How to Apply Drop Shadow With InDesign

A drop shadow behind text, photos or objects is a simple way to add texture and a three-dimensional appearance to them. In the past, a page designer would have to create a drop shadow in one software program and then import it into the desktop publishing program. All of that changed once Adobe came up with a way to apply a drop shadow with InDesign.

Instructions

1. Select the object, photo or text frame that you want to apply a drop shadow to by clicking on it or using the selection tool.

2. Choose the "Object" option from the drop-down menu and then click "Drop Shadow" to bring up the drop shadow dialog box.

3. Check the Drop Shadow box, as well as the Preview option to see the drop shadow effect you apply as you work.

4. Choose the blend mode by setting the Mode list.

5. Select the "Blur" amount in the dialog box. This determines how soft the shadow edges will be.

6. Choose a color from the color list if you have the capability to print in four-color. Otherwise, leave it as black.

7. Click "OK" to finish applying your drop shadow.

Tips & Warnings

• To adjust the distance between the shadow and the object, use the X and Y offsets.

• You can also change the opacity of the drop shadow (see the eHow titled "How to Apply Text Gradient With InDesign").

• Go back in and uncheck the Drop Shadow box if you change your mind and want to remove it.