[Ricky]

Hi all. I just started using/learning Photoshop Elements today. My biggest question right now is where can I find good quality generic images for use as background and whatnot? I've been using Google's image search, and have found a couple of things that I like. However, most of the other images are really small and aren't of high quality.

Thanks in advance. It's exciting to be learning this program.

[RedStar]

For good quality pictures off the web you're going to either need large pictures shrunk down (do an advanced google search for large pics), or to buy some from a stock photo house.

http://www.istockphoto.com has some pretty cheap prices (like a buck), but semi good pictures.

http://www.gettyimages.com has pretty expensive prices, but a huge image bank.

There may be other ways, but I don't know what they are. In any case be careful when taking pics from google if you are going to distribute them. intellectual property is a touchy thing nowadays.

Edit:: as said below...taking your own pics is probably the best way to do it

[bluedog]

Use a digital camera, scan your own photographs, or create backgrounds in photoshop with just a small portion of a web image and lots of filters/effects/hand editing.

Photoshop isn't only about putting together photos. It can generate all kinds of imagery and patterns. The lighting effects often produce great effects when used in conjunction with a layer that has a lot of transparent areas.

[Eyenovation]

Look on Google for Photoshop Textures. Many times they're free. They will include wood, metal, stucco, etc. Used properly w/ Layer effects, you do A LOT with those.

[Drifter]

Hemera has some good stuff. Photo Clip Art is $30.
Juice Drops has some weird weird stuff.
No idea what else.

[derbs]

www.sxc.hu

type in 'textures'