How Do I Create an Action in Photoshop CC?

Creating actions in Photoshop CC can save you a lot of time and effort, especially when you have repetitive tasks that need to be done. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of creating an action step by step.

Step 1: Recording the Action

To begin creating an action, go to the Actions panel by selecting Window > Actions or pressing Alt+F9 on your keyboard. Once the panel is open, click on the "Create New Action" button at the bottom of the panel. A dialog box will appear where you can name your action and assign it to a set.

Tip:

If you have a specific task in mind for this action, it's helpful to name it accordingly. This will make it easier for you to identify and locate the action later.

Step 2: Recording the Steps

With the action created, you're now ready to start recording the steps. Any adjustments or edits you make while recording will be saved as part of the action.

To start recording:

• Click on the red "Record" button at the bottom of the Actions panel.
• Perform all the necessary steps for your desired action. This can include applying filters, adjusting colors, resizing images, or any other Photoshop operation.
• Once you're done with all the steps, click on the square "Stop" button at the bottom of the Actions panel to stop recording.

Tip:

You can also include keyboard shortcuts during recording by using them while performing your desired steps. This can further speed up your workflow when using actions later on!

Step 3: Testing the Action

Now that you've recorded your action, it's time to test it and make sure it works as expected.

To test the action:

• Select a different image or open a new Photoshop document.
• Select your action from the Actions panel.
• Click on the triangular "Play" button at the bottom of the Actions panel to run the action.

Tip:

If your action didn't produce the desired results, you can edit it by selecting it in the Actions panel and clicking on the "Record" button to make changes. Once you're done editing, remember to click on the "Stop" button to save your changes.

Step 4: Applying the Action

Once you're satisfied with your action and have tested it successfully, you can apply it to multiple images or documents effortlessly!

To apply an action:

• Select multiple images or open multiple Photoshop documents that you want to apply the action to.
• Select your desired action from the Actions panel.
• Click on the triangular "Play" button at the bottom of the Actions panel to run the action on all selected images or documents.

Tip:

You can also create a batch process using actions by going to File > Automate > Batch. This allows you to apply an action automatically to a folder full of images without having to manually select each one!

Congratulations! You have now learned how to create an action in Photoshop CC. By utilizing actions, you can save significant time and effort in your workflow, allowing you to focus more on your creativity and less on repetitive tasks.