How to Apply Shadow Effects in InDesign

This article will explain how to apply a simple shadowing effect to images or text using Adobe InDesign.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Adobe InDesign software

Using the shadow effect in InDesign (PC version)

1. Use InDesign to open a document containing text and or images.

2. Use the 'Selection Tool' to right-click on an image or text box.

3. From the drop-down box, select 'Effects' and then 'Drop Shadow.' You can also access this effect by pressing 'Ctrl-Alt-M.' This will bring up the effect detail box. Be sure the 'Drop Shadow' effect is checked so that you can access the variables for this effect.

4. Simply clicking 'OK' will apply the shadow effect with the default variables. If you want to alter the appearance of the effect, use the available options to achieve the effect that you desire. Some of the options are:Blending - This will allow you to toggle the mode, color and opacity of the shadow.Position - This will allow you to alter the vertical and horizontal position of the shadow, as well as the angle of the light.Options - With these variables you can change the density, size and spread of the shadow. Be sure to check the "Preview" box so that you can see your changes in real time.

5. When you have achieved the effect that you desire, be sure to click the "OK" button to save your changes.

Tips & Warnings

• This effect can be applied to both text and images to create a 3-D effect.
• When using this effect, be sure that it does not affect the readability of text.
• Be sure that the shadow doesn't interfere with other elements of your document.
• Remember to click "OK" when you are happy with your effect to save it to the document.

Resources

• Official Adobe website