Quick Tip: Simple Reflection in Photoshop

In this quick Photoshop tutorial, I will show you how to create a simple reflection in Photoshop CS and CC. Simple but effective this quick technique transform the final result. No special Photoshop skills required to create a similar effect. You can use the same technique with other objects, text or anything else.

Learn how to create a simple reflection in Photoshop

Tutorial Details and Resources

Difficulty: Beginner
Apps Used: Adobe Photoshop (CS6+)
Estimated Completion Time: 5′ Minutes
Resources: –

Step 1 > Duplicate the Object

To create the reflection go to Layer > Duplicate Layer. This step will create another copy of your object.

Step 2 > Transform the Reflection

With the copy of your object layer selected go to Edit > Transform > Rotate 180°. Repeat again but use Edit > Transform > Flip Horizontal.

Step 3 > Move the Reflection

With arrow keys on your keyboard move down the reflection under the main object.

Step 4 > Add Layer Mask & Gradient

Go to Layer > Layer Mask > Reveal All to create a layer mask for the reflection (image a).  With the layer mask active and black foreground color pick the Gradient Tool (G) in your toolbox. With Black to Transparent gradient draw from bottom to the top of the reflection (image b).

a)

b)

Conclusion

We can finish the reflection here or we can lower the opacity around 90% – 60%. With this simple technique, you can add reflections to any objects you want.