dancing

Three weeks ago today, I posted a free half-hour video to my buddy Scott Kelby's blog. Titled "The Essential Approach to Masking," the above video documents the way you approach a typical masking project in Photoshop, from real-world beginning to bitter-sweet end. To quote one of Scott's fans: "It’s like Mercedes would offer their clients a test-drive in the new BMW." Except that I drive a beat-up Jeep. Go figure.

Today, I make available to members of dekeOnline two special files: The full-resolution downloadable video and a layered Photoshop file. Read more » 

First, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Colleen Wheeler. I'm an editor at O'Reilly Media, publisher of Deke's popular (if currently underpopulated) One-on-One books. And for reasons that no one quite remembers, I was put in charge of Deke. It's a big job, but someone has to do it.

Perhaps you've witnessed the resurgence of dekePod. In which case, as with any time you experience a great work of art, you want to know more, be a part of the magic in some way. How did this masterpiece come about? How many thousands of CGI extras suffered heatstroke or severe chapped lips during the arduous making of this video? How did the production team make Deke look like more of a cartoon character than he already is? Well, my friends, not to worry: here is your behind-the-scenes look at the making of dekePod Pilot #2, "101 Photoshop Tips in 5 Minutes." Yes, you're welcome.

It all started with a dream. Then it all started again with the cast of talented professionals meeting in the gorgeous city of San Francisco. Here is the view from the top of the Hyatt, where Big Time Stars like Deke stay when they're in The City, and where they have their editors purchase Bombay Sapphire martinis while they discuss the two days of arduous shooting ahead. Enjoy the swanky view because tomorrow we're going gritty. Read more »