Image Editing in MS Word: Photoshop Alternatives
Exploring Image Editing Capabilities Within Microsoft Word
For those seeking image manipulation options without the complexities of software like Adobe Photoshop, alternative solutions exist.
Could Microsoft Word be one such alternative?
Word as a Surprisingly Capable Image Editor
While it's true that MS Word doesn't rival the extensive features of Photoshop, it possesses a selection of tools capable of sparking creativity.
The notion of using Word for image editing might initially seem unconventional, but it's a viable option for certain tasks.
Unlocking Creative Potential with Word 2017
MS Word 2017, and subsequent versions, include image editing functionalities that allow for a range of adjustments.
Let's delve into how these tools can be utilized to achieve impressive results and foster a creative workflow.
These features can be surprisingly effective for basic image modifications and enhancements.
Image Editing Capabilities within Microsoft Word
The core functionality for manipulating images within MS Word is centralized in the Picture Tools tab.
These Picture Tools are universally applicable to all image formats that are incorporated into a Word document.
Understanding the Picture Tools Functionality
While many of the options presented within the Picture Tools tab are intuitively understandable, the true potential lies in the advanced image editing possibilities.
These capabilities are further enhanced when utilized in conjunction with features such as Text Effects, unlocking a wider range of creative options.
The combination of these tools allows for significant image adjustments and stylistic enhancements directly within the Word environment.
It’s the synergy between basic adjustments and more complex features that makes image editing in Word surprisingly versatile.
Capturing Images Directly Within Microsoft Word
Many users are unaware, but Microsoft Word possesses a built-in screenshot functionality. This feature, along with similar tools in other Microsoft applications, allows for rapid image capture.
The tool enables you to quickly obtain a screen capture of active windows, encompassing browser windows, or elements directly on your desktop. These images can then be seamlessly integrated into your current document.
How Screen Clipping Works
When initiating Screen Clipping, the active window will briefly become semi-transparent. This "frosted" effect allows you to clearly visualize your selection area as you drag the cursor to define it.
The selected portion of the screen will then be captured and inserted into your Word document, streamlining the process of adding visual elements to your work.
This method provides a convenient alternative to using external screenshot utilities, keeping your workflow contained within the Microsoft Office suite.
Integrating Images Within Shapes
Visually compelling graphics can be produced by merging a shape with an image, effectively utilizing the shape as a framing element.
Begin by selecting Insert > Shape from the menu. Any shape can be chosen for this purpose, including those created using freeform drawing tools. Holding down the Shift key during shape creation ensures proportional dimensions.
Once the shape is present and selected on the canvas, the Drawing Tools become visible in the ribbon. From these tools, choose Shape Fill > Picture. Selecting Insert will embed the chosen image within the confines of the shape.
Further refinement of the graphic is possible through a right-click on the image, followed by selecting Format Shape. The Crop settings, for example, allow precise positioning of the image.
Adjustments to the Fill settings also enable control over the transparency level, offering additional customization options.
Achieving a Subdued Visual Effect with Images
Rather than simply adding an image directly to your document, a more refined aesthetic can be achieved by applying a softening effect to its edges. This technique creates the impression of a gradual transition where the image seamlessly blends with the surrounding page background.
To implement this, select the Soft Edge Rectangle option located within the Picture Styles menu to insert your desired image.
Further customization of the softening effect is possible. Right-click on the inserted image to access the Format Picture dialog box. Within this window, explore the available options, paying particular attention to the Glow and Soft Edges settings.
The Soft Edges setting allows for adjustments through both preset selections and a slider control, enabling precise control over the visual outcome. This effect is particularly striking when applied to monochromatic photographs.
Background Removal in Microsoft Word
The Remove Background function is integrated within the Picture Tools suite.
This tool allows for the isolation of image subjects by eliminating unwanted background elements.
Adjust the handles located on the bounding box to encompass the desired portions of the image, effectively defining what should be retained.
Drag these lines to precisely include the areas you want to preserve and exclude those slated for removal.
While effective for straightforward shapes, more intricate subjects may require careful adjustment for optimal results.
Refining the Selection
Utilize the Mark Areas to Keep option to specifically identify the sections of the image that should remain.
Conversely, employ Mark Areas to Remove to designate the areas intended for background removal.
Should adjustments be necessary, the Delete Mark function provides a means to correct any misplaced markers.
Finalizing the Process
Upon achieving the desired selection, click Keep Changes to apply the background removal and exit the tool.
This action finalizes the edits, leaving you with an image featuring a transparent or modified background.
Leveraging "Layers" Within Microsoft Word
While Microsoft Word's image editing capabilities aren't as comprehensive as those found in Photoshop, a functional alternative to layers exists. Word provides a feature known as In Front of Text, accessible through the Picture Tools > Wrap Text menu.
Utilizing In Front of Text enables the stacking of multiple images, effectively mimicking the functionality of layers and facilitating the application of unique visual effects.
A key technique involves removing the background from the topmost image. This allows the underlying image to become visible, showcasing any artistic modifications applied to it.
The Remove Background tool is instrumental in this process. Begin by designating Mark Areas to Keep, then identify Mark Areas to Remove to specify the portions of the image to be discarded. Confirm your selections by choosing Keep Changes.
Subsequently, various color adjustments – such as saturation alterations or recoloring – and artistic effects can be applied to the bottom image. This allows for the creation of compelling combinations, like applying a sepia tone to the base image while preserving the color of the image positioned above it.
A Useful Alternative, Though Not a Full Substitute
The capabilities of images within MS Word extend far beyond what this article can cover. Consider this a foundational guide, a starting point for exploring the possibilities of graphic manipulation. Certain common image editing functions have been intentionally omitted, such as applying artistic filters.
Functions like adjusting brightness, contrast, or introducing blur effects are readily available, as is the option to preserve the initial, unedited image alongside its modified counterpart through linked tutorials.
Are you familiar with a particularly impressive image editing technique achievable in MS Word? Please share your insights with our readers.
Image courtesy of Dmitry Molchanov via Shutterstock.com
