Workspace: Celia will take us on a relaxed tour of the interface so you know exactly where all the essential tools live without feeling overwhelmed.  

• Understanding RAW vs. JPG: Learn the right setup choices when opening your files. We will look at why opening a RAW file (the pure, uncompressed image data straight from your camera sensor) gives you so much more flexibility to fix highlights and shadows compared to a standard, compressed JPG.  

• Mastering the Develop Tools: Think of this as your digital darkroom. Celia will show you how to use simple adjustments to balance your exposure, correct the colour temperature (white balance) and get your tones looking beautiful before you do any creative editing.  

• An Introduction to Layers: Learn how to use Layers, which act like stackable, clear sheets of glass. By putting different elements, brushes, or adjustments on separate layers, you can edit one part of your project without accidentally altering or ruining the rest.  

Session 2: Selections and Masks

• Making Accurate Selections: Discover how to use simple tools to outline and isolate a specific part of your photo or artwork so you can edit only that area without affecting the background.  

• The Magic of Non-Destructive Masks: If you have ever used an eraser tool and regretted it later because your original photo was permanently changed, Masks are the answer. A mask acts like a safe, digital stencil that lets you hide or reveal parts of an image using black or white paint. Your original photograph remains completely untouched and perfectly safe underneath, allowing you to change your mind at any time.  

• Working with Adjustment Layers: Instead of baking changes directly into your photo, Celia will show you how to place adjustments (like brightness, contrast, or colour boosts) on their own separate layers. It is like putting a pair of removable sunglasses over your image - you can tweak them or turn them off completely whenever you like.  

Session 3: Retouching and Finishing a Simple Project

• Essential Retouching Tools: Learn how to neatly clean up distractions, sensor spots, or small blemishes in your images using Affinity's dedicated retouching tools.  

• Creative Filters and Blend Modes: Discover how to apply special effects (Filters) and use Blend Modes. Blend modes are simply clever ways of telling two layers how to interact with each other - such as blending a texture into a background or creating a soft, dreamy lighting effect.  

• Bringing It All Together: We will wrap up the series by putting all these new skills into practice with a short, guided final project, giving you a beautiful, finished result and the confidence to explore Pixel Studio on your own.