Placing Multiple Images in Outline Map

[CCinUS]

I have an outline map of the United States and would like to position a different photo within each of the 50 states.  Is it possible (or feasible) to do this with so many photos and shapes? I am a relative newcomer to PSE and appreciate any tips.

[hatstead]

ccinus  wrote

I have an outline map of the United States and would like to position a different photo within each of the 50 states.  Is it possible (or feasible) to do this with so many photos and shapes? I am a relative newcomer to PSE and appreciate any tips.

Yes, it is possible.

1. Open the map. This will be the canvas (Background layer.)
2. Crop or resize each photo so that it will fit within the outline of each of the states.
3. Then copy/paste to the canvas, and position appropriately with the move tool.
4. You should end up with 51 layers.

TIP: Before you start make sure that the resolution (px/in) is the same value for the photos and for the map.

[CCinUS]

Thanks, hatstead.  I was hoping to be able to place the photo within each state and pan and zoom the photos within the state outline until they fit satisfactorily, instead of having to crop the photos separately as your solution appears to require.  Just the same, I will play around with your solution and see what I can do.  This is all quite new for me, so I appreciate your help.  Here is the map I am using.

[99jon]

Use File >> Place

Choose image and it will drop in the center.

You can zoom or scale by dragging the corner handles.

[CCinUS]

Thanks, 99jon.  How can I get the image that I place to stay within the outlines of a specific state? Am not sure whether it has to do with using layers, or masks, or some other command.

[99jon]

You would need to position it with the move tool so that the portion to be visible is roughly covering the state. Hold down alt and click the layer mask to block.

You can now select the brush, set the foreground colour to white and brush carefully to reveal the portion required. There is no easy way unless you select each state and make a separate layer (ctrl+j)

[CCinUS]

Gotcha. I will play around with this, and between what you and hatstead suggested today, I hope to come up with a good map with 50 different pictures! Thanks again to both of you!

[hatstead]

Well, when you get to the smaller states on the map, e.g. Delaware, Rhode Island, I doubt that you can fit in a "picture." However, you may be able to select an object on the picture, and have sufficient space.

[CCinUS]

Ha, yes, I was wondering about the smaller states as well as states like Michigan (two peninsulas) and Hawaii (several islands).  I will pursue this.  Thanks again!