How can I enter image dimensions?

by Lee
(Palo Alto)

Q: All boxes for stating wanted size of an image do not work for me, using Photoshop Elements 8 as a novice. I am experienced with Photoshop 7, used with Mac system 10.4.3, but Photoshop 7 does not function with my new Mac System 10.6.4.

Trying to enter heights, widths and resolution, I see black rectangles to enter numbers; they frequently don't accept the numbers I key in; if I can see them they are different than what I keyed in. Sometimes it is difficult to view any number, correct or not. Just the black rectangle is there. And sometimes when I do see the number, it changes in front of my eyes.

This occurs, for example, when: setting the size when cropping (unless I use the pull-down menu of standard choices); also when changing image size using the Image>Resize menu. And it occurs whether I do or do not constrain the height-width ratio.

Your help will be greatly appreciated.


A: It sounds like Elements has gone completely bonkers on you Lee.

I would first of all try restarting my computer.

If you still have the problem you can delete your Preference file for Elements. Once you delete it a new file will be built automatically. Sometimes that file gets corrupted and Elements will act strange.

To delete your Preference file on the Mac press and hold the Option+Command+Shift keys as you launch Elements. On a PC it would be Alt+Control+Shift. A dialog box should appear asking if you want to delete Adobe Photoshop Elements Settings File. Click Yes and your Preference file will be rebuilt.

If it still acts strange I would contact Adobe support.

Good luck,
Rick