One Minute Map Hack: Emboss Basemap Imagery

Here’s how you can create a tactile and (I think) fun sense of depth for an imagery basemap using blend modes and effects in ArcGIS Online. 0:00 Start out with the World Imagery basemap. Give it a Brightness and Contrast effect of 196 and 96, respectively. And respectfully. 0:14 Via the layers, add the World Imagery again, from Living Atlas. 0:22 Also add a Living Atlas layer named Bathymetry Light. 0:28 Group the Bathymetry and Imagery layers, with Bathymetry on top. 0:35 Apply a Destination Out blend mode to the Bathymetry layer. This is effectively a clipping mask, so only the imagery’s land areas are visible in the group. 0:42 With the whole group selected, apply a black Drop Shadow effect. 0:49 Back in the group, select the bathymetry layer, and give it a Drop Shadow effect of white. This gives the land a bright edge. 1:00 Profit. Here’s a link to mine: Check out some other social channels where I share how-to’s and updates on random map adventures: