[Android Themes] vanessaem:
TIPS, TRICKS, GUIDES and SHORTCUTS

Graphics Software Help for Themers

I created this thread for anyone who would like help or want to learn quick ways in which to make theming and/or modding easier while using various graphics software. This software includes Adobe CS(Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.), GIMP, Paint.NET, Xara, CorelDRAW, Painter, etc.

This thread ideally should be able to help those who would like to use a particular program to create icons, launcher themes, boot animations, wallpapers, etc. There are lots of great theming help threads but within these threads there may be a few questions on how to use certain software to accomplish various tasks. A thread dedicated to just that would be ideal so as to not to deviate from the main topics of those threads.

All questions pertaining to how you would use a particular software for your creation are welcome and I would encourage other themers or anyone else who has knowledge and would like help, to please do so. :)

I am mostly familiar with Photoshop. I'm by no means an expert but I'm comfortable enough with the program to be able to be helpful wherever and whenever I can. There are XDA members who know more than I about this particular program as well the others mentioned.

I will add to this thread as much as I can and will also add helpful posts of other users to the OP.

Lets start:

How to open multiple images as Photoshop layers:

1. Opening Adobe Bridge and navigate to the folder that contains the images you want to add to your document. I have Bridge open to a folder on my Desktop with five images inside of it. I’ll select the first image (the one on the left) by clicking on its thumbnail.

2. Then, to select the other two images as well, I’ll hold down my Shift key and individually select images or click on the last of the five images (the one on the right). All five images are now highlighted and selected. Or CTRL+A to select everything in your folder.

3. With all of the images selected, go up to the Tools menu in the Menu Bar along the top of the screen in Bridge, choose Photoshop for a list of Photoshop-specific options, then choose Load Files into Photoshop Layers.

4. Photoshop will open automatically, if it’s not open already, and will add all five images (or as many images that you have selected) into the same document. It may take a few moments for Photoshop to process everything, but when it’s done, you’ll see a single document open on your screen containing all of your photos.

(Photoshop) How to apply an action for your images. You can record an action and set it to one to three buttons. (Photos may be provided later)

1. Go to Window and click Action and the Action popup or menu will show on the right.

2. Click the drop-down next to Action and click New Action.

3. Name your action whatever you'd like. Where it says Function, I would recommend creating one so you don't have to keep selecting your action and clicking the Play button every time you want to use your action. For example, you can make F2, Shift+F2, or Ctrl+F2 a function and anytime you you want your action to start, just click the button or button combinations you made.

4. Click Record and perform your action from start to finish then click the Stop button. Now all you have to do is keep clicking your pre-programmed button anytime you want to use these actions on your images.

(Photoshop) How to batch apply one action to multiple images. Once you have a recorded action you can apply it to an endless amount of images at one time without pressing anything.

1. Go to File > Automate > Batch.

2. At the top in the Play section, where it says Set, find your folder in the drop-down.

3. Underneath Set you will see Action. The drop-down will have your pre-programmed actions and select the one you want.

4. Now go to the Source section. Click the Choose button and select the folder in which you would like your image files saved then Click Ok.
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