How to Install Fonts in Photoshop

Text can be placed on an image in Photoshop using the text tool. Photoshop offers a variety of standard fonts for use when adding text. However, you may wish to play around with some different, unique fonts to better complement your design. TrueType or OpenType fonts can be downloaded for free and used in a variety of programs. They must first be downloaded in the Windows fonts folder.

Things You'll Need

• TrueType fonts
• OpenType fonts
• Microsoft Windows

Instructions

1. Research fonts and choose those you wish to add to your collection. Online sites offer a variety of free fonts. There are also CDs available with different fonts. Regardless of the source, download the font and save it in a fonts folder on your hard drive.

2. Double-click the fonts folder and choose "File." You should be able to select "Install New Font" at this point.

3. Find the fonts you want to install. They may be on a CD or in a folder on your hard drive. When you download fonts from an online site, save them in a place that is easy to access when you install them in Windows.

4. Highlight the TrueType or OpenType font you wish to install and click "Ok." This will complete the installation. Programs, such as Photoshop will automatically incorporate the new font in the list provided by the program.

5. Go to the start menu and select "Settings." Open your control panel. In Windows XP, the control panel will be in the start menu. There is no need to look for "Settings" first.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using The Font Thing to organize and search all your fonts. This free software can be downloaded at Cnet.com (see Resources below).

• If you are installing fonts from a CD, make sure they are saved on the hard drive otherwise the fonts will not be available with the CD.

• If you are using a Mac, the instructions are a little different. Simply locate the fonts you want to install and drag them to the system folder.

• Download fonts online at dafont.com (see Resources below).

• Do not assume that the font is available for use once it is saved on your hard drive. The different fonts must be properly installed for them to be recognized and available for use in the different programs.