Question on drop shadows and masks

[cendres]

Well I think the problem is solved! Doug taking your recommendation and applying the layer mask solved the problem I was having with the andromeda shadow filter. It now gives me a good drop shadow.

As mentioned, I was only having the problem on certain occasions with photoshop internal drop shadow. I do think that it is designed to work in conjuntion with masks but for what ever reason this problem occured from time to time. My guess is that if I applied the layer mask I probably would not have the problem.

In either case, thank you to everyone for your suggestions and help - Carl