Key Concept of Photoshop Drop Shadow
Photoshop drop shadow is the work of adding natural shadow effect to an image. Some basic knowledge is must for a DTP before working with this service. Photoshop drop shadow effect makes an image natural to look at but the opposite may happen if it's not applied properly. It can damage an image rather than enhancement when it doesn't match with the existing light effect of an image. I am using the word 'natural' before addressing drop shadow frequently because it ensures the natural existence of any object in a photo.
Drop shadow service is mostly applied to product photos. Once the product is cut out from its original background by applying clipping path or any other cutting-out tools like masking or quick selection technique, it is set on a new background. On the newly used background the object appears as if it's hanging on air. Adding natural shadow to the image creates the sense of its connection with the newly used background.
Before applying drop shadow the image editor has to assume the light source of the image. It will help the designer to imagine how the shadow should be created against that light source. The fact can be more clarified by an analogy. Suppose a cowboy is taking rest under a tree while his cattle are gazing on the field. It's morning and I am sure he has taken his position on the western side of the tree. Now, the question may arise. Why is he taking western part instead of any other? Yes, it's because the sun is shining from the east and the cowboy finds shadow on western side. As the day matures he changes his position to be staying under the shadow of the tree. Don't exclaim!!!! The shadow is not walking rather it's the sun that is running from one angle to another and the shadow positioning is changing lineally.
Generally, the product shot is taken inside a photography studio in which lighting is a key concern. The light adjustment of the studio determines how much the photo will be lively. In case of outdoor shots the photographer gets the light from sun. In both cases a sort of shadow is captured naturally while taking the shot. But the original shadow can be or can't be perfect for its final use. Imperfect shadow effect with the image loses its professional appeal. It happens out of imbalance of light while taking the shot. Here, we, the photo editors work. An experienced DTP creates a new shadow effect that will suit best with the photo. It has to be natural and flawless. The shadow positioning, hardness or softness determines the perfection of the setting of it. A website owner or a e-commerce site will never allow an image that is not perfect in terms of its appearance which is largely affected by shadow effect.
In some cases, the original shadow is kept after cutting out the image from its original background. In this case the light source supposed to be perfect that creates a perfect shadow while shooting the photo. However, the image users prefer adding natural drop shadow to his or her images instead of keeping the original shadow for final use in most cases. We must be able to assume that, how much expertise is needed to bring the desired, professional look of an image while creating the shadow effect. The procedure of accomplishing this task is very easy in Photoshop but the professionalism lies elsewhere. Experience and creative sense make a designer successful in this regard.
Drop shadow service is mostly applied to product photos. Once the product is cut out from its original background by applying clipping path or any other cutting-out tools like masking or quick selection technique, it is set on a new background. On the newly used background the object appears as if it's hanging on air. Adding natural shadow to the image creates the sense of its connection with the newly used background.
Before applying drop shadow the image editor has to assume the light source of the image. It will help the designer to imagine how the shadow should be created against that light source. The fact can be more clarified by an analogy. Suppose a cowboy is taking rest under a tree while his cattle are gazing on the field. It's morning and I am sure he has taken his position on the western side of the tree. Now, the question may arise. Why is he taking western part instead of any other? Yes, it's because the sun is shining from the east and the cowboy finds shadow on western side. As the day matures he changes his position to be staying under the shadow of the tree. Don't exclaim!!!! The shadow is not walking rather it's the sun that is running from one angle to another and the shadow positioning is changing lineally.
Generally, the product shot is taken inside a photography studio in which lighting is a key concern. The light adjustment of the studio determines how much the photo will be lively. In case of outdoor shots the photographer gets the light from sun. In both cases a sort of shadow is captured naturally while taking the shot. But the original shadow can be or can't be perfect for its final use. Imperfect shadow effect with the image loses its professional appeal. It happens out of imbalance of light while taking the shot. Here, we, the photo editors work. An experienced DTP creates a new shadow effect that will suit best with the photo. It has to be natural and flawless. The shadow positioning, hardness or softness determines the perfection of the setting of it. A website owner or a e-commerce site will never allow an image that is not perfect in terms of its appearance which is largely affected by shadow effect.
In some cases, the original shadow is kept after cutting out the image from its original background. In this case the light source supposed to be perfect that creates a perfect shadow while shooting the photo. However, the image users prefer adding natural drop shadow to his or her images instead of keeping the original shadow for final use in most cases. We must be able to assume that, how much expertise is needed to bring the desired, professional look of an image while creating the shadow effect. The procedure of accomplishing this task is very easy in Photoshop but the professionalism lies elsewhere. Experience and creative sense make a designer successful in this regard.
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