Jandjeby14

I want to add labels to some photos by putting a white or colored box with the label on the photo. How do I do that in Elements 10? Or is there a better way when there is no suitable place on the photo with consistent dark or light color to use the type tool? John

Festina Lente Loc: Florida & Missouri

Before getting into how, I prefer adding a white band to the bottom of the image and inserting the text there instead of in a distracting box on the image portion of the photo.
I assume you want to label them somehow (names, places, etc.).

But if you are adding specific notes, cartoon text ballons, or something similiar directly on the image, then Elements 10 can handle that also.
I'll let another UHHer walk you thru the detailed steps in Elements.

JAW Loc: LA

Do you want to add a label - in a box below the photo or actually on the photo itself? Just trying to get more specific so we understand what you meant by "I want to add labels to some photos by putting a white or colored box with the label on the photo". "On the photo" - what is your interpretation of this phrase - need specifics.

Ziza Loc: USA

John,

If you want to add a label onto your photo, you can do it even if there is no suitable place (consistent color) in the photo for you to use the Type tool.

1. Open your photo.

2. Create a new layer by either going to Layer>New>Layer or by clicking on the "Create a new layer" icon (the little square with a folded-back corner) in the Layers panel.

3. Activate the Rectangular Marquee tool (M). Draw the box for your label. If you want a square box, hold the Shift key as your draw it.

4. Go to Edit>Fill Selection. Choose a color appropriate to your photo so that the box will stand out.

5. If necessary, use the Move Tool to reposition the box. You can also adjust its size by using the Free Transform command (Ctrl-T, Command-T on a Mac).

6. Select>Deselect (Ctrl-D, Command-D on a Mac).

7. Activate the Type tool and enter your text.

Jandjeby14

THANKS for the note on adding label boxes. I must learn to use layers with more comfort! John

Ziza Loc: USA

John,

You are most welcome! I am pleased to help.

mafadecay Loc: Wales UK

Good answer! I would do exactly this I might be tempted to maybe do the text step 7 first and then step 3 so that the colored label can fit the text perfectly. Just an idea.

Also if you want a white box at bottom here is how to:

1. Make sure white is selected in the colour pallet.

2. Activate the crop tool and that there are no numbers selected in the length & width boxes.

3. Drag the crop to encompass your entire image but do not apply the crop yet.

4. Now almost as if like streaching the paper down hover and click in the middle bottom end extend the page larger than it is.

5. Hit the enter key to apply the crop.

6. Now go with the text tool and drag in your newly created panel at the bottom.

Ziza Loc: USA

mafadecay,

Thanks! I tried what you suggested re Steps 7 and 3 in my instructions. I think it is a great idea. I never thought of that. I owe you one.

mafadecay Loc: Wales UK

You are most welcome.

In the past I have done it your way and later decided the txt would look Beyer in a larger font spilling off the label box. The I was trying to add bits here and there to make the box fit. My way the box will always fit as its added last.