Continuing our theme of creative type …..
In my previous blog I showed you how to create type filled with an image and promised I would continue with the next step of adding further enhancements such as a stroke (key line/border), outer and inner shadows etc. So here is how it’s done……..
1) Firstly, let’s take an image and process it as before, merging the layers so that we only have type sitting on a transparent (indicated by the chequered pattern) background layer
- Golden flowers start image
2) In the Layer palette, double-click on the text layer and an additional box will appear. At the top on the left hand side under the word “Style” you will see that it defaults to “Blending Options Default”, which will be highlighted in blue. Below this are a number of styles from which you can choose and then tweak as desired.
3) Click on the one at the bottom that says “Stroke”. A new dialogue box will appear on the right hand side.
Any colour stroke may be added. I often like to chose either plain black or pick a colour from the image itself to ensure co-ordination.
4) The next thing to do is experiment with the settings within each of the dialogue boxes. I like to use thin strokes around images as they look smarter (something between 1 and 10 pixels dependent upon the size of the original image). If you want a bold look to make the wording really stand out then go as high as you need.
Adding a stroke
Herewith the settings I used for the above image.
- The “Stroke” box in detail
5) Now select the drop shadow on the left hand side. Again you can choose any colour of shadow that you want, the angle, the profile, the opacity and more! My favourite setting for the angle is about 130 degrees which will drop the shadow to the South East side.
Adding a drop shadow
6) Now add the bevel and emboss (One of the most impressive I think is the inner bevel set on the chisel hard setting)
Adding an inner bevel, chisel hard and contour shape of your choice
7) Try changing the contour and an amazing array of new effects will be produced.
Changing the profile
As you have probably already deducted I have only shown a few of the settings so far. There are many more to check out and experiment with: Colour, Gradient and Colour overlays etc. We’ll use some of these on another blog.
If you do have any questions about any of these tutorials please do feel free to give us a call or why not book up on one of our Photoshop courses and improve your skills the fast track method.