4.4. Emboss

4.4. Emboss
	4. Distort Filters

4.4.1. Overview

Figure 17.39. Applying example for the Emboss filter

Original image

Filter “Emboss” applied

This filter stamps and carves the active layer or selection, giving it relief with bumps and hollows. Bright areas are raised and dark ones are carved. You can vary the lighting.

You can use the filter only with RGB images. If your image is grayscale, it will be grayed out in the menu.

4.4.2. Starting filter

You can find this filter through Filters → Distorts → Emboss….

4.4.3. Options

Figure 17.40. “Emboss” filter options

Preview

All your setting changes will appear in the Preview without affecting the image until you click on OK. Don't keep Preview checked if your computer is too slow.

Function

Bumpmap: Relief is smooth and colors are preserved.
Emboss: It turns your image to grayscale and relief is more marked, looking like metal.

Azimuth

This is about lighting according to the points of the compass (0 - 360). If you suppose South is at the top of your image, then East (0°) is on the left. Increasing value goes counter-clockwise.

Elevation

That's height from horizon (0°), in principle up to zenith (90°), but here up to the opposite horizon (180°).

Depth

Seems to be the distance of the light source. Light decreases when value increases.