How to Rotate an Image in Photoshop

In the world of digital design and photography, Photoshop reigns supreme, but even the most seasoned users can stumble upon simple tasks such as image rotation. Whether you’re correcting a slanted horizon, or simply want to change the orientation of your photo for a creative project, knowing how to rotate an image efficiently in Photoshop is a crucial skill. This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to do just that. From selecting your image to fine-tuning the rotation and applying the final touches, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started.

Step 1. Open the Free Transform Tool

Now that we’ve selected the image, let’s move on to the Free Transform tool. Go to Edit > Free Transform, or press Ctrl + T (Command + T on Mac) to open it.

Step 2. Rotate the Image

Time to rotate! There are two ways to do this.

Step 2.1 Rotate Using the Free Transform Handles

Click and hold one of the corner handles of the bounding box around your image. As you move your cursor, the image will start to rotate.

Step 2.2 Rotate Using the Options Bar

Alternatively, you can use the rotation angle box in the Options bar. Just type in your desired degree and hit Enter.

Step 3. Confirm the Rotation

Happy with the rotation? Great! Click the checkmark in the Options bar to confirm it.

Step 4. Fine-Tuning the Rotation

If you need to make minor adjustments, just repeat steps 2 and 3 until you’re satisfied.

Step 5. Use the Crop Tool

Got some extra space after rotating? Use the Crop tool. Click the Crop tool icon (it’s the one that looks like two intersecting right angles) and adjust the area you want to keep.