Simple Method of Creating Spheres
Programs Used: Adobe Photoshop version 5+
Skill Level: Basic
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| This tutorials depicts a simple 3-4 step procedure in creating
spheres that contain a light source for that realistic 3D look. I am sure
there are a dozen different methods in creating these (eg. usage
of layer masks or filters) but I find this to be the easiest method, utilizing
the simplest of Photoshop skills. |
1. On a new 100x100 canvas (or on a new layer if you are creating
this on an existing canvas) use the elliptical marquee tool 
to draw a perfect cirlce (by holding Shift as you draw). |
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| 2. Select two different colors, the foreground color being the
color of the artificial light that will be shining on the sphere, and the
background color being that of the actual sphere itself. Here I have chosen
yellow and red: |
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Now select the Gradient Tool,
make sure that it has been set to a radial gradient
and apply a gradient from the top left towards the bottom right
hand side of the selected sphere. This is a trial and error process
in which it depends on how much of the 'light' you want to show
up. Here is my result:
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| 3. Create a new layer above this one, whilst still keeping the
circle selection, and fill in the new layer with black. Feather this selection
(Select -> Feather, or Ctrl-Alt-D) with a radius of 8 pixels. |
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4. Whilst still using the marquee tool, use the arrow keys
to move the selection up 6 pixels and left 6 pixels. Press delete. Merge
this layer onto the old layer by selecting Layer -> Merge Down or Ctrl-E.
Here is the final product:
Once merged, grouped into a set, or linked, you can drag this onto your
canvas.
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