Making The Gradient

[Ward Grant]

I have a basic understanding of the Element tools, but I have a puzzlement on when to use Gradient Tool over a Gradient Layer. It seems to me the Layer gives more control. If I only want to apply it to a portion, I can mask the area I don't want to be effected. Is this one of those "six of one; half dozen of another" things that Elements offers or am I missing some technique here?

[Carbone]

I just uploaded a short video...

http://homepage.mac.com/carbmac/captures/PhotoshopElements051.mov

First example, you can create a simple new layer, then make a selection, and fill this selection with a gradient.

Second example, you create a new gradient layer, then choose your gradient and click on OK. Option (ALT) click on the white thumbnail, then use your brush tool to hide part of the gradient layer (Black hides, White reveals). As you paint, you'll only see black. Once you're done, Option - click again and the black areas will be your pictures (because the gradient is hidden with black).

Hope this helps!

Ray

[Ward Grant]

Ray,
Thanks for the video, but I have a question (not trying to be hard-headed or sound ungrateful).

In your video, you made a square selection and then applied a gradient using the gradient tool. You then removed this, applied a gradient layer and then made free-hand painting to reveal part of the painting. So you created two different effects.

However, if you used the same technique for both, would the results be the same? Make a selection and apply gradient tool or apply a layer mask and then mask the same square area? (Yes, I'll do this on my images and see the differences-I don't expect you to do all the work):)

My preference (and the answer may just be preferences) is the Gradient Layer allows you to adjust the Angle and Scale so you can tweak the effect as you adjust your image. I don't see these controls in the Gradient Tool .

Have others found a scenerio where one is better than the other?

[Ellen]

Another great movie Ray.
I haven't been able to visit here for a while and my eye was caught by this thread. Ward's question was one I have wondered about and didn't know how to frame the question.
A satisfied customer yet again!
Thanks!

[Daviskw]

Hi Ward

Maybe I am misunderstanding the question but the big advantage of the Gradient adjustment layer is the option to go back and change it.

Butch

[Wendy]

Hi Ward ...

The fill layer just gives you more flexibility ... in the same way that an adjustment layer does. So if you need to change things then you can do ... I have to admit that I tend to just use a new layer and put my gradients on that.


Wendy

[Carbone]

Ward,

The others have answered already. As for me I usually use an adjustment layer, whenever I can, because I can go back and change it. Also, in the video, if you change your mind, you simply paint with white (in the layer's mask, the icon to the right) to reveal the gradient again.

Ray

[Ward Grant]

Thanks to everyone for answering. Ray, a special thanks for taking the time to make the video. I, too, use the Layer method more oftener (oh, wait, that is incorrect English--most oftenest), primarily as I can adjust the effect.

[Carbone]

Ward.. you could give me lessons in English.. :D :D

Ray