Hot Software Posts

How To: Create a photo-within-a-wine glass effect in Adobe Photoshop

In this free video Photoshop lesson, we learn how to create a simple wine glass photo effect. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular raster graphics editor or a seasoned designer looking to better acquaint yourself with the new features and functions of the latest iteration of the application, you're sure to benefit from this free software tutorial. For more information, watch this video guide.

How To: Avoid choppiness when playing back video in Sony Vegas

In this video clip, you'll learn how to ensure smooth playback when playing back video in Sony Vegas. Whether you're new to Sony's popular non-linear editor or a seasoned video professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the program and its various features and filters, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Create a karaoke-style video in Sony Vegas Pro

In this video clip, you'll learn how to create a karaoke video in Sony Vegas Pro. Whether you're new to Sony's popular non-linear editor or a seasoned video professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the program and its various features and filters, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Create lower-third and subtitle backgrounds in Sony Vegas

In this video tutorial, we learn how to create low-third and subtitle backgrounds in Sony Vegas. Whether you're new to Sony's popular non-linear editor or a seasoned video professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the program and its various features and filters, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Create particle effects with the Aux Particle function in Trapcode Particular

Using Trapcode Particular, Harry Frank teaches us how to create subtle unusual particle effects using the Aux Particle function in Trapcode Particular. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular motion graphics and compositing software or a seasoned video professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the program and its various features and filters, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this fre...

How To: Use the Saturation Curve editor in Apple Color

In this free video software tutorial, you'll learn how to use the Saturation Curve editor when color correcting or grading footage in Color. Whether you're new to Apple's popular non-linear editor or a seasoned digital video professional merely looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're certain to be well served by this video guide. Take a look.

How To: Fix washed-out colors with Sony Vegas Movie Studio

In this free video software tutorial, you'll learn how to fix washed-out colors in Sony Vegas Movie Studio. Whether you're new to Sony's popular non-linear editor or a seasoned digital video professional merely looking to pick up a few new tips and tricks, you're certain to be well served by this video guide. Take a look.

How To: Use Camera Raw in Photoshop

In this video, we learn how to use Camera Raw in Photoshop. This is a great program to use with your SLR digital camera that will make your photos come through more clear than ever before. After you have downloaded this application, you will load your photos to it and open up your desired on to edit. On the right hand side you will see a toolbar allowing you to edit and change different effects on the photo. Move the bars from left to right to edit how the photo looks to your liking. On the t...

How To: Join lines in Xara Xtreme

In this video, we learn how to join lines in Xara Xtreme. All the lines in this are independent, but they can be joined together to make an object. First, open up the object gallery and then duplicate the layer. After this, copy the image and increase the line size by four pixels. Then, go to "arrange" and "combine shapes". From here, the shapes will all combine together to make one total image. Make a rectangle around this and then select "subtract shapes". Combine the layers to finish, then...

How To: Create a glossy shield in Xara Xtreme

In this video, we learn how to create a glossy shield in Xara Xtreme. First, open up the program and then create the shield outline. After this, create another outline inside of it. Arrange these and then combine them together, adding in silver in between them. After this, you will add a light blue color to the top and then separate this with a dark blue color at the bottom. To make this appear shiny like a shield, you will add in white around the outline of the inner shape. Once finished, sa...

How To: Create animated frozen titles in After Effects

This After Effects tutorial will show how to create a nice, smooth animated text effect, which turns your icy font into a frozen font. This is a great animation that can be easily learned, whether you're an AE pro or novice. Laurence Grayson chills out as he shows you how to create this ice texture effect, glassy text and a frozen text animation - all using just the standard effects that come in CS3, CS4 or CS5.

How To: Create a rusty, grungy checker plate texture in After Effects

You may not recognize the term "checker plate", but you've more than likely encountered it many times before. It's more commonly referred to as "diamond plate" and is the hardwearing, lightweight, non-slip metal stock with raised diamonds (or lines) that frequently adorn flight cases, stage decking and metal stair treads. This video will show you how to recreate that grungy look in After Effects.

How To: Create a scroll panel in Adobe Fireworks CS5

In this video tutorial, we learn how to create scroll panels within Fireworks CS5. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular bitmap and vector graphics editor (formerly known as Macromedia Fireworks) or are a seasoned web design professional simply looking to become better acquainted with the application, you're sure to benefit from this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed step-by-step instructions, take look.

How To: Import ASE files in Adobe Fireworks CS5 when rapid prototyping

In this video tutorial, we learn how to import ASE files in Fireworks CS5 when doing prototyping work. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular bitmap and vector graphics editor (formerly known as Macromedia Fireworks) or are a seasoned web design professional simply looking to become better acquainted with the application, you're sure to benefit from this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed step-by-step instructions, take look.

How To: Create wireframes with doc templates in Adobe Fireworks CS5

In this video tutorial, we learn how to create wireframes using doc templates in Adobe Fireworks CS5. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular bitmap and vector graphics editor (formerly known as Macromedia Fireworks) or are a seasoned web design professional simply looking to become better acquainted with the application, you're sure to benefit from this free video software tutorial. For more information, including detailed step-by-step instructions, take look.

How To: Assign design to a page template when using Dreamweaver CS5 with WordPress 3.0

In this video tutorial, we learn how to employ live code when working with WordPress 3.0 from within Adobe Dreamweaver CS5. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular WYSIWYG HTML editor or a seasoned web development professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the CS5 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, include detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Use live code when using WordPress 3.0 with Adobe DreamWeaver CS5

In this video tutorial, we learn how to employ live code when working with WordPress 3.0 from within Adobe Dreamweaver CS5. Whether you're new to Adobe's popular WYSIWYG HTML editor or a seasoned web development professional just looking to better acquaint yourself with the CS5 workflow, you're sure to be well served by this video tutorial. For more information, include detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this free video guide.

How To: Make stencils in GIMP

In this tutorial, we learn how to make stencils in GIMP. Start with heads or faces if you are new to this. Then, use the rectangle tool to select the head. Then, go to image and fir canvas to selection. Now, remove the background by using the background tool. Once finished, go to colors, then threshold. The image should turn black and white. Turn the dial to the right, then turn it to the left to make it lighter and darker. Find the spot to where it shows detail but it's not distorted, then h...

How To: Apply normal maps in 3D Studio Max

In this video, we learn how to apply normal maps in 3D Studio Max. First, go to the cylinder button and name it. Then, change the radius and height how you would like them. After this, select "extended primitives" from the drop down menu on the top. From here, enter in the diameter and sides for the round hose and then select the diameter of the cylinder. This will create a cylinder but with the look of a hose instead. Use the bottom toolbar to edit the sizes of the map and then save this whe...

How To: Make 50 Cent-style drums in Fruity Loops

In this video, we learn how to make 50 Cent-style drums in Fruity Loops. First, you will need to have the 50-cent drums software to use in Fruity Loops. After this, use the different drums that will be on the left hand side to create different sounds. Test them out and then add them together until you have a beat that you like. Change the pattern of the drum beats and the tempo, then change the volume if you want to as well. After this, you can play through your entire beat and then edit more...

How To: Use Lloyd Banks drum samples in FL Studio

In this video, we learn how to use Lloyd Banks drum samples in FL Studio. You can get the Lloyd Banks drum samples from: Class4beats. Start off by making various different types of drums tat you like using the drum kit on the left hand side toolbar. Put on a pattern and then listen to how it sounds. After you add this, you can change the tempo and volume of each of the drums to make it sound exactly how you want it. Make it up as you go along to change the drum sounds and when you're finished...

How To: Make a basic dirty south loop arrangement in Reason

In this video, we learn how to make a basic dirty south loop arrangement in Reason. First, load up a synth loop from the Dirty South loops. Find one that you like, then find a drum loop for this. After you have loaded this, then load up a sampler to add to this. Play this and then start to edit the sound. You can higher and lower the volume and change the tempo as well. Take small sections at a time and then you will have a sound that you like! Save this when finished and come back to edit wh...

How To: Make a histogram chart in Excel

In this tutorial, we learn how to make a histogram chart in Excel. To create a vertical histogram, you will enter in data to the chart. Then, highlight all of the data and go to "insert", "chart", then choose a regular column chart. Grab a regular 2D column and then make sure your values are correct. Then, right click and go to "chart options", then take the legend off. Now, make these columns all touch each other by right clicking over the columns and formatting them. Go to "options" then ch...

How To: Make a scary voice effect on Adobe Audition

In this video we learn how to make a scary voice effect on Adobe Audition. First, record an audio that you made and open up Adobe Audition. From here, open up any other audio that you want to hear for the beat. Then, go to "generate" and then "silence. Put this to 1.5 seconds, then go to the end of your sound and do the same thing. This will make a good effect when you are editing and adding in echo. First, reverse the audio by going to "effects" and then "reverse". This will make it a lot ea...

How To: Draw a manga eye in MS Pain and make it blink

In this video, we learn how to draw a manga eye in MS Pain and make it blink. Start out in Paint and draw the outline of the eye. After this, color the outside area in black and then fill in the pupil area of it. Color the eye blue or any color that you desire, then add in lines to the middle of the eye to make it look more realistic. Leave white around the edge of the eye. Create an eyebrow over this, then add it to a flesh-toned background. Once you have done this, you will be finished with...

How To: Compose a hip hop beat in Fruity Loops

In this video we learn how to compose a hip hop beat in Fruity Loops. First, go to the website www.class4beats.com and download all the samples and plugins. Once you have these downloaded you can use them in Fruity Loops. Play around with the different sounds that you have in this and then put a new beat together. Once you have a beat put together, change it to a hip hope type of beat and then add it in with a melody for a new sound. This will make a great hip hop beat that is all your own an...

How To: Ink and color in Photoshop

In this video, we learn how to ink and color in Photoshop. First, you will want your background and sketch in two layers. Make a new layer which will be the layer you ink your art on. Move the opacity down on this, then zoom in and start inking your art. Use a normal brush in whatever size will fit your art the best. Take your time, then start a new layer when finished. Color the areas of the picture, then when you join these layers together, you will have an entire drawing finished. Make sur...

How To: Draw anime eyes in MS Paint

In this tutorial, we learn how to draw anime eyes in MS Paint. First, open up MS Paint and then grab a marker that is thick. From here, draw in a thick line that will be the top of the eye. Then, draw in the round area underneath the eye and the pupil inside of this. Draw in the bottom lash line of the eye, then start to add detail to the middle of the eye. Use the dark line to create a thicker line around the pupil, then fill the eye in with black. Leave a white part to make the eye look glo...

How To: Create a brochure with Microsoft Publisher 2007

In this video, we learn how to create a brochure with Microsoft Publisher 2007. A brochure says a lot about your business, and you can make them yourself easily! Find the brochure templates first in the program. Choose a design and a color scheme along with the page size, font, and information you want to include. Once you do this, add in pictures and images to your template after clicking "create". Then, you can create a range of publications that adapt to different form functions. Click the...

How To: Design a cartoon environment in Adobe Flash

In this tutorial, we learn how to design a cartoon environment in Adobe Flash. Start out by picking the color for the green. Use different types of green, making a gradient so it transitions from a lighter to a darker color. After this, draw on the sky making it go from darker at the top to lighter blue at the bottom near the grass. Add in a fence on the grass, then draw on circles with gradient layers to create mountains. Create a new layer to make dirt and grass on the front of the picture ...

How To: Create advanced shadows in GIMP

In this video we learn how to create advanced shadows in GIMP. First, create a new image that's 500x400. After this, create different layers on the page and use the shadow and gradient to create different colors. As you do this, you can you can add in a layer mask to create a deeper shadow inside the image. Use a larger brush to make the shadowing fuzzy and then use the shape tool to drag it out and make it larger. Practice playing with the different brushes and gradients and have fun creatin...

How To: Draw anime eyes in MS Paint

In this video, we learn how to draw anime eyes in MS Paint. First, draw the round circle for the head and draw a line in the middle for reference of where the eyes will go. To draw large eyes, draw two round circles and then a small pupil at the top. Color the pupils in black and color the rest any color you'd like. For female eyes, make the pupils much larger and add in eyelashes on the eyelids. Shade in underneath the lids and add white to show they are glossy. These are both great looks fo...

How To: Draw a dog in MS Paint

In this tutorial, we learn how to draw a dog in MS Paint. You will do this by using Paint and your mouse, not using a tablet or a pen on the PC. Start out by drawing the outline of the dog in the middle of the page. Next, fill in the nose, mouth, and eyes with black. Then, color the tongue and draw on the ridges of the teeth in the mouth. From here, you will spray paint the color of the dog onto the edges. Spray brown around the edges, then add in white, tan, black, and other colors to make t...

How To: Whiten teeth in Photoshop like a professional

In this video we learn how to whiten teeth in Photoshop like a professional. Start off by opening up Photoshop and zooming in on the teeth in your photo. Start out by selecting a hollow brush and then paint the selection onto the teeth. Paint around them carefully and make sure you don't touch the gums in the middle and on the top of the teeth. Once you have selected the entire area of the teeth you will see them all covered in red. Then, go to "select" and "inverse", then press the button fo...

How To: Fix MP4 audio issues in Sony Vegas Movie Studio

In this video, we learn how to fix MP4 audio issues in Sony Vegas Movie Studio. First, close the program from your computer. After this go to the website: http://tinyurl.com/mp4fix. Download this file and then go to the folder that the program is in and copy the name of it. From here, open the folder where the file is stored within Sony Movie Studio. Then, rename the file "qt7plug.old". Then, insert this into the previous folder and launch the program. This should solve you problem and you sh...

How To: Double space a paragraph in MS Word in 2 clicks

In this video, we learn how to double space a paragraph in MS Word in 2 clicks. If you've needed to double space a paragraph, but didn't want to do it manually through each sentence, this will make it a lot easier. All you have to do is highlight the paragraph you are working with. After this, press the control button and the number 2. After this, the paragraph will automatically come up and show that it is double spaced. You can use this on your entire paper or just for a part of a paragraph...