[plschwartz]

Would spending time working with Photoshop elements2 before tackling PS7 make sense? Is it a good way to learn basics or will it ultimately be confusing. I must say I find PS7 intimidating.

[rextilleon]

So much depends upon what your needs are. Learning Elements cant hurt--it has many of the same controls that the full fledged Photoshop has so you will get a good start. You should concentrate on how to adjust your white balance, your hue and saturation, how to mask and how to sharpen your photo. As your photography evolves you will probably want to take the step up to Photoshop CS.

[Moby]

Don't know if you've seen Elements in action. It looks similar to photoshop. I thought I'd try elements first but it all looked just as intimidating to me so dived straight into photoshop.
I'll just post screen shots of both incase you haven't seen them compared. May help, may not. These pics are left big big by the way.
This one is Photoshop Elements.

[Moby]

photoshop

[plschwartz]

Thank you both.
Moby:From the two pics it does appear that there is less on the elements menu which I find less intimidating
Rex: Thanks for the heads up in the direction to take first. Am saving your post in my photo folder.

[kricu]

Before answering your question, I would like to ask:
Do you have experience in learning a new application using books, help text, and web resources?

The differences between elements and photoshop can be limiting in learning how to use a digital imaging application.
For instance, elements does not have guides, fixed constraint ratios, or extended tools, filters, etc. I need these items for the imaging productions. An example: My website has over 200 images per story. I use psd to manipulate the photos for web and print production. Elements would be limiting to my goals.

When I first started using psd, it was difficult, learning how to size, select, manipulate layers, text, and filters, and file ouput.
(Here is my Yoda moment) With trial comes experience, with experience comes understanding, with understanding, production rocks. Get the right tools! My votes is: Photoshop. If you need any help learning, go to the library get a book, read the help text, and dont be afraid to screw anything up.
K