Out of Bounds Technique - Adobe Photoshop Tutorial

Summary

This tutorial walks viewers through the process of creating an out-of-bounds 3D effect in Photoshop. It covers key techniques such as duplicating layers, creating vector masks, and applying transformations to give a subject the appearance of leaping out of the frame. The video explains the use of the Marquee Tool, Gradient Tool, and Drop Shadow effects to add depth, alongside tips for refining edges and creating a seamless, dynamic image. The tutorial is designed for both beginners and those looking to enhance their Photoshop skills, with step-by-step guidance for a visually striking result.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 'Out of Bounds' technique in Photoshop creates a 3D look by manipulating layers and vector masks.
• 😀 The technique involves duplicating the base layer and creating a vector mask to work with the image.
• 😀 It's important to select an image with a leading edge that can extend outside the frame, such as a bird in flight.
• 😀 Creating a frame using the Marquee tool and filling it with white allows for a controlled 3D effect.
• 😀 To form a proper frame, modify and contract the selection, then delete the center to leave only the border.
• 😀 Using the 'Distort' function helps transform the frame to appear 3D by pulling certain edges in Photoshop.
• 😀 A vector mask lets you erase and add portions of the image non-destructively, giving flexibility during the editing process.
• 😀 Adding a gradient to the background enhances the 3D effect and helps create depth in the image.
• 😀 Fine-tuning is crucial—use smaller brushes for precise adjustments and to avoid erasing unintended parts of the image.
• 😀 Drop shadows can be added to the frame layer to enhance the 3D effect and give more dimension to the composition.
• 😀 The technique works well for various photo subjects, including scenery, people, or objects like a motorbike, adding a dynamic visual impact.

Q & A

What is the Out of Bounds technique in Photoshop?

The Out of Bounds technique is a creative method in Photoshop that gives a photograph a three-dimensional look by making elements appear as though they are extending beyond the image's frame.

What is the first step when starting the Out of Bounds technique?

The first step is to duplicate the original image layer, either by using the 'Duplicate Layer' option in the menu or by clicking the appropriate button in the Layers panel.

What is the purpose of creating a Vector Mask in the Out of Bounds technique?

A Vector Mask is used to control which parts of the image are visible and which are hidden. It helps in creating sharp, clean lines when you start to manipulate the image for the 3D effect.

How do you create a frame around the subject in the image?

You use the Square Marquee Tool to draw a frame around the subject (like the bird), ensuring that the main part of the subject, such as the head, remains inside the frame.

What action do you take after drawing the frame around the subject?

After drawing the frame, you fill it with white using the 'Edit > Fill' option and then contract the selection to shrink the frame by 30 pixels. Afterward, the center is deleted to create an empty frame.

What is the next step after creating the white frame?

After creating the white frame, you use the 'Edit > Transform > Distort' function to manipulate the frame into a 3D perspective. This allows you to make the frame appear as though it is extending out of the image.

Why is it important to use a black and white Vector Mask when working with the frame?

The black-and-white Vector Mask allows you to control visibility—black hides parts of the frame, while white adds areas back in. This helps in refining the edges and creating a more realistic 3D effect.

How do you fix mistakes when erasing areas with the paintbrush tool on the Vector Mask?

If you make a mistake by erasing too much, you can switch to the white color and paint back the missing areas. The Vector Mask ensures that your edits don't permanently alter the original image.

What is the purpose of adding a drop shadow to the frame in the final step?

Adding a drop shadow to the frame helps enhance the 3D effect by creating depth and separation between the subject and the background, making the image appear more dynamic and realistic.

Can you apply the Out of Bounds technique to other types of images, such as landscapes or people?

Yes, the Out of Bounds technique can be applied to a variety of images, including landscapes, people, or objects, as long as there is a clear 'leading edge' that appears to extend beyond the image, creating an illusion of depth.