Auto Class Composite uses one shape layer to create the targets for all pictures in the composite, therefore it is very important to create the first one with the effects, size and form you need. To do this please use the rectangle tool in Photoshop and his variations like rounded rectangle, oval form or abstract form. You may even create your own forms and we have available a tutorial to show you how ( https://www.autoclasscomposite.com/site/custom-shapes/).
Once this first shape has been created you may use Auto Class Composite to create copies of it for all the images you want to place in the composite, please remember that the filling order for Auto Class Composite is the one used at Photoshop’s layer palette and by using Auto Class Composite to create the copies you ensure that this is the order being used later.
Please select in Photoshop the shape layer you have just created and click at the Create target layers in Auto Class Composite (at top right of the main window).
The tool will show the current shape layer as a green rectangle .
You have to input the number of images (please notice that you may create different shapes for teachers and students by using this tool twice after having selected the appropriate shape layer in Photoshop). The application will calculate the best distribution in rows and columns for the input number of pictures regarding the size of the currently selected shape layer, including a standard space between rows of 10%.
Now you may drag the blue lines at the design area to set the margins and increase or decrease the size of the shape layers. If Recalculate is enabled each time you drag a margin the application will recalculate for rows and cols.
A list showing the number of images to be placed at each row is shown, you may edit the number of columns at each row, in case the total number doesn’t match the one introduced before calculated the sum at the list bottom will be shown in red. You may add new rows or delete them by using the bottom + and – buttons, then set the number of pictures for each row and take care the sum matches the number of pictures needed. All changes will be reflected in the preview at the design area.
Once you are happy with the design click at the Generate shape layers button and the software will create in Photoshop the needed copies of the selected shape layer to accommodate all images in the composite