Creating subpictures in Photoshop


    You can create a three-color subpicture for a button in Photoshop. You include the layers that make up the subpicture in the button layer set. The subpicture layers each represent one color of the subpicture. These layers are used together to make a single image for the button. It is important to understand that the subpicture layers do not represent the activation states of the button. All three activation states use the same subpicture to highlight a button.

    The layer names must use the appropriate prefix: (=1) for Color 1, (=2) for Color 2, and (=3) for Color 3. Design the elements on these layers using solid colors and sharp edges. Do not use gradients, feathering, or anti-aliasing on the subpicture layers. The elements on these layers become a 2-bit overlay in which color gradations are not possible. (See Understanding layer name prefixes for Photoshop menus and About subpictures.)

    Adobe Encore DVD automatically generates a color set based on the three colors used in the subpicture layers. By applying the colors you want for the selected state of the button, you are able preview the highlighting color in Photoshop and save time editing the Color Set in Adobe Encore DVD. (For more information, see Defining color sets for menus and Using the Automatic color set.)

    Note: If the subpicture contains text and you might edit the button text in Adobe Encore DVD, it is best to keep the text alone on layer (=1). If you select the button property Create Text Subpicture, it will automatically update text on this layer when you edit the matching button text. However, to do so, it replaces the (=1) layer.