How to Make Rounded Corners in Photoshop CS6?

To create rounded corners in Photoshop CS6, the most common method involves using the Rounded Rectangle Tool or applying a layer mask with a rounded rectangle shape.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

Method 1: Using the Rounded Rectangle Tool

1. Create a New Layer (Optional): For non-destructive editing, create a new layer (Layer > New > Layer) where you'll draw your rounded rectangle. This avoids directly altering your original image.
2. Select the Rounded Rectangle Tool: In the Tools panel, find and select the "Rounded Rectangle Tool" (it might be hidden under the Rectangle Tool; click and hold to reveal other shapes).
3. Set the Radius: In the options bar at the top, look for the "Radius" setting. This determines how rounded your corners will be. Experiment with different values (e.g., 10px, 20px, 50px) until you achieve the desired look.
4. Draw the Rectangle: Click and drag on your canvas to draw the rounded rectangle.
5. Customize (Optional): You can change the fill color, stroke color, and stroke width in the options bar or using the Properties panel (Window > Properties).
6. Rasterize (If Necessary): If you need to perform pixel-based edits (like painting or using filters) on the shape layer, you'll need to rasterize it. Right-click on the layer in the Layers panel and select "Rasterize Layer." Be aware that rasterizing turns the shape into pixels and you lose the ability to adjust the roundness later.

Method 2: Using a Layer Mask

1. Open Your Image: Open the image you want to apply rounded corners to.
2. Duplicate the Layer (Recommended): For non-destructive editing, duplicate your image layer (right-click > Duplicate Layer).
3. Add a Layer Mask: In the Layers panel, select your image layer and click the "Add Layer Mask" button at the bottom of the panel (it looks like a rectangle with a circle in the middle). This adds a white layer mask next to your image layer.
4. Select the Rounded Rectangle Tool: In the Tools panel, select the "Rounded Rectangle Tool."
5. Set the Radius: As with Method 1, set the desired "Radius" value in the options bar.
6. Draw the Rounded Rectangle: Ensure that the layer mask thumbnail is selected in the Layers panel (click on it) and then draw a rounded rectangle where you want your image to be visible. Photoshop will automatically fill the shape with black on the layer mask. The area inside the rounded rectangle will remain visible. The rest of the image will be hidden.
7. Adjust Position if Necessary: If the positioning of the rounded cornered image is off, click the chain icon between the layer and the layer mask in the Layers panel to unlink them. You can then move the image around without affecting the shape of the rounded rectangle mask. Click the chain icon again when you're done repositioning if you want the shape and image to remain linked in future movements.

Tips & Considerations:

• Non-Destructive Editing: Using layer masks is generally preferred as it allows you to easily modify the rounded corners later without permanently altering the original image data.
• Vector vs. Raster: The Rounded Rectangle Tool creates vector shapes, which are scalable without loss of quality. Layer masks using vector shapes offer flexibility. Rasterizing creates a pixel-based image, losing the vector benefits.
• Experiment: The best way to learn is to experiment with different radius values and techniques to find what works best for your specific needs.
• Check Radius Setting: If the corners don't appear to be rounded enough, double-check your radius setting in the options bar when the rounded rectangle tool is active.