Throwing Light On Dynamic Photoshop Drop Shadow!

A picture has more meaning when it has depth. Even a simple shadow has the ability to bring another dimension to the picture. The shadow can be created from any source of light. It can be shallow or reflective or deep throated! It provides unique visual interaction and the eyes stay on it a little longer…just like it does to the original.

 

Here's throwing light on dynamic Photoshop drop shadow.

 

Casting a shadow is a little tricky for any artist, especially when a source of light has to be created. It is easier for a photographer as he gets the natural source but for a graphic artist, it is a challenge. He has to do it in the editing studio. Hence throwing light on dynamic Photoshop drop shadow itself is an art form. With the combination of the silhouette and the gradient, wonders can be achieved. And when there is consistency in the images then it looks perfect. Since many programs have this tool it is abused. Hence it needs careful handling. It is also interesting to note that a graphic programmer maybe dubbed as a pro or a beginner or even a hacker by the way he creates a silhouette! The pro naturally avoids the mistakes of the other two types. He is able to create a 2-d or 3-d image successfully with the tool and his technique. When the technique is applied to the websites, it helps the client's business to soar.

 

How to use the drop shadow technique effectively?

 

To be really frank, if it is not needed in the image avoid it. It is the best option. But if a spatial metaphor needs to be created then adapt the best techniques. Is the image flat, boring, unattractive with bland colors? Yes then usedrop shadowand gradients.

 

Most of us chose the visual code to decipher objects in the real world.  We perceive the natural daylight and shadow and expect the same in the digital world. Drop shadow helps to create the illusion of light and dark in programming. They offer a spatial visual treat of the object and the human senses. When the artist creates the right illusion it can make the design/image/text more beautiful. In the digital images the shadow propels the image to float or pop out. To make it look more realistic, gradients can appear near the path of the drop shadow (of the object). Closer gradients are lighter than the ones further away (they appear darker, as the outline looms).  This can happen with a single source of lighting. Sometimes multiple sources of lighting are used. It creates complexities and the designer has to deftly use his skill to devise the silhouette.  This is where his skill comes handy. That is why photo-editing companies have senior designers for such jobs. Despite the fact that the job is complex, it need not cost a bomb to the client. There are offshore firms, which can handle these jobs for lower fees. They are also able to provide quick samples.

About the Author

Atiqur Sumon
Chief Executive, DTP & SEO Expert at Outsource Experts Ltd.
Drop Shadow |Photoshop Drop Shadow |Photo Editing Company