Create Realistic Puddles in Photoshop

Easily create photorealistic and reflective puddles using 3D elements in Photoshop! Learn how to use 3D maps and the Vanishing Point filter to apply puddles into perspective, and then use layer masking and adjustments to create lifelike reflections.

In this tutorial, we will also learn how to use gradient maps and Curves to add shine and color to the puddle of water. I hope this video helps you. Thank you so much for watching :)

► Timestamps:
00:00 Why Can't We Use 3D?
00:50 Get the 3D Elements!
02:01 Define the Perspective
02:56 Put the Map into Perspective
04:58 Create Alpha Channel
06:12 Create the Base Reflection
07:17 Load the Puddle Mask
07:46 Coloring the Puddle of Water
10:29 Add Shine to Water
11:25 Slight Blur
12:29 Don't Ignore the Placement
13:05 Quick Recap

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It never even occurred to me that I don't know how to make puddles in Photoshop. Puddles are such important, and fun, parts of our environment. And now I know how to make them. Thank you!

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I want to supplement it if u may. Any surface (especially glass, water and etc.) have a mirroring effect that depends of angel of your looking. If its perpendicular (90' for example) the surface looks like surface (for example it takes shadows), but if your look's angel is sharp enough - surface transforms into mirror. Less angel -> more mirroring effect.

It works not only with surface like water. For example if you look in sunny day to your windowsill with different angles u will see this effect (especially if its flat and white).
It also works well with shallow puddles. Puddles under your feet almost haven't mirroring, but if u look at it 10 steps back it will be almost 100% mirror.