# Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Cra… Review (2026) — 8.0/10

> Independent review of Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course on Udemy. Rated 8.0/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and top altern…

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course

![Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course](/api/media/file/hero/photo-editing-on-the-cheap-course.jpg?width=800)

# Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course — Review (8.0/10)

This concise course offers a practical introduction to Pixelmator as a Photoshop alternative. It delivers clear, hands-on techniques for removing and inserting objects in photos. While brief, it’s eff...

Explore This Course

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is a 48 minutes online all levels-level course on Udemy by Jeremy Shuback that covers graphic design. This concise course offers a practical introduction to Pixelmator as a Photoshop alternative. It delivers clear, hands-on techniques for removing and inserting objects in photos. While brief, it’s effective for beginners seeking affordable editing skills. The straightforward approach makes it accessible, though advanced users may want more depth. We rate it 8.0/10.

## Prerequisites

No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in graphic design.

## Pros

- Affordable alternative to expensive photo editing software

- Clear, concise instruction ideal for visual learners

- Hands-on techniques applicable to real-world projects

- Beginner-friendly with no prior experience required

## Cons

- Very short total runtime limits depth of coverage

- Limited to Pixelmator, which has fewer features than Photoshop

- No advanced retouching or color correction techniques covered

## Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course Review

Platform: Udemy

Instructor: Jeremy Shuback

Updated Apr 24, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate

## What will you learn in Photo Editing on the Cheap course

- By the end of the course you'll be able to take objects out of photos, isolate sections of photos, as well as insert objects into other photographs.

### Program Overview

### Module 1: Getting Started with Pixelmator

Duration: 14 minutes

- Introduction to Pixelmator (1m)

- Finding Your Images (4m)

- The Basics (9m)

### Module 2: Working with Selections and Layers

Duration: 11 minutes

- Selection and Layers (11m)

### Module 3: Advanced Editing Techniques

Duration: 17 minutes

- Removing Out Parts of an Image (17m)

### Module 4: Final Steps and Resources

Duration: 5 minutes

- Example Files and Wrap Up (5m)

### Get certificate

#### Job Outlook

- Photo editing skills are in demand across marketing, social media, and freelance design roles.

- Learning affordable tools like Pixelmator makes you more adaptable in cost-conscious environments.

- Foundational editing knowledge transfers to other software and boosts creative employability.

## Editorial Take

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is a streamlined, accessible entry point into digital photo manipulation without relying on costly software. Created by Jeremy Shuback, this course positions Pixelmator as a viable, user-friendly alternative to Photoshop, targeting budget-conscious learners, hobbyists, and aspiring designers.

### Standout Strengths

- Cost-Effective Learning: This course eliminates the financial barrier of high-end software. It empowers users to achieve professional edits using an affordable tool, making creative skills more accessible to everyone.

- Beginner-Friendly Approach: The course assumes no prior knowledge. Its step-by-step walkthroughs ensure that even complete novices can follow along and grasp core editing concepts with confidence and clarity.

- Practical Skill Development: Learners gain hands-on experience in essential tasks like object removal and insertion. These are immediately applicable skills for social media, personal projects, or freelance work.

- Time Efficiency: At under an hour, the course respects learners’ time. It delivers focused, actionable content without fluff, making it ideal for those seeking quick, tangible results.

- Clear Learning Path: The syllabus is logically structured, moving from setup to execution. Each module builds on the last, ensuring a coherent progression from basic navigation to actual editing tasks.

- Instructor Clarity: Jeremy Shuback communicates effectively, using straightforward language and visual demonstrations. His teaching style enhances comprehension, especially for visual and kinesthetic learners absorbing technical software workflows.

### Honest Limitations

- Software Constraints: Pixelmator, while capable, lacks the robust toolset of Photoshop. The course's effectiveness is inherently limited by the software's capabilities, especially for complex professional workflows.

- No Project-Based Learning: While example files are provided, there's minimal guidance on applying skills to original projects. Learners must self-direct practice to truly internalize the techniques taught.

### How to Get the Most Out of It

- Study cadence: Complete the course in one sitting to maintain continuity. The short duration makes binge-learning feasible and effective for retaining the workflow sequence.

- Parallel project: Open your own photo during each demo. Practice each tool alongside the instructor to reinforce muscle memory and software familiarity.

- Note-taking: Capture keyboard shortcuts and tool names. These notes will speed up future editing and help bridge gaps when working independently.

- Community: Join Pixelmator forums or Reddit groups. Sharing your edits and asking questions can deepen understanding beyond the course’s limited scope.

- Practice: Recreate the techniques on five different photos. Repetition builds confidence and reveals edge cases not covered in the structured lessons.

- Consistency: Apply one editing technique daily for a week. Even 10 minutes a day reinforces learning and turns theory into instinctive skill.

### Supplementary Resources

- Book: 'The Adobe Photoshop Book for Digital Photographers' by Scott Kelby. While software-specific, it teaches universal editing principles applicable to Pixelmator.

- Tool: GIMP – a free, open-source alternative. Use it to expand your editing toolkit and compare workflows across platforms.

- Follow-up: Explore Udemy’s 'Graphic Design Masterclass' for broader design context and advanced composition skills that complement photo editing.

- Reference: Pixelmator’s official user guide. It provides detailed documentation on tools not fully covered in the course, supporting independent learning.

### Common Pitfalls

- Pitfall: Assuming Pixelmator can do everything Photoshop can. Manage expectations—some advanced filters and automation features are missing or simplified.

- Pitfall: Skipping practice after the course. Without hands-on repetition, the techniques fade quickly, reducing long-term retention and skill development.

- Pitfall: Overlooking file resolution. Beginners may edit low-quality images, not realizing output quality depends on input—always use high-res photos for best results.

### Time & Money ROI

- Time: At 48 minutes, the course demands minimal time. It’s ideal for busy learners wanting quick, practical skills without a long-term commitment.

- Cost-to-value: Even at a paid price, the course offers strong value by teaching transferable skills using affordable software, justifying its cost for budget-focused creatives.

- Certificate: The Certificate of Completion adds minor value—useful for personal tracking but not widely recognized in professional design circles.

- Alternative: Free YouTube tutorials exist, but this course offers structured, ad-free learning with curated content, making it a worthwhile upgrade for focused learners.

### Editorial Verdict

This course succeeds precisely because it doesn’t try to do too much. It targets a specific pain point—expensive photo editing software—and offers a realistic, accessible solution. By focusing on Pixelmator, it opens creative doors for those priced out of the Adobe ecosystem. The learning outcomes are modest but meaningful: removing objects, isolating sections, and inserting elements. These are foundational skills that, once mastered, empower users to enhance personal photos, create social media content, or support freelance gigs without financial strain.

While the course is undeniably brief, its clarity and practical focus make it a strong starting point. It won’t turn you into a professional retoucher, but it builds confidence and competence in basic digital manipulation. The instructor’s straightforward delivery and logical structure ensure that even absolute beginners can follow along. For under an hour of time, learners gain a toolkit they can immediately apply. When paired with deliberate practice and supplementary resources, this course becomes a springboard rather than a final destination. It’s recommended for beginners, hobbyists, or anyone curious about photo editing on a budget.

## How Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course Compares

| Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration |

| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |

| Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course | Udemy | 8.0/10 | All Levels | 48 minutes |

| Adobe Graphic Designer Professional Certificate Course | Coursera | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Fundamentals of Graphic Design Course | Coursera | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A |

| Graphic Design Specialization Course | Coursera | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A |

## Who Should Take Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course?

This course is best suited for learners with any experience level in graphic design. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced professional, the curriculum adapts to meet you where you are. The course is offered by Jeremy Shuback on Udemy, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate of completion that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers.

If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course.

### Career Outcomes

- Apply graphic design skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities

- Qualify for entry-level positions in graphic design and related fields

- Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers

- Add a certificate of completion credential to your LinkedIn and resume

- Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field

## More Graphic Design Courses on Udemy

Explore other highly rated courses in graphic design available on Udemy to expand your learning path:

- Learn to be an Animator. Part 1. "Good habits" Course 9.8/10

- Adobe After Effects CC – Motion Graphics Design & VFX Course 9.7/10

- Complete Graphics Design and Video Editing Masterclass Course 9.7/10

- Kinetic Typography in After Effects: Motion Graphics Course 9.7/10

- CorelDRAW for Beginners: Graphic Design in Corel Draw Course 9.7/10

- The Ultimate Adobe Firefly Masterclass 9.6/10

- Ableton Live 12 for Music Production: Quick Start Guide Course 9.6/10

- Project Photoshop: Customizing Photoshop Course 9.6/10

- Graphic Design Masterclass – Learn GREAT Design Course 9.6/10

- The Complete Graphic Design Theory for Beginners Course 9.6/10

## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms

Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated graphic design courses from other platforms cover similar ground:

- Adobe Graphic Designer Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 Coursera

- Fundamentals of Graphic Design Course 9.8/10 Coursera

- Graphic Design Specialization Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Introduction to Typography Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers Specialization Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Ideas from the History of Graphic Design Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Graphic Design Course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Adobe Graphic Designer: Design that Demands Attention Professional Certificate course 9.7/10 Coursera

- Adobe Content Creator 9.6/10 Coursera

- Xbox Graphic Designer Professional Certificate Course 9.5/10 Coursera

## More Courses from Jeremy Shuback

Jeremy Shuback offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings:

- Photoshop CS6 Crash Course 9.0/10

View all courses from Jeremy Shuback →

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## FAQs

What are the prerequisites for Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course?

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is designed for learners at any experience level. Whether you are just starting out or already have experience in Graphic Design, the curriculum is structured to accommodate different backgrounds. Beginners will find clear explanations of fundamentals while experienced learners can skip ahead to more advanced modules.

Does Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course offer a certificate upon completion?

Yes, upon successful completion you receive a certificate of completion from Jeremy Shuback. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Graphic Design can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development.

How long does it take to complete Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course?

The course takes approximately 48 minutes to complete. It is offered as a lifetime access course on Udemy, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably.

What are the main strengths and limitations of Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course?

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is rated 8.0/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: affordable alternative to expensive photo editing software; clear, concise instruction ideal for visual learners; hands-on techniques applicable to real-world projects. Some limitations to consider: very short total runtime limits depth of coverage; limited to pixelmator, which has fewer features than photoshop. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Graphic Design.

How will Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course help my career?

Completing Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course equips you with practical Graphic Design skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by Jeremy Shuback, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market.

Where can I take Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course and how do I access it?

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is available on Udemy, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is lifetime access, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on Udemy and enroll in the course to get started.

How does Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course compare to other Graphic Design courses?

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is rated 8.0/10 on our platform, placing it among the top-rated graphic design courses. Its standout strengths — affordable alternative to expensive photo editing software — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding.

What language is Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course taught in?

Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course is taught in English. Many online courses on Udemy also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction.

Is Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course kept up to date?

Online courses on Udemy are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. Jeremy Shuback has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate.

Can I take Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course as part of a team or organization?

Yes, Udemy offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build graphic design capabilities across a group.

What will I be able to do after completing Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course?

After completing Photo Editing on the Cheap: The Pixelmator Crash Course, you will have practical skills in graphic design that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your certificate of completion credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers.

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