By Philip Lawson

3D objects3D 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 EffectsLighing Effects

Cast Shadow ActionCast Shadow Action

LimitationsLimitations

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

LimitationsLimitations

LimitationsLimitations

Organic ShadowsOrganic Shadows

Creating organic shadows requires you to beObservantArtisticHave a working knowledge of Physics, Optics and PerspectiveAdept at using the “hand” tools in Photoshop, this is best achieved with a “tablet”

Organic Shadows 1Organic Shadows 1

It is best to use an uncomplicated picture that has:

Little in the way of “real” 3D topologyLittle in the way of “real” textureLittle in the way of complex pattern or colourationA well defined light source

The Blue DuneThe Blue Dune

The OryxThe 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 OryxBlue Dune and Oryx

The ShadowThe 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.

SelectionSelection

Select the object with either:The Lasso (hand or magnetic)The WandBy ColourBy Contrast

Tidy the selection with Quickmask, but do not feather.

The SelectionThe Selection

Save the Selection (as an Alpha Channel)

Distort the Selection/MaskDistort the Selection/Mask

Reload the selection and Distort

Distort the Selection/MaskDistort the Selection/Mask

Modify to account for light source vs viewpoint

Apply the Mask as a LayerApply the Mask as a Layer

Remove white area with magic wand and delete Re-transform and position to get exact fit.

Blur the shadowBlur the shadow

Use the radial blur tool and focus at the feet

Blur the shadowBlur the shadow

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

Gradate the shadowGradate the shadow If necessary create a fall of in density with another

Layer, the Gradient tool and a Lighten Blend

Order the LayerOrder the Layer

And retouch the interfaces

Blend Shadow layerBlend Shadow layer

Mask or correct the OryxMask or correct the Oryx

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

New Adjustment LayerNew Adjustment Layer

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

Adjust OryxAdjust Oryx

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

Blue Dune, Oryx and ShadowBlue Dune, Oryx and Shadow