In this tutorial we will create a perspective drop shadow without using filters or plug-ins.
Step 1: Create a new document. Using the Type tool, type some text in bold typeface and a solid visual colour. Typefaces with strong edges and flat bases always work best for shadows. Select the text using Selection tool.
Step 2: Pick the Reflect Tool, and hold ALT and click on the light blue line at the bottom of the type object (i.e. the line on which your text should be sitting). In the dialog box that appears, choose Horizontal, 0°, and click on Copy. You will get a reflected text object directly below the original text object. If your reflection is not lined up, then, choose the reflected text object with the selection tool and select Type > Create Outlines from the main menu. This breaks apart the object into individual vectors, and is necessary to complete the next step.
NB. Please note that if you are using a Mac, you will hold down the OPTION key instead of the ALT key wherever it is mentioned during this tutorial.
Step 3: Select the Free Transform Tool, and click on a bottom corner. Then without letting go or moving your mouse, hold CTRL+SHIFT+ALT. Now drag out the mouse horizontally to create your perspective.
Step 4: Select the Gradient Palette (F9). Ensure Linear is selected as well as a -90° angle, and a black to white gradient. Now pick the reflection properly with the selection tool and with the Gradient Tool drag a vertical gradient across the selected text.
Step 5: And there you have a perspective drop shadow! You can make minor adjustments to the gradient and can lower the opacity, or add a little more skew to the shadow using the free transform tool and the direct select tool.
Variations: You can also individualise the perspective shadow using filters. In the example given below I have used Effect > Distort & Transform > Roughen, fiddled with the gradient, altered the blending mode, and lowered the opacity to obtain a simple water-reflected effect.
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