How do you transform shapes in Photoshop?

You can transform shapes in Photoshop using the Transform menu options after selecting the shape or layer you wish to modify.

Transforming Shapes: A Step-by-Step Guide

To effectively transform shapes within Photoshop, follow these steps:

1. Selection: Begin by selecting the photo, layer, selection, or shape that you intend to transform. This ensures that the transformations you apply will only affect your chosen element.

2. Access the Transform Menu:

   • If you're working with a general image, layer or selection, go to Image > Transform.
   • If you are working directly with a shape and have the shape tool selected, navigate to Image > Transform Shape.

3. Choose Your Transformation: From the Transform menu, select the specific type of transformation you want to apply. Common options include:

   • Skew: This transformation distorts the shape by slanting or tilting it horizontally or vertically.
   • Distort: This transformation allows you to manipulate the corners of the shape independently, providing a much more flexible way to distort the image.

   Here's an example:

   Transformation	Description	Menu Path
   Skew	Tilts or slants an object horizontally or vertically.	Image > Transform > Skew or Image > Transform Shape > Skew
   Distort	Allows you to move each corner of the shape independently, distorting the shape freely	Image > Transform > Distort or Image > Transform Shape > Distort

Practical Insights

• Shape Tool Consideration: Remember that if you are working with a shape and have selected the shape tool, you must select Image > Transform Shape to transform the shape rather than the overall image layer.
• Non-Destructive Editing: Whenever possible, use smart objects or adjustment layers to apply transformations. This allows you to modify or reverse the transformations later, without compromising the original pixel data.
• Handles and Controls: When a transformation is active, you'll see handles or controls around your selection. Use these to manipulate the shape, scaling, rotating, skewing, or distorting it as needed.

By carefully using the Transform menu options available in Photoshop, you gain precise control over manipulating the shape, size, and orientation of your images, layers, selections and shapes.