Render filters

The Render filters create 3D shapes, cloud patterns, refraction patterns, and simulated light reflections in an image. You can also manipulate objects in 3D space, create 3D objects (cubes, spheres, and cylinders), and create texture fills from grayscale files to produce 3D-like effects for lighting.

Clouds

Generates a soft cloud pattern using random values that vary between the foreground and the background colors. To generate a more stark cloud pattern, hold down Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac OS) as you choose Filter > Render > Clouds. When you apply the Clouds filter, the image data on the active layer is replaced.

Difference Clouds

Uses randomly generated values that vary between the foreground and back-ground color to produce a cloud pattern. The filter blends the cloud data with the existing pixels in the same way that the Difference mode blends colors. The first time you choose this filter, portions of the image are inverted in a cloud pattern. Applying the filter several times creates rib and vein patterns that resemble a marble texture. When you apply the Difference Clouds filter, the image data on the active layer is replaced.

Fibers

Creates the look of woven fibers using the foreground and background colors. You can control how the colors vary by sliding the Variance slider (a low value creates longer streaks of color, while a high value makes very short fibers with more varied distribution of color). The Strength slider controls how each fiber looks. A low setting creates spread out fibers, while a high setting produces short, stringy fibers. Click the Randomize button to change how the pattern looks; you can click the button a number of times until you find a pattern you like. When you apply the Fibers filter, the image data on the active layer is replaced with fibers.

Try adding a gradient map adjustment layer to colorize the fibers (see Using the Gradient Map command (Photoshop)).

Lens Flare

Simulates the refraction caused by shining a bright light into the camera lens. Specify a location for the center of the flare by clicking anywhere inside the image thumbnail or by dragging its cross hair.

Lighting Effects

Lets you produce myriad lighting effects on RGB images by varying 17 light styles, three light types, and four sets of light properties. You can also use textures from grayscale files (called bump maps) to produce 3D-like effects and save your own styles for use in other images. (See The Lighting Effects filter.)