Sure it can be this easy! This tutorial assumes you know a bit about Photoshop CS3. As far as I know, CS2 and earlier should have the same options.


Step 1: Create Text



I used the impact font. Because it's big and square. Do whatever you want.

After this, you'll need to rasterize the type or convert it to a shape, since the next transform cannot be done on a text layer. I'll be converting to a shape.



Step 2: Perspective!



Of course, the first part of making something 3D is to add perspective. Use the Transform tool, select Perspective, and drag away.



Step 3: Adding Depth



With your new perspective on things (lol), make sure the layer is selected. Then, while holding the ALT key, alternate between pressing the DOWN and LEFT keys. Every keystroke will create a new layer. Keep doing this until you reach your desired depth. After this, merge all the new layers, and be sure the first layer is on top.
Note: The ARROW keys pressed may differ depending on the angle of perspective you chose in Step 2.



continued in next post...

This post was edited by VectorSigma on Apr 4 2008 09:04am

Step 5: Lighting



Using the Filter -> Render -> Lighting Effects... tool, add lighting to suit your tastes.


Step 6: Color!



Using the Image -> Adjustments -> Hue/Saturation... tool, select the Colorize box and go to town. You can either do each layer separately, or at the same time. Whatever. I suppose you could also use the Color Overlay effect on each layer. Again, it's up to you.



And you're done! For a quick "cel-shaded" effect, simply add a stroke effect to each layer separately. I've also added more lighting to the final image:




Post your results!!!!

This post was edited by VectorSigma on Apr 4 2008 09:17am

nothing ground-breaking,but i guess it helps some people

There were a few who thought you could do the same thing with a drop shadow, or that I had to spend a long time duplicating dozens of layers.

Yeah, this isn't anything new, but when you build upon this effect further, you can achieve some interesting results.

lol. I never knew this. Thanks.

Greatly appreciate all tuts

Thanks for this, and hope to see more

Nice tut, I'll be trying this sometime .

Thanks guys.

Remember to try some variations.

I seem to recall us saying that your sig was fast and easy, and you in turn went on about how difficult it was to make...

n1 on proving us right.

I didnt read all through this but, wouldnt it look better if u add the depth afterwards, in stead of first perspective and then the thickness?