Adding shadows to objects in your PowerPoint presentations can make them stand out and appear more three-dimensional. However, too many shadows can also make your slides look overly busy and distracting. In this article, we’ll walk through the steps for adding and removing shadows on shapes, images, text boxes, and other objects in PowerPoint.
Why Use Shadows in PowerPoint?
Here are some of the benefits of using shadows strategically in your PowerPoint presentations:
- Make objects appear to pop off the slide with dimension and depth
- Draw attention to important elements you want to highlight
- Separate foreground images/elements from the background
- Improve text readability by adding contrast
- Enhance the overall visual appeal
So by using shadows judiciously, you can guide your audience’s eyes to the most significant parts of your slides.
How to Add a Shadow to an Object
Adding a shadow to an object like a shape, picture, text box, SmartArt graphic, or other element is easy in PowerPoint. Follow these simple steps:
- Select the object(s) you want to add a shadow to.
- Go to the “Format” tab on the ribbon.
- Click the “Shape Effects” button (for shapes/SmartArt) or “Picture Effects” button (for images).
- Select the “Shadow” option from the dropdown menu.
- Choose one of the preset shadow styles. Hover over each option to preview how it will look.
That’s it! The shadow effect will be instantly applied. You can customize the look of the shadow further by clicking “Shadow Options” in the dropdown menu. Here you can tweak settings like transparency, blur, distance from object, etc.
How to Remove a Shadow
Removing a shadow from an object in PowerPoint is just as easy:
- Select the object with the shadow you want to delete.
- Follow the same steps above to open the “Shadow” menu.
- Choose the “No Shadow” option.
The shadow will immediately disappear from the object!
Tips for Using Shadows Effectively
Here are some best practices for working with shadows in PowerPoint:
Don’t overdo it. Use shadows sparingly, only on elements you really want to stand out. Too many competing shadows will diminish their impact.
Be consistent. Stick to one or two shadow styles that coordinate well. Don’t use radically different shadow effects on the same slide.
Consider directionality. Make sure the light source of the shadow makes sense for the orientation of the object.
Emphasize key points. Use shadows to draw attention to important text, headings, images, etc. that support your main message.
Enhance readability. Shadows under text boxes can make the text easier to read, especially over busy slide backgrounds.
Creative Uses for Custom Shadows
While PowerPoint offers preset shadow styles, you can create custom shadow effects to take your designs up a notch. Here are some creative examples:
Long Shadows
Extend the shadow distance to create a popular “long shadow” effect. This works well behind large text or shapes.
Color Matching
Match the shadow color to a dominant shade in your slide’s color theme, like in the image background.
Object Shadows
Customize the shadow to the approximate shape of the object itself for a more realistic effect.
Layered Shadows
Use multiple, layered shadows behind the same object with different levels of transparency.
Conclusion
The ability to add or remove shadows on objects gives you more control over the look of your PowerPoint slides. Use these techniques carefully to highlight important elements, improve readability, and add visual interest without going overboard. A few well-placed shadows can take your designs from flat to fabulous!
With the right balance of effects, you can create professional, visually-compelling presentations that engage your audiences. So start experimenting with shadows on your next PowerPoint project.
