Layers TV Episode: 23

Corey demonstrates how to use filters and nested smart objects to create motion graphics in Photoshop CS3 Extended.

• Open a short video clip in Photoshop CS3 Extended
• Convert it to a smart object and drop it onto a background, using free transform to resize it
• Create nested smart object layers and use the animation timeline to create layer motion
• Duplicate that layer and resize it
• Use a layer mask to bring out a middle section of the front video clip
• Apply some layer styles to the front layer and watch your motion graphic take life
• Animate the layer mask to give it even more effect
• Add some text and a duplicate background and this project is done

RC talks about installing a Flash component to quickly and easily create an xml-based slideshow.

• Open a new ActionScript 3.0 document in Flash
• Create three layers; one with text, one as a frame box, and the third for the carousel component
• Install your component and open it in Flash in the component panel
• Find the component’s xml file and make the necessary edits using Dreamweaver
• Use Flash’s component inspector to adjust the properties of your carousel component
• Create buttons layer, go to common libraries and add some Flash buttons to the stage
• Give the buttons instance names and event listeners using some A.S. code
• When you are finished, you have a great-looking photo slideshow that’s ready for the web

RC and Corey announce the winner of last week’s Layers TV contest and give out a new contest question. Tune in to find out.