Create Fractal Images
in Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop comes with an abundance of effects filters and photo-editing tools, but it can be used for more than just touching up photographs. Transformations and effects can be applied to a simple graphic design, transforming it into a complex and beautiful fractal. Photoshop's advanced graphic editing tools can be used to create an impressive, recursive fractal image with only a few quick keystrokes.
Instructions
1. Open a new document in Photoshop. Give the document a name and use the "Background" box to set a background color. Make sure the document is large, at least 1,600 by 1,200 pixels.
2. Click "New Layer" in the Layers palette to create a new layer. Use Photoshop's drawing and effects tools to create a simple design that will be the basis for your fractal.
3. Highlight the layer that contains your design. Press "Ctrl" + "Alt" + "T" to activate the "Free Transform Tool." A transform box will appear around your design.
4. Hold "Alt" + "Shift" and use the transform box to scale your design down. Grab the cross hair at the center of the transform box, and drag it to an open location on your layer. Rotate your graphic around the cross hair, and press "Enter."
5. Hold "Ctrl" + "Alt" + "Shift." Press "T" to repeat the transformation. Photoshop will create a new layer with the transformed design. Repeat the transformation until you are satisfied with the shape and length of the fractal.
6. Click on the "Visible" icon next to the background layer in the Layers palette to make the background invisible. Press "Ctrl" + "Shift" + "E" to merge all visible layers. Your fractal will merge into a single layer. Make the background layer visible by clicking on the "Visible" icon again.
7. Save your work as a Photoshop document. Repeat these steps, using the new fractal layer as your design. When you are satisfied with your image, use the "Save As" option to save your fractal as a JPG.
