Layer from Shadow CS3

[cats4jan]

I found a tutorial for creating a layer from a shadow:

1. Put a shadow on your png
2. Right Click on the effects area of the layer in the layers palette and choose "create layer" This puts your shadow on it's own layer.

(I chose to use a colored shadow, but that has no effect on this tutorial's outcome)

In playing with this option, what I realized is that you can accomplish this same effect if you make a selection from your graphic, open a new layer, fill with color, and reduce opacity.

For those with PSE who I don't think can change the color of their shadow - using the selection/fill/opacity offers more versatility.

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/18ufUGHZjpvB7tGq9kcKLy5jsjPT8q_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=18ufUGHZjpvB7tGq9kcKLy5jsjPT8q)

[Laura]

Very cool, Janice. I use the other option a lot and I really like your creative option, too. Thanks for the info. I know I will use that quite often. I smiled when I saw those little flamingos! I had so much fun making them, glad you're using them. hey, when you get to Florida, you'll have to make lots of them.:rofl2:

[cats4jan]

Another thought? Wouldn't those flamingo shadows make cute brushes?

[coppercurls]

You can also add a bit of blur to that fill, so the shadow won't have a hard edge.
I use the first method, that way I can manipulate my shadows.

[Maree]

Awesome thank you :) I play around with shadows lots and finally learned how to save them for future use lol

[coppercurls]

Awesome thank you :) I play around with shadows lots and finally learned how to save them for future use lol

Do you mean by saving as a new preset? or is there another trick I need to know?

[Maree]

I save mine as a style I use cs5..
Its just easier to click through those till I have the right shadowing or adjust it a little if its not quite what I am looking for..