Alpha transparent PNG images and drop shadows.......please assist

from WinCustomize Forums
Would greatly appreciate some expert knowhow.

Could somebody please explain how do I get transparent shadows with alpha transparent images to work properly on top of any coloured background (desktop). I get grey shadows...flat grey instead of black and blending into the background.

The alpha transparent images are used for the rainlendar and sysmetrix skins. I have no problems with the skins just shadows. Btw, the backgound to the png images is clear and shadows appear to be working until I apply the skin on the desktop. The skin retains transparency on application but not the drop shadows.

Using PS or PSP.
Thank you in advance.

skinning
4,171 views 6 replies
Reply #1 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Sounds like your not saving them in the proper format or bit depth.

translucent shadows need 32bit.(png or tga)

or your desktop settings have gotten the color settings reduced somehow.Should be highest 32 bit.
Reply #2 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Thanks IR, image properties state that png's are 32 bit. Maybe I need to check my desktop color settings...I'll check all again.
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Reply #3 from WinCustomize Forums Top
IR, all is in 32 bit. But I worked it out. I use tga images from wb's start panel to do a matching rainy or sysmetrix. Convert tga to png. It is the existing shadow from the start panel that actually causes a problem...it simply does not convert to blend in as gradient...it just becomes a greyed out transluscent image instead (with a borderline).

If there is no other way, I'll have to erase the existing shadows and create new drop shadows.
Reply #4 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I think I see...sometimes tga.s from blinds are messed up somehow...they dont remain truly translucent.Even in PS7 I get the occasional tga that opens in PS with a white background.
Yet another reason I wish WB would use png...so much better an easier to work with,smaller file size too.  

Try saving the tga to a different format...reopen and save as png.
Reply #5 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Or...try ctrl click to select on the layer...rightclick...layer via cut...delete the leftover layer and resave.