Free Transform Tool Tricks in Illustrator. Learn how the Free Transform Tool can alter your image. The Free Transform Tool (keyboard shortcut E) is a definite time saver. You can scale objects, rotate objects, reflect an object, shear an object, and change the perspective on an object. Trick #1: Scale Select an object. I’m using a dog as an example, and then select the Free Transform Tool (E). Tip: Hold Shift when dragging the handle and your object will stay in proportion. Trick #2: Rotate Select an object and then select the Free Transform Tool (E). Tip: Hold Shift when rotating and the angles will snap to 45 and 90 degree angles.
Trick #3: Reflect Select an object and then select the Free Transform Tool (E). Trick #4: Shear With your object selected, select the Free Transform Tool (E). If you’d like to shear your object horizontally, drag one of the top handles (while holding Opt + Command (Mac) or Control + Alt (Windows)) to the left or right. Trick #5: Perspective. How to create a realistic light ray tutorial. Photoshop - Create light shine out from window. Blog.