A: The workshops are platform independent. All of the techniques covered in the workshop can be accomplished on either a mac or a pc. You are welcome to bring your own computer and use it during the workshop. You will need to have the programs loaded on your computer.
A: The workshops focus on techniques and it isn't necessary for you to be an expert in any of the software. You should expect that at some times you may need to ask for clarification but we will be happy to make sure you get the most out of the workshop. It is recommended that you take a look at the programs before you come to the workshop in order to familiarize yourself with the interface. The SketchUp/Photoshop Perspective workshop requires some familiarity with Photoshop to get the most out of the workshop. However, no real knowledge of SketchUp is required (but it would be very useful if you downoad the trial version and play with it for a day or two.) The Photoshop/Illustrator workshop covers more Photoshop fundamentals and starts Illustrator basically from scratch (you will know the program by the time you leave!)
Our workshops are designed to cover multiple skill levels. We do this by including advanced tips and shortcuts throughout all of the instruction. We have also found that most people that consider themselves proficient with the software have learned the software through trial and error on their own. We cover some core concepts of how the program works, what it is "thinking", etc, that help people with skills understand the program in a different way. Advanced users often comment that they learn lots of little time-saving tricks because they are not as focused on finding the buttons. For advanced user, if they can find 3-4 new ways of doing something that will save them a couple of hours each day, it doesn't take long to recoup thier investment (considering their time is usually billed at ~$100/hour or more). We often have advanced users say that one technique they learned in the workshop has cut a 16-hour project into an 8-hour project!
Check out the Testimonials to hear what others have said about skill levels and the workshops. Click here...
A: You won't need to bring anything for the workshop we will provide you with a laptop and mouse for your use while you attend and the files necessary to complete the exercises. We provide a 1GB jump drive for you to take home that has all of the exercises on it. You can also save your in-class exercises from the workshop onto the jump drive to refer to once you are back in the office.