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Photoshop + AI: Build Better Layouts, Faster (Updated title)

Code Date Delivery Cost
ITS-1007
  • Thu Jul 16, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Live Online : 1 session $300

Before each live online session, Tech Training will provide a Zoom link for live online classes, along with any required class materials.

Explore best practices to create professional layouts in Photoshop while using AI to generate copy, plan assets, explore creative direction, and streamline production. This workshop blends layout fundamentals with AI-assisted efficiency.

Program Description

Strong layouts require clarity, hierarchy, and preparation. In this workshop, participants explore how AI can function as a design planning partner while Photoshop remains the primary creation tool.
AI is used to generate placeholder copy, propose creative directions, suggest asset lists, and evaluate layout structure. Participants then build their selected concept in Photoshop using layers, typography tools, selections, and smart production workflows.

The emphasis is on decision-making, structure, and consistency. AI supports ideation and checklist generation. Photoshop delivers execution.

By the end of the session, participants will have had the opportunity to create a polished layout while developing a repeatable workflow that reduces hesitation and speeds up production.
 

Learning Objectives

Participants will have the opportunity to:
1. Translate a written creative brief into a structured layout plan
2. Use AI to generate placeholder copy and content sections
3. Identify required design assets before beginning layout
4. Apply hierarchy, alignment, and spacing principles in Photoshop
5. Use AI-assisted evaluation to refine layout clarity and consistency
6. Prepare files correctly for print and web export
7. Develop a repeatable fast-layout workflow
 

Topic Outline

Topics:
Module 1: Creative Direction with AI
- Writing a clear design prompt
- Generating 2¿3 visual directions
- Clean institutional
- Bold student event
- Minimalist clinic flyer
- Selecting one direction and defining audience
- Translating concept into layout zones

Module 2: Content and Asset Planning
- Generating placeholder copy
 - Headlines
 - Subheads
 - Event details
 - Calls to action
- AI-generated asset checklist
 - Hero image
 - Supporting image
 - Icons or graphics
 - Background elements
 - Logo placement
- Creating a structured Photoshop document setup

Module 3: Layout Construction
- Setting up guides and grid systems
- Placing images and text
- Establishing hierarchy using size and contrast
- Working with Smart Objects
- Grouping and organizing layers

Module 4: Fast Image Prep for Layout
- AI-assisted selection tools
- Background cleanup
- Object removal for distraction control
- Preparing images for layout placement
- Maintaining realism and image quality

Module 5: Brand and Consistency Review
- Describing the layout to AI for structured critique
- Reviewing alignment, spacing, and contrast
- Refining typography choices
- Improving visual flow
- Using AI as a checklist, not a final authority

Module 6: Export and Production Assistant
- Print vs. web export settings
- Resolution and color modes
- Bleed and safe zones
- File naming conventions
- AI-generated export checklist for quality control

Prerequisites

Technology Requirement:
Adobe Photoshop Creative Cloud. AI text tools will be used during guided exercises.

Prerequisites:
Basic familiarity with Photoshop tools and layers is recommended.
Learning Objectives

Credits

3 Professional Development Units (PDU)
0.3 Continuing Education Units (CEU
3 Professional Development Hours (PDH)
Stanford Technology Training Program Certificate of Completion Awarded

Custom training workshops are available for this program

Technology training sessions structured around individual or group learning objectives. Learn more about custom training

Special Group Rates

For groups of 5 or more within the same team or department, special rates are available. Please contact techtraining@stanford.edu for more details.


University IT Technology Training sessions are available to a wide range of participants, including Stanford University staff, faculty, students, and employees of Stanford Hospitals & Clinics, such as Stanford Health Care, Stanford Health Care Tri-Valley, Stanford Medicine Partners, and Stanford Medicine Children's Health.

Additionally, some of these programs are open to interested individuals not affiliated with Stanford, allowing for broader community engagement and learning opportunities.