Choosing Between Photoshop and Canva for Beginners

Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, you'll be able to:

1. Compare the core features of Photoshop and Canva
2. Choose the right tool based on your skill level and project needs
3. Navigate the basic interface of both platforms
4. Understand the cost differences and make budget-friendly decisions

Introduction

When you're starting your photo editing adventure, choosing between Photoshop and Canva can feel overwhelming. Both tools serve different purposes and work best for different types of users. Photoshop offers professional-grade editing with precise control, whilst Canva focuses on quick, template-based designs that look great without much fuss.

This chapter breaks down exactly what each tool offers, how much they cost, and which one makes sense for your current skill level. You'll get hands-on experience with both platforms so you can make the right choice for your projects.

Lessons

Understanding What Each Tool Does Best

Step 1: Open Canva in your browser and browse through the template library. Notice how everything is organised by project type – social media posts, presentations, flyers, and more.

Step 2: Look at Photoshop's interface (you can view screenshots online if you don't have access yet). Notice the layers panel, tools palette, and adjustment options – these give you complete control over every pixel in your image.

Step 3: Identify your typical projects. If you need quick graphics for social media or business materials, Canva excels here. If you're editing photos or creating complex designs from scratch, Photoshop is your tool.

Getting Started With Each Platform

Step 1: Create a free Canva account and try the drag-and-drop editor. Pick a template and swap out the text and images – you'll have something professional-looking in minutes.

Step 2: If you have Photoshop access, open it and create a new document. Try basic tools like the brush, text tool, and crop function. Don't worry about advanced features yet.

Step 3: Compare how long each takes to produce a simple graphic. Canva wins for speed, whilst Photoshop offers more customisation options.

Weighing Up the Costs

Step 1: Check Canva's current pricing. The free plan includes thousands of templates and basic editing tools. The Pro plan adds more templates and features like background removal.

Step 2: Look at Adobe's Creative Cloud pricing for Photoshop. You'll pay monthly or annually, with student discounts available.

Step 3: Calculate your yearly costs. Include any additional resources you might need, like stock photos or fonts.

Practice

Create the same design in both Canva and Photoshop – try a social media post with your photo, some text, and a coloured background. Time yourself with each tool and note which parts were easier or harder in each platform.

Pay attention to:

• How quickly you can get started
• The quality of your final result
• Which interface feels more natural
• Any limitations you hit along the way

FAQs

Which tool should complete beginners choose?
Canva works better for absolute beginners. Its templates and simple interface mean you'll create decent-looking graphics immediately, building your confidence before tackling more complex tools.

How much do these tools actually cost?
Canva offers a generous free plan, with Pro starting around £10 monthly. Photoshop costs approximately £20 monthly through Adobe's Creative Cloud subscription.

Can I use both tools together?
Yes, many people start designs in Canva for speed, then export to Photoshop for detailed editing. You can also create elements in Photoshop and import them into Canva designs.

Will I eventually need to switch from Canva to Photoshop?
Not necessarily. Many users find Canva meets all their needs permanently. Switch only if you need advanced photo editing, complex layering, or have specific creative requirements Canva can't handle.

Jargon Buster

Template – A pre-made design layout you can customise with your own text, images, and colours

Layers – Separate levels in your design that you can edit independently, like stacking transparent sheets

Subscription Model – Paying monthly or yearly to access software, rather than buying it once

Drag-and-Drop – Moving elements around your design by clicking and dragging with your mouse

Creative Cloud – Adobe's subscription service that includes Photoshop and other creative software

Wrap-up

You now understand the key differences between Photoshop and Canva. Canva suits beginners who want quick, professional results without a steep learning curve. Photoshop works better when you need precise control and advanced editing capabilities.

Start with whichever tool matches your immediate needs and budget. You can always add the other tool later as your skills and projects evolve. The most important thing is to start creating and practising with real projects.

Ready to dive deeper into photo editing techniques? Join thousands of other learners mastering these tools at https://www.pixelhaze.academy/membership