Photoshop & Print Size Cropping

[Marley]

Could anyone tell me how you can create a tool action for a 8x10 crop?


I have some great shots that I cropped "freehand" or "non print size"

There were big problems when I sent them into my print service.


I'm looking to create a 8x10 frame that could move or float around the image to select which part to crop?


I've tried re-sizing and I either have a distorted image or incorrect print size.

help.

[slejhamer]

I hate to ask such an obvious question, but have you tried the cropping tool, with which you can specify the exact dimensions and resolution? Or perhaps I misunderstood your post...

[john_houghton]

You need to use modal control of the crop command. Record your action, setting the size and resolution of the crop command as suggested. Then click on the blank dialog box to the left of the crop command This will turn on the dialog option so that when you run the action, it will stop at the crop command. The crop area will be set up and you can then move it around and resize it, maintaining the required proportions. When you commit the crop, the action will continue.

John

[Marley]

Duh... I'm a idiot sorry.

I just figured it out.

this make things much easier.

[kendersplace]

Thanks for asking!

Haha. You learn something new every day. I've been using PS for about 6 months now and never realized you could specify a size AND resolution. This rocks. I'm happy now. (And I'm looking over all the other tools I use on a regular basis for not-so-obvious easy features!)

[Kevin Connery]

There's a LOT of stuff hidden in the Crop tool!

Not only can you set your output aspect ratio and resolution, you can rotate the image by dragging the handles, expand the size of your canvas by enlarging the crop beyond the edges of the working space, etc.

I used to downplay the Crop tool, seeing it only as another way to Select via the Marquee then Crop, but I've been using it a LOT recently.

If you do a lot of standard-size output, don't overlook saving preset for the Crop tool; 4x5@300 DPI, 10x8@240 DPI, etc., whatever your lab (or printer) wants. Then all you have to do is select that one pre-set, and all the settings are the way you want 'em. (Actions will work, too.)

[slejhamer]

You can save presets?! I knew I was missing something... :D

Hey Kevin - didn't I see your name on zuga? How 'bout those Ducks?