SEBASTOPOL, Calif. -- For visually creative people of all stripes, it's a brave, new, and exciting digital world. However, frustration has been brewing in homes, and offices across the country because, after patiently waiting for Adobe Creative Suite 3 -- the largest software release in Adobe's 25-year history -- digital photographers, designers, and artists immediately wanted experienced guidance, and trusted resources to teach them all about CS3's immensely useful new, and improved features.

Thankfully, O'Reilly's latest publication -- Dynamic Learning: Photoshop CS3 (O'Reilly, $44.99) -- gives early adopters, enthusiasts, and digital media professionals that essential information, and training in Photoshop CS3. Written by product professionals, and trainers -- Jennifer Smith, and members of the Aquent Graphics Institute creative team, who have produced many of Adobe's own manuals -- the comprehensive, new Dynamic Learning system is the equivalent of hiring an Adobe personal trainer, 24 x 7.

The 13 lessons in the book include clear explanations of how the software works, easy-to-follow instructions, full-color examples, professional tips, and techniques, and something brand new: a DVD with Digital Classroom video tutorials of the topics covered in the book. Self-study exercises, and review questions at the end of each chapter reinforce the skills learned. In addition to the book, and the DVD, O'Reilly will also be offering free, downloadable guides for educators using the books in their courses.

"The video tutorials really make these books unique," explains Jennifer. "We're excited to be able to connect directly with our readers with the included videos. Readers can complete the exercise on their own, and then view the video tutorials to watch the authors work through complex topics."

Dynamic Learning: Photoshop CS3 is the first title in O'Reilly's new Dynamic Learning series. In the coming months, O'Reilly will roll out Dynamic Learning titles on Flash CS3 Professional, Dreamweaver CS3, Illustrator CS3, and InDesign CS3. Each Dynamic Learning book includes a DVD with lesson files, and Digital Classroom video tutorials linked to the topics, and exercises in the text.

Chapter topics include:

• What's new in Photoshop CS3

• Photoshop CS3 basics

• Creating a good image

• Making accurate selections

• Painting, and retouching

• Working with layers

• Using Smart Objects, and Smart Filters

• Creating images for web, and video

Dynamic Learning: Photoshop CS3 aims to help photographers embrace, and exploit Adobe's new photo software. By working through the lessons, users develop essential skills along with a clear understanding of how the software works, and how to use it to their best advantage. Creating beautiful images has never been so easy.