Shadowing...

[Pachimac]

I am interested in trying to find shadow actions that help artsy type pages look dimensional. I can do shadows that help with depth and realism, but I've never been able to figure out how to do it on my own...like this one:



See how the shadows really show that some items are much closer than others?

I typically do these type of shadows. They're dimensional, but they don't seem layered, if that makes sense.

 

[bcgal00]

What I see when looking at the sample and then your page, is that your shadows are darker and closer to the element. The AJ page has shadows that are bigger and softer. Apply your drop shadow, then double click the shadow style in the layers palette to open up the layer style box and change the distance, spread and/or size to create a larger, softer shadow. This might give you the look you want.

When you create the shadow you like, you can then save it as a new preset (in PS, not sure about other programs). Hope this helps.

 

[Heidi1472]

I would love to learn how to save a preset shadow!! PSE 19 but soon to be 2020 if I can wrap my brain around upgrading and the learning curve that it will have.

And Susan, I have no idea other than what Rae suggested. I use a Tracy Shroud, I think, set of shadows and then tweak them from there.

 

[dodgeladee]

My favorite shadows are actually on the LO's from Cindy Schneider. I open one of her templates, and then just copy the layer style.

 

[FormbyGirl]

I love the shadows in this set. They make shadowing so much easier. They are labeled alpha, button, staple, lace, butterfly, etc. The flowers have multiple layers, so you can vary the depth. The ones for curly string are awesome. They also come in two directions. You can change them after they have been applied, if you like. I love them.