Creating a Collage Style Post Cover in Adobe Photoshop
Introduction to the Lesson
The lesson focuses on creating a collage-style cover for a post using Adobe Photoshop, building on tools learned previously.
Suggestions for inspiration can be found on Pinterest, which offers various ideas for background removal and text addition.
Background Removal Techniques
To remove the background from an image, use the "Select Subject" feature and then apply a mask to isolate the object.
An alternative method is to select only the background by pressing 'C' and then applying adjustments as needed.
Adjusting Canvas Size
Two methods are discussed for creating a square post: editing an existing canvas or creating a new one.
When adjusting image size, ensure that the lock icon is disabled to avoid proportional resizing issues.
Creating New Canvas
A new canvas can be created with specific dimensions (e.g., 1880 x 1080), allowing users to drag their images onto this new workspace.
Users can resize images using 'Ctrl + T' while holding Shift to maintain proportions during adjustment.
Color Selection and Background Filling
The Eyedropper tool ('I') allows users to select colors from images; this color can then be used as a background fill.
Users can create new layers for filling backgrounds with selected colors or shapes, enhancing design flexibility.
Advanced Layer Techniques
Another method involves drawing rectangles and adjusting their fill colors directly within layer settings for more control over design elements.
Using masks allows users to refine visibility of layers without permanently altering original images.
Creating Artistic Elements in Photoshop
Introduction to the Project
The speaker discusses the process of creating artistic elements, specifically focusing on a black and white eye design. They emphasize the importance of layering and organization in Photoshop.
Working with Eyes
To create an eye graphic, the speaker demonstrates selecting an eye from a photo using the elliptical selection tool and copying it into their project.
The speaker explains how to desaturate the image to achieve a black-and-white effect for aesthetic purposes.
Refining Shapes and Layers
Techniques for refining shapes are discussed, including using masks and brushes to adjust edges. A hard brush is recommended for sharper lines.
The creation of a white background layer beneath the eye is demonstrated, highlighting how to name layers for better organization.
Drawing Straight Lines
The speaker shows how to draw straight lines by holding down Shift while clicking at different points, allowing for geometric shapes.
They mention using either masks or erasers to refine shapes further without losing original data.
Grouping Layers
Instructions on grouping layers are provided, making it easier to move multiple elements simultaneously. This enhances workflow efficiency.
Text Creation and Collage Simulation
The focus shifts towards creating text elements as part of a collage simulation. The speaker prepares by hiding other layers that may obstruct visibility.
Working with Shapes in Photoshop
An overview of shape tools in Photoshop is given, explaining how rectangles can be created with fill colors and stroke settings adjusted through properties panels.
Customizing Shapes
Details about customizing rectangle corners through pixel adjustments are shared, emphasizing flexibility in design choices.
Additional Shape Tools
Various shape tools such as circles (created by holding Shift), triangles, hexagons, and lines are introduced along with their customization options like stroke thickness and color.
Using the Pen Tool
Creating Shapes and Text in Design Software
Using the Pen Tool for Custom Shapes
The speaker discusses creating lines with a pen tool, emphasizing the ability to stretch and manipulate shapes by dragging points.
The pen tool allows for drawing various forms like clouds or splashes, highlighting its versatility in creating non-standard shapes.
Users can delete points by hovering over them; a minus sign appears to indicate deletion, while a plus sign creates new points.
Adjusting the size of control handles (or "whiskers") is possible using specific arrow tools, allowing for creative shape manipulation.
The importance of practice with the pen tool is stressed as users learn to master its capabilities.
Creating Rectangles and Adjusting Properties
The speaker transitions to creating rectangles, noting that they should have no stroke initially set in the parameters.
Users can adjust rectangle sizes freely without holding shift, which allows for more flexible design adjustments.
After creating a rectangle, text can be added inside it; this requires selecting the text tool from the left panel or pressing 'T' on the keyboard.
Working with Text Elements
A text area is created by clicking and dragging; if text doesn't appear, it may be due to an oversized font relative to the area defined.
If text is too large for its designated area, resizing either the text or area will help display it correctly.
Key parameters such as font color and alignment are adjustable through upper panels; black is chosen as an example color here.
Font Selection and Size Adjustment
Various font options are available; users can hover over fonts in a dropdown menu to preview changes before selection.
Font sizes can be adjusted manually or via mouse drag; specific values like 50pt can also be input directly for precision.
Not all fonts support bold or italic styles; users must check individual font properties when designing their texts.
Spacing Between Letters
Letter spacing (tracking) adjustments are discussed; increasing this value spreads letters apart significantly based on user needs.
How to Adjust Text Formatting and Create Shadows in Design
Adjusting Line Spacing and Font Size
The speaker discusses the issue of excessive line spacing, currently set at 179, which affects text visibility.
A recommendation is made to adjust line spacing to a size closer to the font size (e.g., if the font size is 50, use 55 or 60 for better readability).
Text Formatting Options
Various text formatting options are introduced, including converting all letters to uppercase and applying bold or italic styles.
The speaker mentions less common formatting features like underlining and strikethrough text, noting that most users prefer pre-designed fonts with these attributes.
Creating Shadows for Images
The process of creating shadows beneath images is explained, highlighting two methods: manually drawing a shadow or using effects.
To apply a drop shadow effect, the user must double-click on the image layer to access various effects settings.
Customizing Shadow Effects
Settings for shadow color and angle are discussed; changing these parameters alters how the shadow appears relative to the object.
Distance settings control how far away the shadow appears from the object; adjustments can create either close or distant shadows.
Additional Effects and Final Touches
The speaker explains options for blending modes that affect how colors mix with background elements.
Other effects such as outlines and glows can be added to objects; users are encouraged to experiment with different settings for creative outcomes.
