Do you want to give your product images a more realistic look? There are quite a few things you can do in this case, but going with the shadow effect can always help you make the images even more realistic. Now, the question is, how will you perform the task?
To make the shadow effect work for your product images, you need to use advanced tools like Adobe Photoshop. Also, to have the output that professionals can generate, you need to have enough practice and a clear idea of how image editing works.
But no worries! In this blog, we’ll let you know how you can perform the task of shadowing in Adobe Photoshop more comprehensively.
What Is the Shadow Effect in Product Photos?
You know what a shadow is, right? The shadow effect is all about implementing a drop shadow in the product images. The purpose behind this type of image editing is to make the product images appear more realistic. We see the use of the shadow effect on a large scale, especially in the field of e-commerce.
Advanced photo editing tools like Adobe Photoshop are used to introduce shadow effects to the product images. This allows the creation of shadow effects regardless of the product images.
We’ll come back to this shortly. Depending on the background in which your product images appear, you need to choose the preferred tools of Adobe Photoshop to complete the job.
Do you know there are different forms of shadow effects that you can implement using Adobe Photoshop? Well, some of the most popular types of shadow effects are;
- Drop shadow.
- Reflection shadow.
- Floating shadow.
- Natural shadow.
- Artistic shadow and more.
Now, the question is, based on the product images, what type of shadow effect should you choose? You can test different shadow effects and choose or implement one that best matches the product presentation.
Why Should You Bring Shadow Effect for Product Photos?
There are many reasons why you use a shadow effect for product images. And from a business point of view, you can’t simply deny the importance of this particular image editing technique. Now, let’s look at some valid reasons for choosing the shadow effect.
Enhanced the Visual Appeal of Your Product Images
One of the most prominent reasons businesses worldwide show interest in drop shadows and other shadow effects is that they can enhance the overall appearance of product images.
Look, people online don’t have the luxury of judging products without visualizing the images of the products. So, it always makes sense to highlight every single detail of your product images. When you implement the drop shadow product images, the overall look of the product images is always enhanced.
Improved Product Presentation
Improved product presentation is a must to drive the expected number of sales. But how do you ensure the goal? In this case, it is always a better option to use the shadow effect to improve the product presentation on a large scale.
Beyond that, what shadow effect does for product images is that it can create a mood, which is essential when enhancing the product presentation. Consistent branding and clear product information guide customers. Effective packaging design creates a positive first impression. By prioritizing these elements, businesses can elevate their product offerings and drive customer satisfaction.
Increased Conversion
At the end of the day, it is all about driving more and more sales within a specific period of time. How do you increase the expected sales then? It is important to emerge from the need to buy products among your potential customers or targeted audience. At the end of the month, it is important to meet the monthly sales goal for your business.
Bring Versatility
You have to bring different product variations on the card in order to make the product images work for your business. Now when you implement the shadow effect with your product images, this ensures you provide the versatility you potential customers or targeted audience wants from your business.
How to Add Shadow Effect in Adobe Photoshop?
You don’t need to be an expert in Adobe Photoshop in order to perform the task of drop shadow image editing. All you need to know is to have a basic understanding of the tools that are required in order to perform the task.
Step 01: Isolate the Products
At first, it is important to isolate the products from the actual background. Now in order to perform the task, you need to use the Pen Tool out there.
But only having the tool is not enough; it is also important to rightly use the tool for better outcomes. Not only that, you should also create a new layer for the product by copying and pasting the selection. Lastly, you have to delete the layer.
Step 02: Create a New Background
To establish a visually appealing scene for your product, create a new layer beneath the product layer. Fill this layer with a background color that complements your product and the overall aesthetic you aim to achieve. This background layer serves as the foundation upon which your product will be showcased.
Step 3: Select a Shadow Color
To make your product pop, choose a shadow color that’s a touch darker than your background. This subtle difference adds depth and realism to your image, making it look more professional. You can either use a darker shade of your background color or go for a classic neutral like black or dark gray.
Step 4: Create the Drop Shadow Effect
Let’s apply a realistic drop shadow to your product photograph to make it look more professional. Using the right-click menu, pick “Blending Options,” then “Drop Shadow.” Control the shadow’s appearance by adjusting its size, softness, direction, distance, and blackness. By perfecting these nuances, you’ll produce a shadow that looks natural and draws attention to your goods.
Step 5: Refine the Shadow (Optional)
For a more polished look, you can refine the shadow manually. Create a new layer below your product layer and use a soft brush with the shadow color to paint the shadow’s details. Adjust the layer’s opacity and blend mode to integrate it with the background seamlessly. This extra step can help create a more natural and customized shadow effect.
Outline
Adding a drop shadow in Photoshop can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your product photos. By carefully adjusting the shadow’s opacity, blur, angle, and distance, you can create a realistic, professional look that highlights your product. This simple yet effective technique can elevate your product photography and make your products stand out.