December 14, 2021

The 12 Best Photoshop Actions for Creating 3D Effects

December 14, 2021March 4, 2022 Jennifer Wilson Webdesign Tips

When creating a new digital art project, it’s vital to have the right tools on hand to complete the job. Sometimes, that means software. Other times, that means specific tools within said software. And if you’re looking to create 3D effects in your work, Photoshop actions might just be the thing you need most.

What follows is a concise collection of Photoshop actions that streamline the process for creating 3D effects. Add depth to text. Add shadows and depth of field. Create isometric effects. No matter what end goal you have for your artwork, these actions simplify creating a 3D look, which could very well free up your time for other important tasks.

No more delays. Let’s get into the collection.

More Photoshop Actions:

Free Photoshop Actions:

3D Isometric Photoshop Action

This 3D Isometric Photoshop action makes it easy to transform text, vector-based shapes, smart objects, layer groups, and pixel layers into images that appear as though they are real 3D objects. This action works in two different directions and includes 12 shadow sizes, 10 extrusion sizes, a choice over light and shadow directions, and more.

Conceptum 3D Sketch Photoshop Action

Here’s another fantastic option. The Concept 3D Sketch Photoshop Action turns any photograph you want into a technical sketch that preserves 3D elements. It can work on any image of an object and creates a highly-detailed graphic that you can use in any number of situations. It comes with a full tutorial as well.

3D Text Effect Photoshop Action

The 3D Text Effect Photoshop Action is another text effect that works to transform your graphics into realistic-looking 3D objects. The results preserve full detail and color and can be tweaked based on extrusion direction and size, shadow and light direction and size, custom colors and fonts, and more. A full PDF help file is included so getting started is easy.

Anaglyph 3D Photoshop Action

Give your artwork an old-style stereoscopic 3D look with this Anaglyph 3D Photoshop Action. It adds this effect to your photos with a single click and the end result actually works with real 3D glasses. It comes with 8 different actions and it doesn’t destroy your original image in the process.

3D Effect Photoshop Actions

Here’s another great option for adding a 3D effect to your images. This one gives your image the appearance of stereoscopic 3D with just a few clicks. It automatically creates layer groups and is non-destructive so your original image remains intact. It also comes with a text file that guides you through the whole process.

3D Text Creator Actions

The 3D Text Creator Actions consists of a whopping 65 separate actions you can use to turn text layers into 3D text graphics. They work in four directions, can be used to create solid, flat, or translucent 3D text, and include five outline styles. All layers are fully editable and these actions are non-destructive.

3D Dispersion Photoshop Action

What an interesting effect this is! The 3D Dispersion Photoshop Action works by taking your images and making them appear as though they’ve broken apart into tiny three-dimensional pieces and said pieces are flying away. This dispersion effect can be applied quickly to your photos and you can select from four different directions of movement.

Animated 3D Parallax Duotone Action

The Animated 3D Parallax Duotone Action works by creating a 3D stereoscopic GIF. It works by creating a looping animation out of two layers. Other features include 25 colorscripts, a thumbnail color preview, fully editable layers, and a quick start guide.

Gold 3D Text Effect Photoshop Action

Giving your text a shiny gold effect has never been easier thanks to the Gold 3D Text Effect Photoshop Action. This one provides a realistic result that’s super easy to implement. With just one click, you’ll have the finished layers. It works on text, vectors, pixel layers, smart objects, and more. It also has a smart shadow you can play with. And a video tutorial is included.

Real 3D Text Mockup Photoshop Actions

Here’s another fantastic option for adding 3D effects to the text elements of your graphics. Just a few clicks and you’ll see your results. You can use it in backgrounds and more. It comes with 6 PSD files with the effect in Smart Objects. It also comes with a help file that includes instructions and fonts.

Isometric Illustration 3D Photoshop Generator

Now this is a fun one. The Isometric Illustration 3D Photoshop Generator makes it easy to create isometric illustrations from all types of illustrations. Apply it to shapes, vectors, smart objects, group layers, pixel layers, or text. It works in 4 directions, you can select from 10 depth sizes, and it comes with a total of 40 different actions.

Animated 3D Photography Stereoscopic Action

Last on our list is another animated option. Great a 3D animated GIF from one images with just a few clicks. It uses a parallax effect to create a shift in the image layers. When played on a look, it creates the illusion of 3D. It comes with 3 different vintage-style color presets, a help file, and a video file.

How to Install Photoshop Actions

Download and unzip the action file
Launch Photoshop
Go to Window > Actions
Select Load Actions from the menu and go to the folder where you saved the unzipped action file to select it
The Action will now be installed
To use the newly installed action, locate it in the Action panel
Click the triangle to the left of the action name to see the list of available actions
Click the action you want to play and press the play button at the bottom of the Actions panel

Though the prospect of creating 3D images might seem daunting at first, it’s actually fairly easy so long as you have the right tools in your toolbox. This selection of Photoshop actions for creating 3D effects ought to shave hours off your workflow time, and the results will be sure to please. Happy creating!

The post The 12 Best Photoshop Actions for Creating 3D Effects appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.1clanek.info/?p=1536

The 2021 WordPress Year in Review

December 14, 2021December 14, 2021 Jennifer Wilson Webdesign Services

Each year, the web is full of new ideas, tools, and trends. But for WordPress, 2021 may be looked upon as one of great foundational shifts. Changes that, while still in their early stages, promise to have a lasting impact on how we work with the content management system (CMS).

That applies not only to the core software but to its massive community and ecosystem as well. There were moments when it felt nearly impossible to keep up with the flurry of movement and acquisitions in this space. For a time, WordPress was akin to an open-source Wall Street.

Now that we’ve reached the end of the year, let’s take a look at the biggest developments as they relate to WordPress.

Blocks Take Over the Back End

The Gutenberg block editor was moved into WordPress core way back in 2018 (has it really been that long?), but 2021 saw the feature go beyond pages and posts.

Block Widgets

The venerable WordPress Widgets screen’s familiar drag-and-drop UI saw wholesale changes this year. As of WordPress 5.8, Widgets are now block-based.

The transition to blocks is more than just cosmetic. It also means that virtually any block can now be placed within a sidebar. This greatly expands the content options available to site owners.

The standard core widgets that come with WordPress were refreshed, while some new additions have also been integrated. Older widgets still work and are available through a Legacy Widgets block.

However, this change may cause issues for some sites that rely on legacy widgets. Thankfully, the Classic Widgets plugin can restore things to their previous state.

It’s a big transition. One that has me thinking about the future of this longtime staple of WordPress.

Full Site Editing

Full Site Editing (FSE) was perhaps the most buzzed-about WordPress feature of the year. It offers the ability to design and edit every aspect of a theme – right from within the block editor.

The potential impact is hard to ignore. WordPress themes are going to look a lot different in terms of how they’re structured. And, with more power in the hands of users, it will be interesting to see how the theme market shifts to take advantage.

FSE could also change the design process itself. Since so much can be achieved via the browser, where does that leave traditional wireframing tools? Some designers may decide to skip them altogether.

As exciting (or terrifying) as this all sounds, FSE is not yet a part of WordPress core. It’s scheduled for full release in WordPress 5.9, which has been pushed back to January 2022.

Here’s a look at what you can expect from WordPress 5.9 when it comes to Full Site Editing.

Popular WordPress Plugins and Providers Change Ownership

The other major storyline involves the business side of the WordPress ecosystem. 2021 saw dozens of plugins, agencies, and hosting providers changing hands. Among close observers, heads were spinning at the sheer number of transactions taking place.

There are several theories as to why there were so many acquisitions. The pandemic, a maturing market, along with the growing complexity of WordPress were among the most common. Some combination of all three seems like a safe bet.

What does it all mean? In the short term, there are user concerns over what will happen to the software and services they rely on. It also means some well-respected members of the community have decided to move on. People such as Elliot Condon (of Advanced Custom Fields) and Pippin Williamson (of Sandhills Development) are two prime examples.

Looking out further, many of these acquisitions have been made by a handful of companies. This consolidation of assets could impact competition. How difficult will it be for a solo entrepreneur or small agency to enter the market? What (if any) influence will these large companies have on WordPress core? Will the acquired products themselves suffer or flourish?

Only time will tell. But it will be interesting to see if this trend continues in 2022.

A person using a credit card.

WordPress Passes 40% Market Share

Early in 2021, WordPress surpassed 40% market share. And it continues to grow at a healthy clip. As of this writing, it has a nearly 40-point lead over the second-most-popular CMS (Shopify).

I put together a few thoughts on the milestone back in February. But it is worth revisiting as we look back on the year.

These usage numbers, along with the aforementioned acquisitions, show that WordPress is a space people want to be a part of. That’s a testament to its relative stability, dedicated community, and continued flexibility.

However, it’s that last piece that concerns me the most. To remain a top choice for developers, WordPress should keep providing multiple paths to build a website. That includes the ability to opt-out of features such as Gutenberg and Full Site Editing.

The idea that a web designer can build in a way that suits the needs of their clients is still attractive. And while I find blocks exciting, I also understand that not everyone is on board.

Having alternative methods to accomplish your goals is what has always set WordPress apart. Hopefully, that will remain the case over the long term.

A 3D chart with WordPress logo.

Laying the Foundation for the Future

Odds are that at least one of the developments above impacted you in 2021. Whether it was wrangling that new widget UI or seeing your favorite plugin change hands, it was an eventful year for the WordPress community.

But the immediate impact will likely pale when compared to how these shifts will affect the future. The way we create content in WordPress has already changed. Next comes the way we go about building websites.

The future of the various product and service acquisitions will also be felt for years to come. Some will inevitably turn out better than others. Here’s hoping it brings energy and innovation, with minimal disruption.

Buckle up, WordPress fans – what we saw this year is just the beginning of something much bigger.

The post The 2021 WordPress Year in Review appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.1clanek.info/?p=1533

30 Free Logo Mockup PSD Templates for Creatives

December 14, 2021December 14, 2021 Jennifer Wilson Webdesign Services

A logo is an important part of every brand identity, which is why the presentation of logo design matters. After all, the logo could be used not only on stationery items and a website but also on packaging, billboard ads, product tags, and more. That’s why you need to present the logo in a way that showcases how it will look in a variety of situations and applications.

In this post, we’ve gathered various free logo mockup templates that will help you showcase your logo design beautifully.

More Free Mockup Template

Create Your Own Mockups

Learn How to Create Mockups in Photoshop

3D Wall Logo MockUp (Photoshop PSD)

Create a unique display of your logo design with this 3D wall logo mockup. The template is easy to edit and helps your clients visualize how their logo will look on their office building.

Cracked Logo Mockups (Envato Elements)

Use this logo mockup template to showcase vintage logo designs. The template is a part of Envato Elements and can easily be edited with smart objects.

Sketchbook Letterpress Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Show your clients how their logo will look like on a notebook, notepad or any other stationery item. This mockup is perfect for presenting letterpress logos.

Logo Mock-Up Paper Edition (Envato Elements)

This logo mockup template is available as a part of Envato Elements. It comes with 11 templates and is a great choice if you wish to showcase logo design on paper products.

Shop Facade Logo MockUp (Photoshop PSD)

This shop facade logo mockup is a great choice for any logo that will be used for a storefront. The template includes smart objects so you can easily add your own design and wow your client.

Fabric Embroidered Logo Mockup PSD (Photoshop PSD)

If you know the logo will be used on fabric, this template will come in handy. The template is easy to edit thanks to smart objects and you can change the colors as well.

Burlap Logo Mockup PSD (Photoshop PSD)

This is another great choice if you need to present your logo design on a fabric. The template features burlap and uses smart-object layers for easier editing.

Plastic Logo Mockups (Envato Elements)

Thanks to this mockup, you will be able to present your logo design on a variety of plastic surfaces. The template includes 7 different mockups, all with smart objects for easy editing.

Full-Color Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Whenever you need to present your logo in full color, a white background will ensure that your logo design pops. With this template, you will be able to showcase the colored logo versions.

Vintage Logo MockUp PSD (Photoshop PSD)

Use this logo mockup if you need to showcase a vintage logo. The template includes smart objects and instant handmade grungy ink impression for a spectacular result.

Free Shop Sign Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Consider this logo mockup template to present a logo as a shop sign. The template comes with smart objects and is a great choice for restaurant, bar or shop logo presentation.

Letterpress Logo Mockup Templates (Photoshop PSD)

Use this logo mockup if you want to showcase a letterpress logo design. The template is easy to add as all you have to do is drop in your design onto the smart object layer.

Street Wall Logo Mockup Template (Photoshop PSD)

Check out this street wall logo mockup if you’re looking for a bold and creative way to show off your logo design. The template works great for vintage and retro logos but it can also be adapted to suit more modern designs.

Hanging Wall Sign Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Present your logo as a hanging wall sign. The template includes smart object layers so you can easily add your own design and customize the colors and shadows to suit your needs.

Logo Mockup PSD Templates (Envato Elements)

Be sure to check out this logo mockup template if you want an elegant logo presentation. The template is a part of Envato Elements and includes 8 different designs as well as smart objects.

Free Identity Logo Mockup PSD (Photoshop PSD)

This set of two logo mockups includes two different designs that you can use to present your logo. The template was designed in high resolution and comes with smart objects.

Leather Stamping Logo Mockup Template (Photoshop PSD)

Thanks to this logo mockup, you will be able to showcase your logo embossed on a variety of leather items. Present your logo on leather folios, wallets, and more. The template is easy to edit thanks to smart objects.

Retro Logo Mockups (Envato Elements)

This set of logo mockups comes with 12 different designs created in retro and vintage style. This is a great choice if you want to showcase a retro logo design.

Engraved Wood Logo Mockup PSD (Photoshop PSD)

Check out this engraved wood logo mockup for any retro or nature-oriented logos. The template includes smart objects as well as a special filter that you can apply to the design for a more unique look.

Natural Paper Printed Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Present your logo design beautifully with this realistic natural paper logo mockup. The template can be customized with smart layers and you can easily adjust colors.

Vintage Leather Book Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

With this logo mockup, you will be able to showcase vintage logo designs and make them stand out. The mockup includes a smart object for easy editing and you can even change the background colors.

Paper Logo Mockup Templates (Envato Elements)

This beautiful set of paper logo mockups includes not only smart objects but also lighting effects that will make your logo designs stand out. The template comes with 5 mockups.

Grunge Wall Logo Design (Photoshop PSD)

Add some texture to your logo design presentation with this grunge wall mockup. The template is designed in high resolution and gives your logo design a weathered and rough look.

Linen Logo Mockup Template (Photoshop PSD)

Present your logo on linen for a classy and timeless look. The template uses smart layers for easy editing and you can easily change the colors and drop in your design.

Logo Mockup PSD Template (Photoshop PSD)

This clean and simple logo mockup template is a great choice if you’re looking for a minimalist template. Thanks to the simple design, the template will allow your logo design to shine through.

Logo Mockup Set (Envato Elements)

This logo mockup set features a variety of mockup designs that you can use to showcase the design of your logo. The template includes smart objects and a helpful tutorial to help you customize them.

Logo Label Mockup Template (Photoshop PSD)

Use this logo mockup template if you need to showcase a logo design on a label or a product tag. The template can be customized through smart layers and you can even change the colors and the shadows.

Identity Design Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Use this logo mockup if you have a retro logo design to present. This type of logo presentation is great for cafes, restaurants, breweries, and any other type of business that wants a vintage design.

Logo Mockup PSD (Photoshop PSD)

Here we have a simple and clean logo mockup for Photoshop that works well for a more complex logo. The template is easy to edit thanks to smart objects and you can adjust colors and shadows for a more realistic look.

Perspective Logo Mockups (Envato Elements)

If you want a unique way to showcase your logo design, try this perspective logo mockup. The template includes 6 different mockups and smart object layers.

Indoor Sign Mockup Template (Photoshop PSD)

This logo mockup template features an indoor sign which is great for corporate logos. Your client will be able to visualize how their logo will look on their wall and all you have to do is open the mockup and drop your design onto the smart object layer.

Logo Window Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

If you’re working on a logo for a restaurant, cafe or a beauty salon, you need to show your clients how their logo will look on their window. Use this template to make it happen.

Vintage Logo Mockup PSD (Photoshop PSD)

Any vintage logo will look great on this logo mockup featuring a corkboard stamp. The template can be edited with smart objects and was designed in high resolution.

Hand Lettering Logo Mockups (Envato Elements)

Hand lettered logos are a trendy design style and thanks to this template, you will be able to show your clients how their logo will look in real situations. The template is a part of Envato Elements.

Brick Wall Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Showcase your logo on a brick wall. Simply drop your logo design onto the smart object layer and export the file. You can even change the background color.

Weathered Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

This logo mockup is a fun and unique way to showcase a logo concept. It can be used, for example, to show how the logo will stand the test of time. Easily edit the template with smart objects and adjust the colors.

Restaurant & Office Signs Mockup Templates (Photoshop PSD)

Present your logo on a restaurant or office sign. This solution is a great choice not only for restaurants and corporate logos but also doctors, dentists, beauticians, and other industries.

3D Logo Mockup PSD Template (Photoshop PSD)

Easily make a 3D mockup of your logo design with the help of this logo mockup. The template has smart object layers for easy editing and you can easily adjust shadows, colors, and other elements.

Metal Branding Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Add some shine and polish to your logo presentation with this metal branding logo mockup. The template has an elegant design and has smart objects for easy editing.

Building Facade Logo Mockup (Photoshop PSD)

Show your clients how their logo will look on the side of the building easily with this logo mockup template. Featuring smart objects, all you have to do is drop in your design and export the file.

Take your logo presentation to the next level with the help of various logo mockup templates. Most of the logo mockups on this list are free, so there is no excuse not to download them and use them the next time you need to showcase a logo design.

The post 30 Free Logo Mockup PSD Templates for Creatives appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine.