Have you noticed how 3D is slowly taking over the world? Everything seems to be in 3D these days. There are 3D images, movies, music videos and so much more. You can even bring it back to the comfort of your own home by purchasing a 3D television! So, if you’ve been bitten by the 3D bug and always wanted to learn how to create a graphic design with a 3D effect, then you’re in luck!
In this tutorial, we’ll teach you how to create a super cool 3D globe with a sky background using Adobe Photoshop. Trust us, these steps are simple and ultra easy to follow.
Let’s begin, shall we?
Step 1
Open the Adobe Photoshop software and create a new file based on the following settings –Width: 3508 pixels, Height: 3480 pixels at 300 dpi. We’ll use white as the background color.
Step 2
Then, use the Rectangle Tool (U) to create a rectangular shape and duplicate it until you get 5 columns. After that, use the Distribute Horizontal Centers to create equal distances between one rectangular shape with another. Duplicate another 5 more rectangular shapes and rotate them as well.
Step 3
Next, we’ll use the Elliptical Marquee Tool (M) to create a circle shape in the middle, as shown in the image below.
Step 4
Once you’ve created the circle shape, go to Filter > Distort > Spherize and apply these settings – Amount: 100%, Mode: Normal.
Step 5
In this step, we’ll cut off the circle shaped portion, shaping it like a globe.
Step 6
Now, go to Layer > Layer Styles > Gradient Overlay to apply gradient colors in a linear mode.
Step 7
Then, duplicate the layer, rotate it and change the gradient colors. This will help create a super cool 3D effect.
Step 8
Step 9
Let’s create a smokey haze-like effect. To do this, go to Filter > Render > Clouds. You’ll get a number of similar random cloud patterns, just like in the image below.
Step 10
Next, select the front part of the globe and edit the Layer Styles. Then, click on Inner Shadow and use yellow, or whichever color you prefer.
After that, proceed to apply these settings – Blend mode: Color dodge with a 60% opacity,Angle: 100%, Distance: 3 pixels and Size: 7 pixels.
Step 11
Now, we’ll create a new layer. Go ahead and grab the Pen Tool (P) to draw a spiraling path or line surrounding the globe. You can refer to the image below for clarification.
Step 12
Select the Brush Tool (B) and set the diameter to 7 pixels, with an opacity and flow of100%. Select white color as your foreground color.
With your path still on the artwork, go back to the Pen Tool, right click on the canvas and choose the Stroke Path option. A menu will appear, showing that the Brush is already selected as a Tool. Then, select the Simulate Pressure option and click OK. This will make the starting and ending of your stroke thinner.
Step 13
In this step, we’ll cut out certain portions and keep it hidden behind the globe. When you’ve selected the stroke layer, choose the Add Layer Mask at the bottom of the Layers Palette.
Use the Polygonal Lasso Tool (L) to select areas of the globe you want in front of the stroke. Make sure your mask is active by clicking on it and fill these selected areas with black. They should now be cut out, appearing as if they’re behind the globe.
Step 14
Right click on your stroke layer and choose the Blending Options. A Layer Style menu will appear, where we’ll be adding an Inner and Outer Glow to the stroke, making the edges of it glow with a hint of yellow.
Step 15
Lastly, duplicate the stroke layer and rotate it. Your final outcome should be something like this.
These steps only act as simple guidelines for you. Feel free to apply various settings, as shown in all the steps above, according to your personal preference.
PS: Click on the images for a larger and clearer view 🙂
See? We told you it was easy. Now that you’ve learned how to create a simple 3D effect, go show off your new found skills to your buddies! They’ll definitely be green with envy.
See you next time!