Rotating an image in Photoshop is straightforward and can be achieved in several ways, depending on whether you want to rotate the entire image or just a selection.
Rotating the Entire Image
To rotate your entire image, use the Image > Image Rotation menu. This rotates the entire canvas and its contents. You can choose to rotate 90° clockwise, 90° counter-clockwise, 180°, or a custom angle using the Free Transform tool (explained below). This method affects the entire document, including the canvas size.
Rotating a Selection or Layer
For more precise control, or to rotate only a portion of your image (a selection or layer), use the Edit > Free Transform command (Ctrl+T or Cmd+T). This places a bounding box around your selection, allowing you to rotate it freely. Click and drag one of the corner handles to rotate. You can also adjust the rotation angle by typing a precise value into the options bar. A small circle appears in the center of the bounding box; dragging this adjusts the rotation pivot point, useful for rotating around specific areas. Hit Enter or Return to confirm the transformation.
- Rotating a layer: Select the layer in the Layers panel before applying Free Transform. This allows you to rotate the layer independently of other layers. This leaves the background unchanged.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: The YouTube video Photoshop Quick Tip: How to Rotate a Selection or an Image - YouTube demonstrates the basic steps, highlighting the usefulness of the Free Transform tool and the central point of rotation.
Additional Rotation Methods
- Camera Raw: For adjustments within Camera Raw, you can use keyboard shortcuts 'L' and 'R' to rotate. (Source: Adobe Community)
- Perspective Crop: This tool allows for a more advanced form of rotation by adjusting the perspective of the image. (Source: Adobe's official Photoshop documentation)
Choosing the Right Method
The best method depends on your specific needs:
- Rotate entire image: Use Image > Image Rotation.
- Rotate a selection or layer: Use Edit > Free Transform.
- Fine-tuned angle adjustments: Manually input precise degrees within Free Transform.
Remember to always save your work frequently to avoid accidental data loss!
