sizing picture

[mindyt743513]

Hi I feel like this is a stupid question, how do I make the attached picture a 3x5?  I have gone under image, image size and put the dimensions in, but no matter if link the two dimensions together or not, the image gets distorted 

[mglush]

Hi! There are no stupid questions! We are happy to help.

Because the image is a different aspect ratio, using Image Size will not shrink it to the right proportion without the distortion you are talking about.

But there are a few tricks you can use to make it work. First, create a new file 5" wide by 3" tall at the same resolution of your orginal file. Then you can drag the image over in to this new file and shrink or move it around to best fit the composition. This way you have your original file unaltered and your new file at the size/dimension you want.

The other option is to use the crop tool and set the ratio dialog box to W x H X Resolution. Set the width and Height and Resolution and then you can drag a Crop marquee around the area you want and press return. It will automatically change the photo to a 3 x 5 size for you.

I prefer the first option because I never want to alter my originals, but each option works well.

Let us know if you have any additional questions!

Michelle

[mindyt743513]

When I tried your first option, I get the attached picture.  Any suggestions?  

[mglush]

Yes, first what is the resolution of the new document? Are you changing this so that you can print it? Then you will need a resolution of at least 150. Larger is fine, but less than that and the quality of the print will not be as sharp. To change the resolution, use Image size and make sure that Resample Image is unchecked.

Second, you need to change the CANVAS size to 5 wide by 3 tall so the orientation is Horizontal.

Then when the resolution is what you need and the orientation is correct, then use Free Transform (Cmd-T)on that layer to make it smaller to create the look you want. 

Option 1:

Option 2:

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I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any questions.

Michelle

[Peru Bob]

"I prefer the first option because I never want to alter my originals"

I duplicate the layer and make one layer invisible.  Then I crop the visible layer and save as a PSD.

I can always go back th the original that way.

[mglush]

True. But the reason I do it the other way is that sometimes I get a better composition by moving the image around in the space on my new file. It's just a preference. Either way would work! 🙂

[jane-e]

"Then I crop the visible layer"

@mindyt743513  Be careful with this method, as cropping always crops the entire document, including all layers even if they are not visible. It's important to keep the original untouched. You will need to do some cropping to avoid distorting. though, to make a 3" x 5".

~ Jane