Finally, we have come to the end of Chapter 6 in How to Cheat in Photoshop, 6th ed., by Steve Caplin. Next week I promise more Friday Challenges. However, there’s still more perspective to learn so let’s get to it.
Vanishing Point Filter, Part 1
This filter is something unique in computer software. It allows for a two-dimensional image to be moved, copied, and cloned in three-dimensional perspective.
While I can’t say my CS3 course didn’t mention this nifty filter, I can say it didn’t get much coverage. In fact, the only mention was a call-out box saying there was a filter that could be used for correcting the perspective of an object with multiple planes, such as adding a duplicated window to a building:
The original image in the upper left has lots of planes but none of them are square on. In the Chapter 6 tutorial, Caplin shows his readers how to clone the upstairs window in perspective.
First, the perspective grid is set up, using the Vanishing Point Filter, as seen in the upper right image. Next, the marquee tool is used to select the window, as seen in the bottom left image. Then, pressing the shift and Alt keys enables a copy of the window to be dragged to the left in perfect perspective.
Vanishing Point Filter, Part 2
Even more amazing, is that the perspective grid can be dragged to the side of the building. This enables the window copied, in perspective, to the side of the building too:
As seen on the left, the perspective grid is dragged around the corner. Then the window is duplicated using the same technique as before and dragged to the side of the building. On the right, Caplin has instructed the reader to insert an image file of graffiti, however this same technique could be used to add a logo or other image to a building.
Cropping in Perspective
Sometimes, instead of creating or manipulating perspective, you simply want to get rid of an existing perspective. It turns out the crop tool has a perspective check box. It turns an image that is in perspective at an angle to be cropped so that the angle is removed as seen below:
Originally, the picture was photographed at an angle to keep the flash from creating glare on the glass. The right image shows the perspective angle is removed after checking the perspective box on the crop tool and adjusting the crop boundaries accordingly.
A Piece of Cake
In the final tutorial of Chapter 6, Caplin once again uses a past Friday Challenge image. The Challenge was titled “A Piece of Cake” because Adobe had sent Caplin a cake on the 20th anniversary of Photoshop. Below is the original image and how I completed it:
The Challenge then, and in the tutorial, was to cut into the cake and show it with a piece missing. While Caplin did not supply the interior of the cake slice for the tutorial ( I searched for a suitable one online) he did supply the directions. This was far more assistance than the forum members originally received for this exercise, proving its sometimes wise to wait for the second slice.
Next: More Friday Challenge Fun