How to add a shadow or reflection to an object in Pages, Numbers, and Keynote on iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Learn how to apply a shadow effect or add a reflection to objects in Pages, Numbers, or Keynote on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Adding shadow to an image in a Pages document

When you work with objects like images, text boxes, or shapes, you can do a lot to improve their appearance in Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. One way to do this is to add a shadow effect, which gives it depth. Another way is to add a reflection to an object, which can give it that mirrored look.

If you want to do a bit more with the objects you use by adding shadows or reflections, this tutorial shows you how in all three apps on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Add shadow or reflection in Pages, Numbers, and Keynote

The steps to add a shadow or reflection to an object in Pages, Numbers, and Keynote are identical across all three apps on iOS and macOS.

On iPhone and iPad

1) Open the app and document containing the object you want to work with.

2) Tap to select the object and then select the Style button (brush icon) from the top.

3) In the pop-up that appears, turn on the toggle for Shadow and select a style. You can also turn the toggle for Reflection and use the slider to adjust the percentage.

Keynote Object Add Shadow or Reflection iPhone

You should then see your object with the shadow or reflection.

On Mac

1) Open your document, workbook, or slideshow.

2) Click to select the object and then click the Format button on the top.

3) In the sidebar on the right, select the Style tab.

4) To add shadow, you can click the box next to that option and pick from the various styles.

Keynote Object Add Shadow Mac

You can also click the arrow next to Shadow, and in the drop-down box, select Drop Shadow, Contact Shadow, or Curved Shadow from the options. With these, you can adjust things like blur, offset, opacity, angle, or perspective, depending on the style you choose.

Keynote Object Drop Shadow Mac

5) To add Reflection, simply check that box and use the slider or arrows to adjust the percentage.

Keynote Object Add Reflection Mac

With each change and adjustment you make for a shadow or reflection, you’ll see the changes immediately. This lets you continue to readjust until you get the exact look you want.

If you want to add something extra to your objects in Pages, Numbers, or Keynote, keep the shadow and reflection features in mind. They can really spruce up objects that could use a little boost in their appearance.

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