Crop, resize and transform

How it works#

Cropping changes the visible framing of an image. Image Size changes its dimensions, while Canvas Size changes the surrounding document area. These operations solve different problems: use a crop for a tighter composition, resize for a required output resolution, and enlarge the canvas when adding space around existing content.

Free Transform changes an element’s scale, rotation and geometry. The transform options include skew, distort and perspective, along with exact rotations and flips. Use precise values when an image needs a consistent orientation or repeated layout. Transform Again can repeat the preceding transformation, which is useful when building a pattern or a sequence of similarly positioned objects.

Check which layers and masks are selected or linked before transforming. A correct-looking photograph can become misaligned with its mask when only one part moves. For repeated transformations, smart objects help preserve the original source; direct raster edits can progressively change pixel detail. Examine the final result at its intended size and keep an editable master before producing smaller exports for a website or social post.

Try it#

1. Decide whether you need a crop, image resize or canvas resize.
2. Select the intended layer or layers before transforming.
3. Set the scale, rotation or perspective and confirm the result.
4. Save the master, then export at the required delivery dimensions.