Adobe photoshop: whats best for a beginner?

i recently got adobe photoshop cs2, and its all greek to me!

lately i've taken up photography and photo editing as a hobby, and i want to make it a more serious interest for me.

i think i started out too advanced w/ cs2 w/o really knowing the basics of abode or photo editing.

so my question is what software/ free downloads (of adobe or anykind) would be ideal to give me a good basics foundation.

i jumped right into the hard stuff w/o learning teh beginners level yet.

so, what can i use???

thx,

brionna

Adobe photoshop: whats best for a beginner?virus protection software

Adobe ''Elements'' is like a Photoshop light, has similar interface and tools... you can usually get this free with a Scanner type purchase.

BUT

seeing as you already have the best possible photo editinig tool lin your arsenal I suggest you jump in feet first and learn CS 2

pick up a ''Visual Quickstart'' book or ''Photoshop Bible'' (the later being more advanced, but also more comprehensive..

stick to it - once you get the hang of it you'll be gald you did!

Adobe photoshop: whats best for a beginner?adware

Adobe is giving FREE ondemand seminars explaining the new features of Adobe Photoshop CS2. They explain how does it work and you can also ask questions in the support site.
I learned on photoshop 5.5 and 6... But belive me - photoshop cs2 is a great thing too...