Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
New and improved 3D features
The 3D features in Photoshop are extensive enough to write another topic, but in this
section, you will be introduced to some of the important features that can help you i nd
the tools you need when working in 3D. Keep in mind that Lesson 13 includes a step-by-
step exercise to help you get started using this incredibly intense feature.
Some of the new 3D features are described next.
OpenGL is now required
OpenGL is now required in Photoshop CS6. Although OpenGL is the industry's most
widely used, supported, and best documented 2D/3D graphics Application Program
Interface (API), it could stop some of your experimenting before you begin. Check to
see if you have the option available by selecting Edit > Preferences > Performance. If
Use Graphics Processor is an option, you can use 3D; if it is grayed out, you may need
to update your hardware or software to work in 3D using Photoshop CS6. Find more
information about OpenGL and Photoshop at Search for OpenGL Support. On Adobe's
site, you i nd information about preferences that you can change, as well as information on
how to check your video card drivers.
Better tool unification
Now in Photoshop CS6, the 3D environment has its own workspace, making it easy to i nd
the tools you need when you want them. Enter this workspace by selecting Window > 3D.
3D Widgets
In Photoshop CS6, 3D widgets are automatically enabled to help you get a better sense
of your 3D environment and perform tasks such as directly manipulating your shadows.
Once you have created a 3D object, you can Shift and drag to change the light of the
object and also its shadow.
3D Merge improved
In Photoshop CS6, you can now merge more than two 3D layers; the handling is better
for 3D layers with dif erent scales and positions.
The best way to i nd out what works with 3D is to experiment with your i les. If 3D is
new to you, select a layer and then right-click (Windows) or Control+click (Mac OS) and
select Postcard. You are now in the 3D workspace where you can experiment with various
Properties in the Properties panel, as well as options in the 3D panel.
As mentioned, this Lesson has been an introduction to some of the new Photoshop CS6
features. If you have skipped to this lesson for a quick peek at “what's new,” make sure you
start with Lesson 1 of this topic to i nd out how to integrate many of the new features into
your workl ow.
