How can I give a layer a shadow that will provide depth?

Question

I am trying to create a design like the following image:

I tried to replicate this by creating another layer and changing the blending options (adding a drop shadow) for it. This is the image I ended up with (missed that separation kind of design), I was not satisfied with the results.

Here are the settings I used for my attempt:

^{Click image for full resolution}

How can I produce the 3D effect done in the first image?

Answer 1

It simply looks like a standard, almost default, drop shadow layer style.

In your case, it would appear you've got the image cropped so tight any shadow won't appear. You need to extend the visible area.