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Photoshop Processing

How to Center an Image in Photoshop

Szilard Kovacs
by Szilard Kovacs
Last updated: 21/10/2024-3 min read
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Learning to Center an Image in Photoshop can greatly enhance your design output. This guide will help you master this vital skill, leading to more professional and visually appealing projects. Let’s get started.

Step 1. Selecting the Move Tool

To begin, select the Move Tool from the toolbar on the left. The icon looks like a small arrow crossed with a plus sign.

A woman with glasses, set against a grey background and overlaid with a computer interface for photo editing software.

Step 2. Unlocking the Background Layer

The background layer is typically locked by default. To unlock it, locate the Layers panel on the right, click the lock icon next to the Background layer.

A background image selected in an editing program, and the interface elements of the software are visible.

Step 3. Activating the Transform Controls

Now, we need to activate the Transform Controls. This can be done in one of two ways.

Step 3.1. Using the Options Bar

Find the Options Bar at the top of your screen and check the box labeled “Show Transform Controls”.

Adobe Photoshop, with the interface open and displaying various tools and options.

Step 3.2. Using the Keyboard Shortcut

For a quicker method, you can use the keyboard shortcut. Simply press Ctrl + T (Windows) or Command + T (Mac).

Step 4. Centering the Image

Now it’s time to center the image. This can also be done in two ways.

Step 4.1. Using the Alignment Options in the Options Bar

With your image selected, go to the Options Bar at the top and click on the Align vertical centers and Align horizontal centers icons. This method is great for aligning graphics or texts.

A woman in a professional setting, with her portrait overlaid on a stock photo.

Step 4.2. Using the Rulers and Guides

Another method is using rulers and guides. First, make sure your rulers are visible by going to View > Rulers. 

A woman in a business setting, with an overlay of graphical software tools for graphic design.

Then, click on the ruler and drag a guide to the center of your canvas.

Adobe Photoshop program with a womans portrait being edited, set against the software interface.

Step 5. Deactivating the Transform Controls

After centering the image, deselect the “Show Transform Controls” box in the Options Bar to deactivate the Transform Controls.

Step 6. Applying the Changes

Finally, apply the changes. Press Enter (Windows) or Return (Mac) to apply. It’s also possible to apply changes by double-clicking inside the transform box. Your image is now centered in Photoshop.

An image editing software with an image of a woman posing.

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