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Scale two dependent layers (parenting)


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Guido167

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Hi,

Just wondering if there is a way to scale two layers dependently in Photoshop. The same as in the After Effects 'parenting' function.
For example, I have one rectangle that is 2x3cm and beneath that is another rectangle layer of 6x8cm. Now what I want is that if I scale the small rectangle layer (the 2x3 one) that the other rectangle layer also scales but remains in proportion (the same ratio) with the small layer.

I really need help on this and I don't know where to ask, so I hope this is the right place.
Otherwise please let me know if you know another place where I can find help on this topic.

Thank you!
 
Select both layers (highlight)
and then use the transform tool they will both react to the transformation same way
 
That is not what I mean. I want to transform the smaller rectangle (because I know the width it has to have) and by doing so I want the larger rectangle to keep in proportion.
 
So what you're saying is you want to scale down one to a certain dimension then the other? If you were just scaling down both at the same time no problem, but if it's a different dimension you want for a separate layer you will have to do one layer at a time. perhaps I don't understand what you're saying, hopefully another member well
 
Your question is confusing both ways that you explain it, because iDad has given a good answer. However, if you are only rescaling one . . . different story.

Are the rectangles in the proportions that you want to begin with? If not, you will have to make that so as PS can't guess. I'm not trying to be a smart alec. Once they are in proportion, or if they are already in proportion, then you can use the transform function. If you only want to scale the one layer but keeps its proportions, then hold down the shift key and resize using a corner handle.
 
Clare your right, however, I think the problem is that there is "known" specific size for the smaller rectangle. If you select both rectangle layers and then transform, the bounding box will surround both rectangles (which are already in proportion) and eliminate the ability to scale the smaller rectangle to a known specific size.

As iDad pointed out, you will have to scale the rectangles separately.
 
How about just resizing the picture but not constrained. That is, Image>Image Size, un-check constrain proportions and input the required dimensions for the overall project. Would this not work? I may not understand what is required but from what I think the request is this seems like a simple way to get it done.

EDIT: I just re-read the OP and it sounds like un-ticking constrain proportions may not be nec. Anyway, I hope this helps.
 
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Sam, I was not suggesting transforming both layers simultaneously. If you use guidelines, why can't you then simply transform one rectangle to the dimension you want using shift to keep the proportions?
 
Clare said:
Sam, I was not suggesting transforming both layers simultaneously.
Click to expand...

Your right again, I'm not suggesting otherwise but the OP is! They want to do it simultaneously!

And......Your a genius! You have hit the key to solving this problem, guidelines!

Set the gudelines to the exact dimensions you desire and then highlight both layers and transform them using shift + alt/option to maintain proportions, and match the desired rectangle to the desired and outlined dimensions of the guidelines.
 
LOL, for some reason the point of this request keeps going over my head. I think I'm reading and getting it but . . . not. Oldtimers I guess. Thanks Sam.
 
Kinda slow in the uptake tonite....

Can't the result be achieved by simply grouping the layers and selecting the smaller rectangle layer to transform it? The object in the other layer will transform in proportion.
 
Oldtimers here too,,,,,I still do not get what the OP is requesting that you folks seem to feel has been answered. It seems to me that there is a need to enlarge the small rectangle and keep the large one in proportion. Is this not correct? Would not scaling the entire canvas up do this? Or is it the ratio thing I am missing. Is the OP saying (for example) I want to double the size of the small rectangle which would quadruple the size of the large one?

Never have been much good with anything other than basic math related so maybe this is my problem here.
 
It has been answered, if he needs to increase or decrease (or whatever the edit) one more than the other then more than one layer can not be used at a time...... That's way I see it. Old has nothing to do with it :bustagut:
 
Am I missing something? Thanks anyway?
 
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