PSD
PSD (Photoshop Document) is the standard file format used in professional photo editing and design work. It's most commonly associated with Adobe Photoshop, which is the industry-standard software for image editing. What makes PSD files special is that they keep all the separate layers and editing information intact, unlike regular image files like JPG or PNG. Think of it like a sandwich where you can still move around all the individual ingredients, rather than having them permanently stuck together. When employers ask for PSD skills, they're looking for someone who can work with these editable files and understands professional photo editing.
Examples in Resumes
Created and maintained product photos in PSD format for e-commerce website
Managed library of over 1000 PSD files for marketing campaigns
Developed brand style guides and templates as PSD files for team use
Typical job title: "Photo Editors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Photo Editors
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage large volumes of PSD files in a commercial environment?
Expected Answer: A senior editor should discuss file organization systems, naming conventions, version control, and backup strategies. They should also mention collaboration methods and file sharing best practices.
Q: How do you ensure consistency across multiple PSD files for a brand?
Expected Answer: Should explain creating and maintaining style guides, using template files, organizing layers consistently, and implementing color schemes and design standards across all files.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's your process for optimizing PSD files for different uses (web, print, mobile)?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they adjust image resolution, file size, and color modes for different purposes, while maintaining quality and editability.
Q: How do you handle complex retouching projects in PSD files?
Expected Answer: Should describe their approach to organizing layers, using adjustment layers, masks, and non-destructive editing techniques.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between PSD files and other image formats?
Expected Answer: Should explain that PSDs maintain layers and editing capabilities, while formats like JPG or PNG are flattened final images.
Q: How do you organize layers in a PSD file?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic layer management, grouping, naming conventions, and the importance of keeping files organized.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic photo editing and retouching
- Layer management
- Basic color correction
- Simple file organization
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced retouching techniques
- Batch processing
- Creating and using actions
- Complex layer management
Senior (5+ years)
- Project workflow optimization
- Team coordination
- Advanced automation
- Quality control processes
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of file organization or naming conventions
- Unable to work with layers in PSD files
- No knowledge of color modes or image resolution
- Lack of experience with professional photo editing software
Related Terms
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