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Gradients are used all over the web and they have several uses in graphic design as well. A gradient is unique in that it makes your photos or designs come to life and gives them a dimensional feel versus a plain, matte and static look. A gradient is a blend between two or more colors and there are two main ways to apply gradients.

You can simply apply a gradient to a content layer directly. This creates a good solid gradient area that you can use as a basis to design on top of. You can also use this as a way to create a layer mask in a fill or adjustment layer to create a gradual masking effect. Your second option is to use a gradient fill layer. This when you apply the gradient it its own layer and with a layer mask you can use it to mask gradient layer pixels. This is the easiest type of gradient layer to edit.

To apply a gradient as a fill layer you will first select a layer. Remember, the Gradient Tool cannot be used on an image that is in Bitmap or Indexed Color mode. You can also select an area of a layer to limit the gradient fill to that area. If you do not select an area, the gradient will fill the whole layer. Next, you will choose Gradient from the “Create New Fill or Adjustment Layer” pop-up menu. It looks like a circle that is half black and half white at the bottom of your Layers palette.

Now, click the gradient arrowhead at the top of the dialog box to select the type of gradient you want to use. You can choose from:

• Linear

• Radial

• Reflected

• Angular

• Diamond

You can also adjust the Angle by moving the dial or entering a value. This will change how the light is reflected in the gradient. You can use the Scale slider to scale the gradient to the layer. The higher the scale, the more gradual the transition will be between the colors in the gradient.

If you need to adjust the order of the colors in the gradient, you can simply check or uncheck Reverse. You can check Dither to minimize the stripe appearance in your gradient and you can check Align with Layer to have the length of the gradient equal the size of the selected layer. Once you have made your adjustments, click OK.

To create a gradient by dragging, you will want to use the Gradient tool. To use this tool, you will choose a layer or create a new one. You will then select the Gradient tool from the toolbox. It may be hidden behind the Paint Bucket, as they share the same spot in the toolbox. Click on the small area to show it. You can then adjust your gradient presets and select the type of gradient you want, adjust your mode and opacity. You can also use Reverse or Dither if you wish. Now, simply drag across the area that you want a gradient to appear in. You can vary the length of your drags to create different gradient designs. Play around to find the gradient that you want in your design. By using gradients, you can highlight, darken and create unique effects in your photos and designs.

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