Building Templates

How do you create a "template" file for future use? This reader writes with some web site examples...

David from Michigan, running Windows XP and Photoshop 7 writes:

I would like to create some templates that I can drag a photo into such as provided by: way Kewl Templates or Drive Art.
Could you show how to do these or point me to a source (book, web site etc) that shows the steps. Thanks you.

David, the answer and solutions to this request is beyond the scope of this blog, and better suited for a full tutorial in the Photoshop Tips & Tricks site. I'll see if we can't get the PS team to build an online tutorial which more fully explains the best way to set up re-usable templates.

We've seen these kinds of templates used far and wide, particularly at the boardwalk "photo shops" where you can have your picture put on the cover of TIME or Newsweek Magazines, or even into the JAWS movie poster. They're lots of fun once you set them up -- and can be very easy to use.

Getting Started...

For now, direct your attention to the layers palette.

You can easily build templates like the commercial ones by first creating the 'frame' art, the way you want it on a transparent layer two steps above the background.

Utilize any tools and methods you like to achieve the desired "look" and then merge them into one layer, above a blank layer or a transparent background. Be sure to lable the template for easy sight-recognition.

Leave the template picture "window" transparent so that imported images can then be seen behind your frame.

Now, all you have to do is bring the digital photo image into the template file utilizing the MOVE tool (drag-n-drop) or Edit > Copy.

Caution is advised: You'll want to make sure your image to be imported into the template matches the resolution of the template. You may even need to generate several templates that are set to a size and resolution that will work well with various photo images you'll be importing, as well as with your final output equipment.

You may also want to note the pixel size of the opening -- perhaps in the title of the template file -- so you can edit your new image into the right size before importing.

Please keep us informed of progress.

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Comments

[raed khan]

hi i just want to know how to make templates such as the ones you can make your own vinyl skin with like all the ones shown on youtube. someone made their own psp skin so i would like to know how to make one far a sansa fuze

[raed khan]

hi i just want to know how to make templates such as the ones you can make your own vinyl skin with like all the ones shown on youtube. someone made their own psp skin so i would like to know how to make one far a sansa fuze

[raed khan]

hi i just want to know how to make templates such as the ones you can make your own vinyl skin with like all the ones shown on youtube. someone made their own psp skin so i would like to know how to make one far a sansa fuze