Using SpriteEffects

There are two ways to use SpriteEffects:

• Apply effects directly to objects: Apply image effects and adjustment commands directly to vector, text, paint, and group objects. You could apply the Blur command to a text object, then use the Hue/Saturation command to highlight the text edges with color for example. When you apply effects directly, an entire object, including its fill ink, pen ink, and stroke, is affected.
• Apply effects to lens objects:Create a lens object from a vector or text object. Then, apply effects to the lens. The effects will appear on objects that are viewed through the lens. Lenses can magnify objects and view objects in other locations. If you move the viewpoint of a lens, whatever is behind the viewpoint will appear in the lens. If you move the lens, the viewpoint can remain fixed or move with the lens. See Creating a lens.

Applying an effect

Because many types of filters and adjustments can be applied through SpriteEffects, general procedures are given here. You can locate specific information for effects commands by looking up the commands in the index. When a vector or text object is selected, the SpriteEffects icon and SpriteEffects menu appear in the Properties bar.

To apply an effect:

1. Select an object or a lens.
2. Do one of the following:
   • In the Properties bar, select an effect from the SpriteEffects drop-down list.
   • Choose Object | SpriteEffects | Add an Effect, then select an effect.
   • In the SpriteEffects palette, click the New Effect icon, select an effect from the drop-down list, then click OK.
3. If a dialog box appears, select the settings you want to use, then click OK.

You can apply multiple effects by repeating this task as many times as necessary.

Using plug-in filters with SpriteEffects

You can also use Plug-in filters with SpriteEffects. Plug-ins must be Adobe Photoshop 4.0. compatible and also support Photoshop Actions.

Plug-ins can be installed by copying them to the Plug-ins folder in the Canvas Tools folder. For information on settings and options for a plug-in, refer to the documentation from the manufacturer.

Effects commands in the Image | Filter and Image | Adjust submenus are available for traditional image editing. These commands are not available when other types of objects are selected.