Convert flat image to semi-transparent

Hi,

I have an image with a white background and a drop shadow.

The problem is that the image is flat and I would like it to be transparent.

The real problem is in the flat drop shadow where it is desired to have a gradient transparency from 100% to 0 (from outside to inside).

Whats the best way to do it?

-rsd

Raul Dias wrote:

I have an image with a white background and a drop shadow. The problem is that the image is flat and I would like it to be transparent.
The real problem is in the flat drop shadow where it is desired to have a gradient transparency from 100% to 0 (from outside to inside). Whats the best way to do it?

Double click the background layer to make it a normal layer. Go to the Channels palette and click on the RGB icon while holding the Ctrl-key (Cmd-key on a Mac). That will load a selection based on luminosity. Choose the rectangular selection tool and while holding down the Alt-key, select the image itself. This will subtract the image from the selection, so you only have the shadow and he white background selected by luminosity. Hit the delete key to delete the selection.

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Johan W. Elzenga, Editor/Photographer, www.johanfoto.com