What is Drop Shadow
Drop shadow is a necessary
effect in the graphics world. It is an effect created by Photoshop that
resembles the natural shadow of any product or person. As a natural law any solid substance will
create its own shadow when placed against light. By applying drop shadow, a
dark shadow like effect can be added to any product/person that needs it.
Why we will need drop
shadow?
Drop shadow serves a lot
of purposes. It makes any product look more natural. If we remove the
background of any product, or place the product on a newer background, it might
appear unnatural. Usually the product will not fit in the new surface unless
some editing works are done. Drop shadow is one of those works that will make
the product appear realistic in the new surface.
When we place any product
on white background for ecommerce purposes, it looks flat on the surface. An
additional drop shadow will make it look natural. The object will appear a bit
elevated from the surface. For some type of products drop shadow is applicable.
Such as tables, chair, cell phone, tree, people and so on. And for some other type
of products a reflection effect is needed. Mostly those products are shiny. Products
like ornaments, glasses, jewelry falls in to this category.
Difference between drop
shadow and cast shadow
Though they are both
identical, still there are differences between these two types of shadows. Drop
shadow is applicable if the created shadow is going to be horizontal. Just like
a shadow under a sofa. Drop shadow is applicable for texts too. On the other
hand if the shadow is going to be something vertical than cast shadow is
applicable rather than drop shadow. For instance a shadow of a standing person,
tree, lamp post or something alike.
In this article we will
show how to create drop shadow and cast shadow with Photoshop in easy steps. We
will also show how to adjust and fix the new shadow so it fits the product and
the background perfectly.
How to create drop shadow
Step 1
In the first step we need
to create the drop shadow of the product. For this, go to the Layer Panel and
select the layer style button. Then select Drop Shadow. By this, a drop
shadow will be created. But it will not appear natural or integrated with the
images. We have to do some additional work to make it natural.
First we need to modify
the color of the shadow. The selection of the color is very important for a
natural drop shadow. You have to consider a number of things before you select
the right color. If the product is placed away from the surface, then the
shadow will be of lighter color. If the product is closer to the surface, the
color will be deeper. Also if there are more objects in that surface then check
the color of their shadow. Try to match it as much as possible.
From the drop shadow
dialogue box, select the black rectangle. You will find it beside Blend mode. A
color box will appear and it will allow you to select your desired color.
You have to modify the
‘Size’. It will allow you to adjust the softness of the shadow. Again you have
to think and determine the softness of the drop shadow according to the
context. When you are done, click OK to apply changes.
Please read the full article: Drop shadow service
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