3
Setting the Active and Alternate Colors
The active color (represented by the front Color Swatch) is used for painting and drawing, and the
alternate color (represented by the back Color Swatch) is used for special features such as the
gradient tool.
• While an image window is open, click in the Color Palette to select the active color, (The
color selected appears in the front color swatch at the bottom of the Color Palette.)
• Click the back Color Swatch to bring it to the front, then click to choose the desired color,
• Make sure the front Color Swatch represents the active color. You can change the
alternate color into the active color by clicking on the alternate Color Swatch to bring it to
the front. (See the Color Palette below)
Fig. 2 Close-up view of the Color Palette
Making a Selection in an Image
You must select the active image or part of the image to begin using any of the editing/retouching
tools, or to apply any special effect or enhancement. To make a selection, do the following:
• Click to pick a selection tool,
• Click where (in the image) you want the selection to begin,
• Click or drag (depending on the tool) to make the selection.
Deselecting a Selection
Do one of the following:
• Click Select>None.
• Click anywhere outside the current selection.
Editing a Selection
• While (part of) an image is selected, do one of the following:
- pick a drawing or painting tool from the Tools Palette and apply it to the selection,
- select a menu command (Transform, Effects, and Enhance) and apply it to the
selection,
• Follow the instructions (from online Help) on individual tool/command to proceed.
Working with Layers
Layers are like transparencies stacked together. Where there is nothing on a layer, you can see
objects in layers underneath. Layers allow you to edit, paint, retouch, paste, and reposition
objects on one layer without affecting data on any other layers. To use layers, do the following:
• Expand the Layers Palette by dragging its title bar,
• Click the New Layer Button to add a layer,
• Click the Copy Layer Button to copy a layer,
• Click the Paste Layer Button to paste a copied a layer,
Alternate Color