INTRODUCTION - Here we create a signature with a white background, add the signature to a picture and then make the white background disappear.

OPEN PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS AND LOAD A PICTURE - Open Photoshop Elements in the Edit mode.  Hold the Ctrl key and tap the letter O key (Open) > navigate to a pictures folder and click a scenic picture > click Open > maximize the view with Ctrl + 0 (the number).

CREATE A BLANK LAYER – Click the ‘Create a new layer’ icon (upper left of Layers Palette) > press the D key (forces Black and White for Foreground and Background color) > press the X key (makes White the Foreground color) > choose the Paint Bucket Tool and click anywhere on the blank layer (paints the layer white).

WRITE YOUR SIGNATURE – Press the X key (makes Black the Foreground color) > select the Pencil Tool > make the pencil about the size of a pin head (use the ] key to make pencil larger or [ key to make it smaller) > write your name > select the Move Tool > reduce the size of your name and position it (drag it) to the lower right corner of the picture. (A more conventional way to create a signature is to write your signature on a piece of white paper.  Photograph your signature and save it as a .jpg file.  In Photoshop, crop around the signature and resave it.)

ERASE BACKGROUND OF SIGNATURE - If the lower part of the picture is dark, hold the Ctrl key and tap the I key (invert colors of signature and it’s background).  If the picture’s background is white, set the blending mode to Multiply.  If the background is black, set the blending mode to Lighten.  To set the Blending mode, press the ?located near top of Layers Palette and select the mode.

ADD BORDERS – Select the Background layer > click Image + Resize + Canvas Size > check Relative > set Width and Height = .2 inches, Canvas extension color: Black > click OK.  Repeat canvas resize with Width and Height = 2 inches, Canvas extension color: White. (You can vary border size, color or type to best enhance your picture)

CONCLUSION – Normally a signature would be added if you intend to sell your picture or perhaps give it to a relative or friend.  The same procedure could be used to add captions to a picture except you would use the Text Tool and type the caption.

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