By Philip Lawson

3D objects  Within Photoshop there exists a class of objects known as 3D objects.  Typically these are Fonts or Objects and each can be illuminated by a range of lighting sources and directions.  Shadows are automatically part of this feature.

Lighing Effects

Cast Shadow Action

Limitations  Such shadows are not “organic” that is: They do not soften with distance from the object They do not flow over other “apparent” surfaces They are not “masked” by foreground objects

Limitations

Organic Shadows  Creating organic shadows requires you to be Observant Artistic Have a working knowledge of Physics, Optics and Perspective Adept at using the “hand” tools in Photoshop, this is best achieved with a “tablet”

Organic Shadows 1  It is best to use an uncomplicated picture that has: Little in the way of “real” 3D topology Little in the way of “real” texture Little in the way of complex pattern or colouration A well defined light source

The Blue Dune

The Oryx  Whether the object to be “shadowed” is already present in the image is somewhat irrelevant, but it is quicker is if is already a “floater”.

Blue Dune and Oryx

The Shadow  Now need a Mask that roughly defines the object.  If the object is approximately broadside to the light source AND approximately broadside to you (the viewer) then the Mask can be derived from the object.  If not, then you have to use your artistic skills to draw a mask in Quickmask.

Selection  Select the object with either: The Lasso (hand or magnetic) The Wand By Colour By Contrast  Tidy the selection with Quickmask, but do not feather.

The Selection  Save the Selection (as an Alpha Channel)

Distort the Selection/Mask  Reload the selection and Distort

Distort the Selection/Mask  Modify to account for light source vs viewpoint

Apply the Mask as a Layer  Remove white area with magic wand and delete  Re-transform and position to get exact fit.

Blur the shadow  Use the radial blur tool and focus at the feet

Blur the shadow  This creates the appropriate fall of in edge detail and contrast.

Gradate the shadow  If necessary create a fall of in density with another Layer, the Gradient tool and a Lighten Blend

Order the Layer  And retouch the interfaces

Blend Shadow layer

Mask or correct the Oryx  Reload the Oryx Mask and Retouch or Feather if necessary, check alignment with Quickmask.

New Adjustment Layer  Create and Adjustment Layer with this selection to apply to the Oryx.

Adjust Oryx  Adjust the curves of the Oryx to suit the tone of light and the master image.

Blue Dune, Oryx and Shadow