Create a pixel stretch effect in Photoshop

Want to add more movement and energy to your product photos? The pixel stretch effect is a fun post-production technique that turns a tiny strip of your subject into a bold, flowing graphic element.

It’s perfect for making product shots feel more editorial, dynamic, and scroll-stopping.

Here’s how to create the effect in Photoshop.

Step 1: Open your image in Photoshop

Start by opening your image in Photoshop.

This effect works best on images with a clear subject and strong colour details. Packaging, labels, shadows, highlights, and bold graphics will give you a more interesting stretch.

Step 2: Select the subject

Before creating the pixel stretch, isolate your main subject.

Use the Object Selection Tool, then choose Select Subject.

You can also go to:

Select > Subject

Step 3: Duplicate the selected subject

With the subject selected, duplicate it onto a new layer.

Shortcut:

Mac: Command + J

Windows: Ctrl + J

This creates a cut-out version of the subject on its own layer.

Rename this layer something like Subject or Can to keep your file organized.

Step 4: Choose the Single Column Marquee Tool

Next, select the Single Column Marquee Tool from the toolbar.

You may need to click and hold the Rectangular Marquee Tool to find it.

This tool selects a 1-pixel-wide vertical strip from your image. That tiny strip is what you’ll stretch into the pixel effect.

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Step 5: Select a colourful part of the subject

Click on the part of the subject with the most colour variation.

This gives the stretched pixels more depth and makes the final effect more eye-catching.

Avoid selecting a plain area, because it will create a flat-looking stretch.

Step 6: Duplicate the pixel strip

With the 1-pixel strip selected, duplicate it onto a new layer.

Shortcut:

Mac: Command + J

Windows: Ctrl + J

This creates a new layer containing only that thin strip of pixels.

Rename it Pixel Stretch.

Step 7: Stretch the pixel layer

Select your new pixel layer and activate Free Transform.

Shortcut:

Mac: Command + T

Windows: Ctrl + T

Drag the side handle left or right to stretch the pixels horizontally.

You should now see the tiny strip turn into a wide band of colour.

Step 8: Warp the stretch

To make the stretch feel more fluid, warp it into shape.

Go to:

Edit > Transform > Warp

Then move the handles to curve the stretched pixels around the product.

Step 9: Place the stretch behind the subject

In the Layers panel, move your pixel stretch layer underneath the duplicated subject layer.

Your layer order should look like this:

1. Subject cut-out
2. Pixel stretch
3. Original image/background

This makes the stretch look like it is coming from behind the product instead of sitting on top of it.

Step 10: Duplicate, flip, and warp again

To build a fuller effect, duplicate the pixel stretch layer.

You can then:

• Flip it
• Rotate it
• Resize it
• Warp it into a different direction
• Place it on the other side of the subject

Pro Tip

The most important part of this effect is the pixel strip you choose. Select an area with strong colour variation, contrast, and detail. The better the strip, the more interesting the final stretch will look.