How to Move Custom Shapes in Photoshop?

To move custom shapes in Photoshop, you typically use the Move Tool (V) or the Direct Selection Tool (A), depending on whether you want to move the entire shape or just specific points within the shape. A more recent feature is the Shapes panel where you can manage, reorder, and even delete custom shapes.

Here's a breakdown of how to move custom shapes effectively:

Using the Move Tool (V)

1. Select the Move Tool: Press "V" on your keyboard or select it from the Tools panel.
2. Select the Shape Layer: In the Layers panel, click on the layer containing the custom shape you want to move. Make sure "Auto-Select" is enabled in the options bar at the top (and set to "Layer") for easier selection directly on the canvas.
3. Move the Shape: Click and drag the shape directly on the canvas to reposition it. Photoshop moves the entire shape layer.

Using the Direct Selection Tool (A)

1. Select the Direct Selection Tool: Press "A" on your keyboard or select it from the Tools panel.
2. Select the Shape/Paths: Click on the shape or specific points/paths within the shape you want to move. This allows you to adjust individual vector points and segments.
3. Move the Selected Points/Paths: Click and drag the selected points or paths to modify the shape's form. This tool is ideal for making precise adjustments.

Using the Shapes Panel

1. Open the Shapes Panel: Go to Window > Shapes.
2. Manage Shapes: In the Shapes panel, you can reorder your shapes. You may need to load Legacy Shapes first (from the panel menu).
3. Reorder Shapes: You can reorder shapes by dragging them up or down in the panel. Deleting shapes is also possible via the panel menu.
4. Use Shapes in Options Bar: After managing your shapes in the shapes panel, access and use them as before via the options bar when the Shape tool is selected.

Additional Tips

• Keyboard Shortcuts: Hold down "Shift" while dragging with the Move Tool to constrain movement to horizontal or vertical axes.
• Precise Positioning: Use the arrow keys to nudge the selected shape or points for fine-grained adjustments. The nudge distance is determined by your Preferences.
• Multiple Shapes: Select multiple shape layers in the Layers panel to move them together using the Move Tool.
• Transform: Use Edit > Transform options (Scale, Rotate, Skew, Distort, Perspective) to further adjust the shape's size, angle, and appearance.

Moving custom shapes in Photoshop is essential for creating complex designs. Understanding the Move Tool, Direct Selection Tool, and the Shapes panel will give you greater control over your artwork.