A drop shadow is a computer graphic effect that simulates a shadow under or near an object. It adds dimension and style to text or objects and can be used in websites, user interfaces, and photo editing software. It is encoded through style sheet languages like CSS.
A drop shadow is a term used in computer graphics. Refers to a computer drawing placed under or near an object on the screen. This graphic simulates a shadow effect, so it is typically a dark facsimile of the original object placed against a light background.
Drop shadows are used primarily for stylistic effect. They make an otherwise flat object appear somewhat dimensional by giving the illusion that it is raised above its surroundings. Additional realism can be achieved by giving the shadow soft edges or by making the shadow darker in certain places. The former effect is often achieved through a method known as Gaussian blurring, while the darkening can occur through alpha blending. A blending technique is especially effective if the foreground object is somewhat translucent.
These flourishes were one of the first effects popularized in computer design. They became widely used because drop shadows were a means of adding style to text or objects without having to significantly change any other aspect of the document. Some unusual variations on the traditional shape included checkered backgrounds, floating backgrounds, and shapes with slight color variations known as fountain fills.
Many aspects of computer graphics use the image of the drop shadow. Websites can use drop shadows to draw attention to certain written passages or images, or as a general background effect. Drop shadows can operate on both graphics and words in individual computer documents, making these objects more legible and clearer when placed against a plain background, or especially against a cluttered background. Many graphical user interface components, such as icons, also contain drop shadows. Because these components allow computer users to interact directly with what is presented on a screen, it is usually important that they be highlighted in some way, such as with a drop shadow.
Encoding a drop shadow in a document should usually be accomplished via a style sheet language. These are the signs and cues that an individual uses to create the appearance of a computerized document. In general, certain symbols and signs, known as markup language, are placed around text or instructions, and these symbols and signs will direct a program to create a certain effect on the screen, such as drop shadows. One of the most widely used forms of style sheet language is Cascading Style Sheets (CSS).
Photo editing software also often has drop shadow as an effect option. Editing techniques typically involve adding layers of revisions and effects to an original image. When using drop shadows in software, the user is often presented with a menu that guides them through the process. These menus allow you to fine-tune various aspects such as the color and angle of the shadow.
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