Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Preparing the Image Layers
We are now ready to prepare our images before adding them as image layers to our book
cover project. We will start with the main image.
We will isolate the dancer from the background of the original photo in Chapter 11 when we
work with
Selection Tools
and
Layer Masks
. For now, we will use that isolated image to
create an image layer.
I started by creating a new file that is 9 inches by 9 inches at 300 ppi (
Figure 56
). This is
the approximate size of the area that the image layer will need to fill. I then created a Black
& White
Radial Gradient
and placed the isolated dancer on a layer above a radial gradient
layer. After moving the image around for a bit, I finally picked a location for the dancer
relative to the gradient.
One of the wonderful things about layers is that you can move any layer relative to the other
layers. Thus, an object can be precisely positioned relative to other objects. When the
Move
Tool
(first tool on the tool bar) is selected, you can use your mouse to position the active lay-
er relative to the other layers. Also, the arrow keys of your keyboard can be used to “nudge”
objects into place.
