How to use free transform 2

[kiddpete]

I've got a photo with two layers; background and layer 1. I've got layer 1 selected, and use the selection tool to draw a rectangle around the visible portion of layer 1. I can copy and paste the contents of the rectangle, but when I try to rotate it with a free transform the image does not rotate. The outline of the rectangle rotates, but none of the image does. What am I doing wrong? Version is PS CS.

 

[mscallisto]

Make a selection with with rectangular marquee tool > Edit > Free Transform > rotate the selection > hit enter...

the selected piece gets rotated.


what did you do different?

 

[kiddpete]

I didn't do anything different. Does the image move while you are rotating it? The selection outline rotated, but the image did not. It's like I'm not on the right layer, but when I copy and paste the image is accessed correctly.

 

[rickwells]

Are you using the "transform Selection" option in the "Select" menu ? This will rotate the selection only and not the image.
You need to use'Free Transform from within the "Edit" menu.

 

[mscallisto]

Yes the image moves while I rotate it.

Can you try opening a simple .jpg so you're working with a background only situation then try the selection/transform rotate process?

 

[kiddpete]

I'll check it tonight as my machine is at home, but now that you mention it, I think I am accessing the transform from the selection menu. Thanks, I'll let you know,

 

[aikodude]

you can also access Free Transform with the "Crtl-T" shortcut rather than going through the edit menu. Much faster.

 

[tperkins]

Also when you use the free transform tool in PhotoShop, depending on the file size and, image size, ram...etc. it may take a little time to see the rotated view. After you rotate the box the dashed lines, which is the box will be still and when the preview is complete the dashed lines will again appear to move.

Tony Perkins