Dr Taz Tally (Ph.D.) is legendary for his entertaining, content-rich seminars on a wide range of electronic publishing topics, including scanning, Photoshop and digital file preparation. This isn't his first Photoshop book but he has managed to be amongst the first to publish on Photoshop CS2. Dr Tally is also known for his ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms and I'd say he has remained in character with regard to this book. As I've said before, if you want to read a book about one of your favourite software products then why not go straight to the top and read one from an expert in the field.

The book has appeal for both the experienced and the novice Photoshop user. I felt leaning more towards the newbie but I also felt it was a beneficial way to learn some tips and tricks with regard to Photoshop CS2

With all that going for it do we need to look at the content ... well, yeah, thats why we're here ... lets inspect some of the chapter headings:

• Essential Makeover Tools
• Dimensional Makeovers
• Exposure Makeovers
• Color Makeovers
• Composition Makeovers
• Repairs Makeovers
• Sharpening Makeovers
• Shadow Makeovers
• Effects Makeovers
• And, Extreme Makeovers

Each chapter takes you on a step by step journey from the "blah before" image to the "amazing after" image. A couple of the journeys were a bit blah for me but some of the chapters had me bristling with enthusiasm. The boring geek in me knows that Photoshop is never truly blah and all learning is good learning.

All "before" images are supplied from the Publisher's website. There are some hefty files with some of the Chapter downloads nearing the 20mb scale but broadband users will handle this with ease. There are also bonus chapters on the website and bonus downloads from Adobe. All plus plus, in my opinion.

Overall I give this book a thumbs up ... if you are a Photoshop user who wants to improve your skills with some tutorials from an expert in the field, then this book is right up there. If you are an experienced Photoshop user there are tips and tricks there for you too. Its one big glossy book with some big glossy makeovers.