Reflection is another design element that is used heavily in Web 2.0 websites. This technique is often employed in icons to create a 3D effect on the image.
The use of this design turns images that are otherwise plain into visually-pleasing ones.
Want to make a 3D icon? Follow these steps:
1. Open your favorite graphics editing program.
2. Open or paste your image on the working area.
3. Create a copy of that image and place it directly where you want to place the reflection. Remember that a reflection is a mirror-image of the image. This is important when making any reflections on your design.
4. Create a layer mask over a good portion of the reflection.
5. Place a gradient effect on the remaining portion of the reflection to create the illusion of a reflection.
6. Voila! You have now created a 3D icon.
Of course, there are several ways of creating this effect. The one that we have shown you is only one of them. You can find a lot more tutorials on the internet that will help you achieve this effect. Choose one that you find most effective.
However, keep in mind to use this effect sparingly. Just as in any...