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Shadows in Perspective
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By Rick Wetzel
Too often the beginning Photoshop user relies on Drop Shadow to create a little drama and realism. In this tutorial, we will consider the light source and place a shadow in perspective. I started with these two images.
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image courtesy AbelStock.com
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Image - Patterns & Textures from Portugal |
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STEP 1
I wanted to combine these two photographs and create a convincing graphic effect.
The stock image from AbleStock came with a mask which allowed me to quickly knock out the white background . If you make your own mask, be sure to save the path...you'll need it later.
I placed each image on their own layer. After scaling each image (Edit>Transform>Scale), I distorted the cobblestone photo and put it into perspective (Edit>Transform>Perspective). You can read more about this technique in an earlier tutorial (MonthTip6).
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STEP 2
Create a new top layer. Reselect the knock out path and fill with black.
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STEP 3
With the transform command. edit>transform>scale, select the middle handle and drag the selection box down. We want to compress the shadow to simulate overhead light..
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STEP 4
Drag the shadow layer behind the cyclist layer and above the cobblestone street layer. Use a 2 pixel Gaussian Blur and dial down the opacity to about 30.
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STEP 5
To complete the tutorial, I created a new background layer and filled tan.
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