Easy Circular Selection

Attacking the center of the problem...

Making round selections in any image can be a frustrating task. Both elliptical and circular selections can prove inaccurate when created normally.

By using the Alt key, you can make a round selection from its center, instead of using one of the corners. Select the Elliptical Marquee Tool, by pressing 'M' or selecting it from the toolbar. Hold Alt down and click the center of the object you wish to select. Drag outwards to size your selection.

While you're dragging you have some more options. Holding down the Shift key will enforce a circular selection, instead of just an elliptical one. To move the selection without changing the image, and before you have accepted the final selection, hold the Space Bar and move the mouse cursor.

All these techniques can be used in any combination to make all kinds of circular selection easy. A summary of the main points is given below:

Normal Selection - Elliptical selection is formed as you drag with one of the corners placed where you clicked.

With ALT Key - Elliptical selection is formed as you drag with the center placed where you clicked.

With SHIFT Key - Selection is forced to be circular, instead of elliptical.

With SPACE BAR - Selection can be moved while it is still being defined, to position it exactly where you want it, and ensure the correct selection dimensions are achieved.

Kind Regards

Robert Redwood Robert Redwood - Bio
Your FREE guide to Photoshop Elements!
Get your free newsletter here!

A page about Easy Circular Selection in Photoshop