PSE4: Drop Shadow default settings

[Alissa Jones]

My default setting for drop shadow is 21 pixels. Is there a way to change my default rather than having to change the shadow on each layer as I go? Thanks!

[Christine Smith]

once you apply a layer style, there will be a little f inside a circle on the layer in the layers palette -- double-click on it and you can make adjustments to the layer style. Or you can use menu commands layer -> layer style - > style setting
HTH

[mamakimberly]

why did i never think to save that as a layer style! that is GENIUS I tell ya!

thank you Christine!!!!

[Christine Smith]

oh GAG. I didn't understand your question!!!
I must have been reading too fast -- I answered how to change it for each layer ... like you've already been doing...not how to change the default (which I DON"T know how to do) ~ sorry

[caridura]

This is one of the most frustrating things about PSE for me. I've asked and asked and I just don't think that you *can* change the default to anything else. :( It's time consuming to change it to something lower every single time.

[Atomic Cupcake]

What would be the general consensus on a NEW default? A photoshop user could make a layer style for you that could be added into the menu (like actions are).

[jorgies5]

I usually use between 1 - 3. Probably "1" the most. That is my vote for a default.

[ethansmom]

I searched for a while when I started and the general consensus seemed to be "1" for papers/flat stuff and "3-5" for lumpier stuff.
I would give my right arm, well, maybe not, but I would LOVE to be able to change the default. But no-can-do.

Carrie

[Alissa Jones]

Thanks you guys! I guess for now I'll keep changing it. But a new layer style would be a cool addition!

[caridura]

What would be the general consensus on a NEW default? A photoshop user could make a layer style for you that could be added into the menu (like actions are).

Ooh, that would be a wonderful thing! I use 1 or 2 for most things and then increase it depending on how big/bulky the elements are. A default of 2 would probably be great!

[JenniferWoodbury]

You guys have to check out Traci Murphy's new drop shadow actions. She made them PSE compatible. I just tried them out today and they are fabulous...very realistic looking. I would check them out...I can already tell these are going to be a HUGE time saver for me!

http://www.tracimurphydesigns.com/dropshadows.html

[catscraps]

traci murphy just came out with these spankin' drop shadow actions! the shadows are so realistic, and at the touch of a button! :) more details here,

http://digishoptalk.com/boards/viewtopic.php?t=1825&start=0

[GinaMiller]

Totally gonna have to recommend Traci's shadows as well! When I started digi-scrapping about 20 months ago, I had everything set at the pre-set 21. Egads! I have since re-done all of those pages. ;) Traci's are very subtle & realistic looking (there are different shadows settings for varying papers & elements). They're my new fave!

[GinaMiller]

LOL Jinx Cat! We were typing together. ;)

[lovesher2boys (Julie)]

:lol: Can I add my thirds (fourths) recommendation for Traci's shadows? I use PSCS2 and they are the bomb, baby!!
You'll be seeing them credited in all my layouts from here on out!

[grandmalynnie]

Katie Pertiet at Designerdigitals came out with some great actions several weeks ago. Here they are:
Drop Shadow Action Set (http://www.designerdigitals.com/ecom/product_info.php?products_id=1116)

Also here's some samples of how they work:
Examples of Drop Shadow Actions (http://www.designerdigitals.com/ddgallery/showphoto.php?photo=7018&limit=recent)

[wyowomanKristin]

but i didn't think they worked in Elements? (the title of this thread!)

[grandmalynnie]

You're right, sorry! I just got carried away after reading all the posts! Katie's actions only work in PS right now.