The Effects panel provides a single location from which you can apply photo effects. By default, the Effects panel is located on the taskbar in Quick and Expert mode. It displays thumbnail examples of the artwork or effects that you can add or apply to an image. Most sections offer a menu of category options and corresponding subcategories. There are two categories of effects you can choose from: Artistic and Classic.

Using the Graphics panel

The Graphics panel provides a single location from which you can apply artwork, theme decorations, and text styles to your images. To show the Graphics panel, choose Window > Graphics.

In the Graphics panel, the following sections provide various items that can enhance your images. For example, you can select from varieties of frames, backgrounds, graphics, shapes, and text. Under each tab, a drop-down helps in choosing the right frames, backgrounds, graphics, shapes, or text to reproduce.

Each section displays thumbnail examples of the artwork or effects that you can add or apply to an image. Most sections offer a menu of category options and corresponding subcategories.

Add stylized shapes or graphics to an image

When you add a shape or graphic to an image, the shape or graphic is a new layer and does not affect the original image.

Add an artistic background to an image

When you add an artistic background to an image, you replace the existing background layer. For example, you could use the selection tools to create a layer separating your family members from a kitchen background, and then replace the kitchen with a nature background.

Add a frame or theme to an image

When you add a frame or theme to a photo project, frames appear with a blank (gray) area for the image. Click and drag an image from the Photo Bin to the blank area.

About photo effects

Photo effects let you quickly create different looks for your images. In the Effects panel, choose one of the subcategories, such as Faded Photo, Panels, Monotone Color, Textures, or Vintage Photo.

Apply a variety of effects to the edges of a selected layer, or to a portion of a layer. A frame also creates a drop zone where you can add or change the contents easily.

Apply effects to a copy of a selected layer. Adding the Blizzard effect to an image makes it look like snow is falling. The Neon Glow effect turns the image into a dramatic neon picture. You can use Image effects, such as Oil Pastel or Soft Focus, to soften colors or blur an image. You can also combine Image effects, but you may be prompted to flatten layers first.

Apply texture layers to an image. You can add texture to a new, blank image as a background, or add a texture to an existing image. By arranging layers, and working with opacity and other layer tools, you can create interesting and attractive images.

Apply an effect

Artistic effects

In one click, transform your photos with effects inspired by famous works of art or popular art styles. Choose from amazing artistic effects that you can apply to all or part of your photo, and easily adjust the results for exactly the look you want. You can use artistic effects in Quick and Expert modes.

If you wish to apply an artistic effect to your photo, do the following:

Classic Effects

Enhance your photos in Photoshop Elements using Classic effects. Pick your favorite effect from 11 Classic effects in the Quick and Expert modes.

If you wish to apply a classic effect to your photo, do the following:

Add stylized text to an image

When you add text to an image, a text layer is added, so you can modify the text without affecting the original image.

Add graphics or effects to Favorites

When you see a graphic or effect that you would like to quickly access in the future, add it to the Favorites section of the Effects panel.