In today’s tutorial you’ll be brushing up on your photo manipulation skills, by creating a mystical tribal warrior. This tutorial is packed full of useful techniques, from blending tactics, to digital painting, lighting, layout sketching and much more.

We hope you love the final outcome, and get a lot from today’s lesson.

What You’ll Be Creating:

Here’s a look at the outcome you’ll be able to produce by the end of this lesson:

Step 1

In this step we are going to create the background scene.

1) Import the riverside image on to the canvas and place it as shown, then erase the top end of the image with a soft eraser.

2) Now import the image of clouds on to the canvas and place it behind the previous image.

Step 2

In this step we are going to color correct both the riverside image.

1) Select the riverside image and open the Exposure adjustment layer and set the Gamma Correction level to 0.81.

2) Now open the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer and reduce the Saturation level to -47. Since this is a cloudy scene we don’t want the scene to be colorful and bright, on the contrary we want it to be dramatic with low saturated colors.

3) Now by using the Curves adjustment layer set the RGB curves as shown.

Step 3

In this step we are going to color correct the sky and blend it with the riverside image.

1) With the sky layer selected open the Curves adjustment layer and set the RGB curves as shown.

2) Now by using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer set the Saturation level to -61.

3) Now to enhance the shadows of the cloud layer open the Exposure settings and set the Gamma Correction level to 0.81.

Step 4

In this step we are going to extract the model from the source image without compromising any details.

1) Import the image of the model into Photoshop and cut the image as shown using the Pen Tool (P) or Lasso Tool (L). Leave the complex areas of the image to Refine Edge option.

2) Now select a mask around the model and open the Refine Edge option and set the Adjust Edge settings as shown. Then by using the Refine Radius Tool, paint the complex areas of the image and let the Refine Edge option work its magic. Once you are satisfied with the result, export it into a new layer.

Step 5

In this step we are going to integrate the model image in the scene.

1) Import the image of the model on to the working canvas and place it as shown.

2) Reduce the brightness of the model by decreasing the brightness of the layer to -92 using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer.

3) Now by using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer set the Saturation level to -65.

4) To enhance the shadows on the model, open the Exposure settings and set the Exposure level to -0.02 and Gamma Correction level to 0.75.

5) With the model layer selected open Curves and set the RGB curves as shown.

Step 6

In this step we will be working on painting the shadows digitally. Use of a digital pen tablet is highly recommended.

1) Create a new layer on the top of the Layers palette and paint dark edges around the scene as shown.

2) Now create a new layer above the model layer and select the soft brush and make sure the pen pressure option is ON. Then gently paint the shadows as shown.

Step 7

In this step we are going to add bushes in the scene, which are placed closer to the lens view in order to create a depth of field to the scene and make it look natural.

1) Import the image of the bushes on to the working canvas and place the bushes at the bottom of the scene as shown.

2) With the bushes layer selected go to Filters>Blur>Gaussian Blur and set the blur Radius level to 9.1px.

3) Similarly add few more bushes in the scene as shown.

4) Now create a new layer under the bushes layers and paint thin fog as shown at the bottom of the scene.

5) Now import image of tall grass and place it in the scene as shown. Make sure to place this layer under the previously created fog layer.

6) Now add Gaussian blur of Radius 1.5px to the tall grass layer.

Step 8

In this step we will be color correcting the previously added grass and plants.

1) Group all the bushes and grass layers into a single folder and add a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to it. Then set the Saturation level to -35.

2) Now add an Exposure adjustment layer to the folder and set the Gamma Correction level to 0.69.

Step 9

In this step we will be creating distant hills in the scene.

1) Import the image of distant hills on to the working canvas and place the image on the horizon of our scene as shown. Then by using the Magic wand and Eraser tool erase the sky and other unwanted part of the image.

2) With the distant hills layer selected open Hue/Saturation and set the Saturation level to -73.

3) Now by using the Curves adjustment layer set the RGB curves as shown.

4) Since the scene is filled with fog and clouds the distant hills should be almost mixed with the fog in the scene. Hence add an Exposure adjustment layer and set the Offset level to +0.1589 and Gamma Correction level to 1.25.

Step 10

In the following steps we will be creating few vertical tower hills in the scene. So, it’s always better to have a blueprint of the concept before proceeding with it. Hence by using the Line tool draw the prospective lines and draw a rough sketch of the tower hills in a new layer as shown.

Step 11

In this step we are going to create the tower hill based on the concept created in the previous step.

1) Cut a rough patch of the distant hill from the source image and import it on to the working canvas and then trim it in the shape of the concept outline.

2) Create a new layer over the hill layer and paint dark shadow on the left side of the hill as shown.

Step 12

In this step we are going to create a reflection of the hill on the water surface.

1) Duplicate the previously created hill and flip it vertically and place it as shown.

2) Now erase the inverted hill image as shown. The reflection might not be very clear in the scene, but every small detail covered can lead to a more believable outcome.

3) Now merge all the hill layers and add an Exposure adjustment layer to it and set the Offset level to +0.0346 and Gamma Correction level to 1.06.

4) To add depth to the scene and hill, add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 1.6px.

Step 13

Similarly create a couple more of the tower hills as shown based on the concept sketch.

Step 14

Now create a new layer above the hills layers and paint thick fog as shown in the scene, using the fog brush.

Step 15

In this step we are going to create another tower hill with an operating base on the top of the hill.

1) Draw a rough sketch of the new tower hill in a new layer as shown.

2) Now import the roughly cut texture of a hill and place it as shown in the scene.

3) Using the Lasso Tool (L) cut the hill texture in the shape of the tower hill as per the sketch.

4) Create a new shadow layer on the top of the hill layer and paint the shadow as shown on the left side of the hill.

5) To make it blend with the environment create an Exposure adjustment layer to the tower hill and set the Offset level to +0.0161 and Gamma Correction level to 1.17.

Step 16

In this step we are going to create a dome on the top of the previously created tower hill.

1) Cut the image of the dome from the source image using the Magic Wand Tool (W) and place it on the tower hill as shown.

2) Now create a new layer over the dome layer and paint dark shadow on the left side of the dome as shown.

Step 17

In this step we are going to color correct the dome to blend it with the environment.

1) With the dome layer selected open the Exposure settings and set the Offset level to +0.0483 and the Gamma Correction level to 1.24.

2) Using the Hue/Saturation de-saturate the dome by -55.

3) Also we don’t do not want the dome to be too bright, hence reduce the Brightness of the dome to -46 using Brightness/Contrast.

Step 18

In this step we are going to paint the base structure of the dome. Which supports the dome on the top of the hill.

1) Using the color #4d4d4d paint the base structure on a new layer as shown.

2) Now create another layer on top of the dome layer and paint few randomly placed box as shown. (The dome is actually a storage dock that collects supplies from the trade ships and stores there, till its necessary.).

Step 19

In this step we are going to add final details to the dome and the hill.

1) Now paint some random bushes on the hill using the color # 50524f.

2) Now merge all the dome and hill layers together and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 1.0px.

Step 20

In this step we are going to create a leaf ball floating just above the left hand of the model.

1) Create a new layer over the model layer and paint a rough sketch of the leaf ball as shown.

2) Now create another new layer under the sketch layer and paint the leaves of the ball as shown. This is a slight
time consuming process but worth it.

3) By using a soft round brush paint dark shadow on the left side of the ball as shown.

Step 21

In this step we are going to add texture to every leaf of the ball individually. This is the most time consuming process, but the out of it will make you forget of the time spent.

1) Import the image of a leaf texture and place it on the leaf ball as shown.

2) Now cut the leaf texture in the shape of the leaf of the ball.

3) Follow the same procedure on every leaf and complete the texturing.

4) Group all the leaf ball layers including the textures into a folder and add an Exposure adjustment layer to it. Then set the Exposure level to -0.57 and Gamma Correction to 0.70.

5) Now add Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the folder and set the Saturation level to -35.

Step 22

Slightly reduce the intensity of the black in the scene by increasing the Offset value to +0.0023. It’s just a minor unseen detailing, which adds to a dramatic outcome in the end.

Step 23

In this step we are going to create leaves flying towards the leaf ball. To create an illusion, that the leaf ball is being formed by random leaves from the surrounds. Just like the Goku creates his energy ball in Dragonball Z.

1) Import an image of a leaf on to the working canvas and place it on the left side of the scene as shown.

2) Since the leaf is flying towards the leaf ball, add a Motion Blur with Angle 60 and Distance 31px.

3) Now by using the Exposure settings set the Offset value to +0.0299. This will blend the leaf perfectly with the environment.

4) Similarly add few more leaves in the scene.

Congratulations, You’re All Done!

Awesome job making it this far! You should be proud of what you’ve created. Show it off to your friends and colleagues and get some feedback.

You can also comment here with your version, or any questions you had about the techniques used. We love to see what you guys create and we’re always here to give helpful feedback and tips to help you to improve.

You’ll learn how to create a beautiful nature scene, featuring some crazy weather, a complex background structure and some lovely touches of detail.

With this tutorial we will be covering key topics like:

• Matte Painting.
• Digital hair painting.
• Advanced cutting techniques.
• Creating water droplets.
• Effective lighting and shadow techniques.

Let’s get started shall we?

What You’ll Be Creating:

Here’s a look at the outcome you’ll be able to produce by the end of this lesson:

Step 1

Create a new canvas in Photoshop and draw a rough sketch of the concept in a new layer.

Step 2

In this step we will be creating the BG landscape using multiple images.

1) Import the image of the river on to the canvas and place it on the left side of the scene as shown.

2) Now import another image of the same river and place it on the right side. Then by using the Eraser tool(E) erase the sharp side of the image as shown to blend the two images perfectly together. (Note: While aligning the river images, make sure the wave in the same line. This could help in proper aligning.)

Step 3

In this step we will be removing the boats from the scene using the Stamp tool (S).

1) Create a new layer above the river layer and select the stamp tool, then set the Aligned Sample option to Current & Below. Now press and hold the “alt” button (Same on both Mac and PC) and select the adjacent area of the boat and clone out the boat as shown.

2) Similarly clone out the other boat from the scene.

Step 4

In this step we will be separating the sky into a new layer for further advancement in the landscape development.

1) Before we proceed further merge all the landscape layers, then by using the Lasso Tool (L) select the entire landscape image leaving the sky as shown. (Note: Selection of the hill need not be accurate.).

2) Now open the Refine Edge option and paint the edges of the hills and trees using the Refine Radius tool to get the perfect edge selection. To get the perfect edge selection set the Contrast level to 2% , Shift Edge to -7% and Edge Detection Radius to 0.3px. Then set the Output to New layer and press OK.

3) Similarly cut the sky from the image into a new layer.

Step 5

In this step we are going to create a distant hills beyond the flora covered hills by the river.

1) Import the image of the distant hills on to the working canvas and place the image layer in between the river and sky layer, then position it as shown in the scene.

2) Now create a Curves adjustment layer to the distant hills layer and raise the Red curve slightly as shown.

3) Now by using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer reduce the Saturation level to -61.

Step 6

In this step we are going to place a rock in the scene on which our character will be seated.

1) Import the image of the rock on to the scene and place it at the bottom center of the scene as shown.

2) To blend the shade of the rock with the climate increase the Gamma Correction level of the rock to 0.87 using the Exposure adjustment layer.

Step 7

In this step we will be creating a rough water flow in the river.

1) Import the image of the rough water flow on to the canvas and place it on the left side of the rock as shown. Then by using the eraser tool erase the sharp edges of the image to blend it perfectly with the landscape.

2) As you can observe that the water of the river is in greenish color so create a Curves adjustment layer to the water flow layer and slightly increase the Green curve as shown.

3) Now by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Gamma Correction level to 0.70.

Step 8

Now we’re going to add a building to our scene. Cut out and paste in your building photo like below.

Then use a layer mask to mask off the edge of the building, fading it into your main scene smoothly.

2) Using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer set the Saturation level to -60

3) As you can observe that the water of the river is in greenish color so create a Curves adjustment layer to the water flow layer and slightly increase the Green curve as shown.

4) Now by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Gamma Correction level to 0.70.

Step 9

Create a new layer on the top of the layer palette and create a vignette for the dramatic mood in the scene.

Step 10

In this step we are going to cut the image of the central character from source image using advanced cutting options.

1) Select a mask around the model as shown using the lasso tool or a magic wand tool.

2) Now open the Refine Edge option and set the smooth level to 1, Contrast to 4% and Shift Edge to -3%. Then paint the edges of the model with the refine radius tool to select every fine detail of the model.

- Now set the Output to New layer and press OK to get the fine cut image of the model on to a new layer.

Step 11

In this step we are going to introduce the central character in the scene and blend it with the environment.

1) Import the image of the model on to the working canvas and place it on the rock as shown.

2) Now erase the unwanted rock beneath the model as shown.

3) Using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer set the Saturation level to -47.

4) Now increase the Gamma Correction level to 0.67.

Step 12

Create a new layer over the model and paint dark shadows on the model as shown. (Note: Use of digital pen tablet could give better results in painting shadows.).

Step 13

In this step we are going to paint the hair extension behind the model.

1) Select a hairbrush from the brushes palette and paint the hair extension behind the model as shown using the color #bdbab1.

2) Now by using the color #706d66 paint the shaded hair as shown. Make sure to maintain the hair flow during the brush strokes to make it look natural.

Step 14

In this step we are going to paint the hair flaunting over the neck and flowing towards the front of the model.

1) Select a hairbrush with more hair strands and select the color #c7c1b1 paint the hair as shown on the model in a new layer.

2) Now select a hairbrush with less but thick hairs strands and paint the hair as shown using the same color.

3) Now by using the color #6b645c paint the shaded part of the of hair as shown over the neckline.

Step 15

In this step we are going to paint shadows to the digitally painted hair to make it look natural and believable.

1) Create a new layer over the hair layer and select the mask in shape of the hair by clicking on the hair layer thumbnail by holding Command key (Mac) and Control key on PC. Then paint the shadow over the hair as shown.

2) Now paint the shadow over the hair behind the model as shown.

3) Since the hair is covering the front portion of the model create a new layer under the hair layer and paint the shadow over the model as shown, which is cast by the hair.

Step 16

In this step we are going to create water splash effect around the rock caused by the waves hitting it.

1) Create a new layer under the rock layer and paint the water splash as shown using the white color.

2) Now create another new layer over the rock layer and paint the water splash as shown.

Step 17

In this step we are going to create fog in the scene.

1) Create a new layer under the vignette layer and paint the fog as shown in the image.

2) Now select the eraser tool and choose the same fog brush from the brushes palette and erase the previously painted fog slightly.

3) Now reduce the Opacity of the fog layer to 76%.

4) Create another new layer and paint the fog near the shore as shown on the right side of the image.

Step 18

In this step we are going to add a sparrow in the scene facing the model.

1) Import the image of the sparrow on to the working canvas and place the image as shown in front of the model.

2) Now create a new layer over the sparrow and paint the shadow as shown to blend it with the environment.

Step 19

In this step we will be adding dead branches closer to the scene.

1) Import the image of the dead branches on to the working canvas and place the branches on the left side as shown.

2) Create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the branches and set the Saturation level to -35.

3) Now by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Gamma Correction level to 0.81.

4) Since the branches are imagined to be closer to the scene they must be blurred in order to create the DOF to the scene. Hence with the dead branches layer selected add Gaussian Blur of Radius 5.0px.

Step 20

In this step we will be color correcting the whole scene.

1) Create an Exposure adjustment layer on the top of the layers palette and set the Gamma Correction level to 0.85.

2) Now by using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer set the Brightness level to 8.

3) Using the Curves adjustment layer set the RGB curves as shown to get the following effect.

Step 21

Using the birds brushes paint flocks of birds flying around in the scene as shown.

Step 22

In this step we will be creating rain to add more drama to the scene.

1) Create a new layer on the top of the layers palette and paint the rain using rain brush with white color selected.

2) Now add a Motion Blur with Angle 50 and Distance 1px to the rain layer.

Step 23

In this step we are going to create few water droplets on the screen. Before proceeding with this step merge all the layer of the scene into a single layer.

1) Create a new layer and paint the water drop on the screen as shown on the right side of the scene.

2) Using the Lasso tool cut the scene in the shape of droplet into a new layer.

3) Now merge both water droplet and the cut image of the scene together and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 7.0px to get the desired effect.

4) Similarly create few more droplets as shown.

Congratulations, You’re All Done!

Awesome job making it this far! You should be proud of what you’ve created. Show it off to your friends and colleagues and get some feedback.

You can also comment here with your version, or any questions you had about the techniques used. We love to see what you guys create and we’re always here to give helpful feedback and tips to help you to improve.

Today’s tutorial builds on the darker aspects of the famous Alice in Wonderland franchise. The Mad Hatter was always a pivotal figure, and in this composition he is shown as ultimate key-holder to a bizarre, fantasy world.

Asides from the eerie floating landscape, you’ll be mastering how to create some very cool 3D style lettering. You’ll also learn some great tricks along the way such as how to extract complex images, how to blend your scene effectively, and how to tie everything together using perspective guides.

So if you’re ready, it’s time to take a tumble down the rabbit hole, and take your designs to the next level!

What You’ll Be Creating:

Here’s a look at the outcome you’ll be able to produce by the end of this lesson:

Step 1

In this step we are going to create a landscape using multiple images.

1) Import the image of the dry grass landscape on to the working canvas and place it as shown.

2) Now import another landscape image and place it above the previous landscape and mask the bottom edge of the image using a soft black paintbrush to blend it seamlessly with the first landscape.

3) To make the sky look more dramatic add a grey cloudy sky on the top of the working canvas as shown.

4) Now by using a layer mask erase the bottom end of the image as shown to blend it perfectly with the sky.

5) Create a Curves adjustment layer to the grey sky layer and set the RGB curves as shown.

Step 2

In this step we are going to use the Refine Edges to cut the image of the model along with her props without loosing any details.

1) Select a rough mask around the model and open Refine Edges. Then set the Smooth and Contrast levels to 4, and then increase the Refine Radius Tool size to 88 and gaze around the model to see the magic of the software. Then set the Output to New Layer and hit ok to get the perfectly cut image in a new layer.

2) Now import the image of the model on to the working canvas and place it as shown.

3) Mask the bottom end of the model image in the shape of the dry grass to create an illusion of model standing the grass. Use clipping mask in the erasing process will help you in making work easier if any changes are required in future. To give the illusion of grass blades being in front of the model, use a very thin brush when masking.

4) Create a new layer on the top of the layers palette and paint dark vignette effect along the sides of the scene as shown.

Step 3

Perspective is the key to get a natural depth while placing elements in the scene. In this scene we will need a two point perspective to align our elements in the scene.

- Using the line tool draw the two point perspective lines as shown.

Step 4

In this step we will be adding few mysterious doors floating in the air with a ladder connecting the ground.

1) This is a fantasy scene and hence we want the shape of doors to be uniquely shaped to fit with the theme of the scene. Cut the image of the door from the stock image and then by using the Move Tool (V) select the image and right click on it to select the Warp option. Then transform the shape of the door as shown.

2) Now import the image of the door on to the canvas and place it as shown following the prospective guidelines.

3) Naturally when an object is seen from a distance it tends to loose it contrast in color and blends with the environment, and it tends to merge with environmental color as it goes further. Hence by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Offset value to +0.0288.

4) Now by using the ladder brush paint the ladder to the as shown connecting the ground.

5) Similarly add few more doors to the scene as shown following the perspective guidelines.

Step 5

In this step we are going to create a floating barn in the scene.

1) Cut the image of the barn from the stock image using the Pen Tool (P). Then import it onto the working canvas and place it as shown.

2) Using the Clone Stamp Tool (S) fill and complete the front section of the barn as shown following the perspective lines.

Step 6

In this step we are going to color correct the whole scene using the adjustment layers.

1) Create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer on the top of the layers palette and set the Saturation level to -50.

2) To enhance the shadows in the scene, create an Exposure adjustment layer and set the Gamma Correction level to 0.80.

3) Now create a Curves adjustment layer and set the RGB curves as shown.

4) Now increase the Brightness of the image to 20 by using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer.

Step 7

In this step we will be replacing the snow-covered roof of the barn with a normal roof to match with the environment of the scene.

1) Cut the roof from the stock image and place it on the barn in the scene as shown, then transform it to fit perfectly with the prospective of the barn.

2) Now select the barn layer and erase the excess snow seen above the replaced roof.

3) Similarly replace the other side of the roof as shown.

Step 8

In this step we are going to create the ground base stuck to the base of the barn after the barn’s separation from the ground.

1) Cut the dark volcanic soil from the stock image and place it at the bottom of the barn as shown.

2) Now darken the soil by setting the Gamma Correction level to 0.68.

3) Ripping process is never smooth. Hence we can’t have a perfect border at the bottom. Using a layer mask to erase the bottom of the barn in random to create the wood chipped effect.

Step 9

In this step we are going to advanced cutting technique to cut the dead tree image with every detail.

1) With the dead tree image selected go to Channels palette and select Blue layer. Then go to Image>Calculations and choose Blue in the Channel dropdown lists. This will create a ‘Alpha 1′ layer in the Channels palette.

2) With the Alpha1 layer selected go to Image>Adjustments>Levels and set the levels as shown.

3) Now move to the layers palette and go to Select>Load Selection and select Alpha1 from the Channel dropdown list, this will create a perfect mask around the dead tree.

4) Make sure the dead tree image is selected and delete the BG in the image.

Step 10

In this step we are going to create roots hanging from the base of the barn.

1) Cut a branch in random from the dead tree and place it at the bottom of the barn as shown.

2) Now cut another dead branch and place it beside the previously placed root.

3) Similarly add few more roots hanging from the base of the barn as shown.

Step 11

In this step we are going to create a crater beneath the barn, which is supposed to be formed by the separation of the barn from the ground.

1) Cut the volcanic soil image from the stock image and place it beneath the barn as shown. Then erase the sides of the soil image as shown using the soft eraser tool.

2) Now create a layer-clipping mask to the crater layer and erase the front end of the crater in the form of the dry grass to give it more natural look.

Step 12

In this step we will be creating debris falling from the base of the barn.

1) Create a new layer and draw random shapes using the lasso tool for the debris. The by using the stamp tool select the texture of the volcanic soil and fill the debris with the texture.

2) With the debris layer selected go to Filters>Blur>Motion Blur and set the Angle to -90 and Distance to 14px.

Step 13

In this step we will be creating birds flying around in the scene.

1) Create a new layer placed under the doors folder in layers palette. Then by using the birds’ brush paint the birds above the model as shown.

2) Create an Exposure adjustment layer to the birds layer and set the Offset value to +0.0575.

3) With the birds layer selected add a Gaussian blur of radius 2.6px.

4) Similarly add few more birds flying around in the scene as shown.

Step 14

In this step we are going to add dead branches closer to the scene to create a natural depth to the scene.

1) Import few dead branches from the dead tree image and place them on the working canvas as shown.

2) Now add a Gaussian blur of Radius 9.7px to the branches to create the Depth Of Field to the scene.

Step 15

In this step we are going to create a custom shaped title font.

1) Draw the shape of the title frame as shown in a new layer.

2) Using the Alice in Wonderland font type W and transform it to fit in the frame as shown.

3) Similarly follow the same procedure for every alphabet.

Step 16

In this step we are going to create a 3D effect to the title, using Layer blending options.

1) Select the W layer and open the layer blending options. Then select the Bevel Emboss option and set the Technique to Chisel Hard, Size = 21

2) Now select the Contour option and set the Range to 30%

3) Then select the texture option and select Laid Horizontal texture from pattern. With this step completed we get a perfect 3D font that matches perfectly with our theme.

4) Now copy the Layer Style of the W layer and paste it to the entire title.

And We’re Done!

You can view the final outcome below. I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial and would love to hear your feedback on the techniques and outcome.

Congratulations, You’re All Done!

Awesome job making it this far! You should be proud of what you’ve created. Show it off to your friends and colleagues and get some feedback.

You can also comment here with your version, or any questions you had about the techniques used. We love to see what you guys create and we’re always here to give helpful feedback and tips to help you to improve.

That’s the whole beauty of design isn’t it? The ability to adapt our style of design based on the creative brief, the context or the client.

Today we’re going to create a seriously creepy human puppet hybrid using a regular portrait photo of a beautiful model. This is a tutorial packed full of useful techniques, and it’s also an outcome that you could recreate with your own portraits and really scare your friends (creepy profile picture anyone?).

You’ll master a range of techniques including:

• Digital Painting.
• Retro color correction.
• Creating a living puppet.
• Working with adjustment layer’s, combined vector masks and color correction.
• Using Filters to create a dramatic, well focused scene.

What You’ll Be Creating:

Here’s a look at the outcome you’ll be able to produce by the end of this lesson:

Ready to begin? Great, let’s get started!

Step 1

Create a new canvas in Photoshop and import the image of the BG texture on to it.

Step 2

In this step we are going to create a huge crack on the wall using .gimp image.

1) Using the GIMP software convert the .gimp file into .png. Then import it on to the canvas and place it in the middle of the scene.

2) Now set the Blending Mode of the crack layer to multiply, to blend it perfectly with the BG to get the natural crack effect.

Step 3

In this step we are going to manipulate the model’s body into a puppet body.

1) Cut the image of the model from its BG into a new layer using the Pen Tool (P).

2) Using the Mask Tool (M) cut the lower part of the body into a new layer and erase that particular area in the original. We won’t need it further.

3) Now move the lower body layer upwards as shown.

Step 4

In this step we are going to blend the puppet body to the scene and add few improvements to the puppet.

1) Import the image of the puppet on to the canvas and place it in the center as shown.

2) Now cut the elbow and wrist joints of both hands of the puppet as shown by using the Pen Tool (P).

3) Create a new shadow layer under the puppet layer and fill in the selection with black color in the shape of the puppet. Then move the layer
slightly towards the right of the scene as shown.

4) Now add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 12.7px to the shadow layer.

5) With the soft round brush selected paint the soft shadow under the puppet as shown.

6) Now create a new layer above the puppet layer and paint the shadow on the puppet as shown.

Step 5

In this step we are going to color correct the puppet to blend with the scene seamlessly.

1) Group all the puppet layers into a single folder. Then create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the folder and check the colorize option. Then set the Hue level to 194 and Saturation level to 11.

2) Again create another Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the puppet folder and reduce the Saturation level to -38.

3) To enhance the dark shadows on the puppet create an Exposure adjustment layer and set the Offset value to -0.0023 and Gamma Correction to 0.81.

Step 6

In this step we are going to add some gothic makeup and paint a facial scar on the model’s face.

1) Create a new layer over the puppet folder and paint the lips black, also slightly enhance the dark shadow of the cheek bone as shown.

2) Now paint the shape of the facial scar as shown in a new layer.

3) By using the color #eeeae9 paint a thin line over the edge of the scar as shown. This gives a natural and 3D depth to the scar.

Step 7

Create a new layer on the top of layers pallet and create a black bokeh on the corners of the scene as shown.

Step 8

In this step we are going to add dead branches at the bottom and make them look like they are from the puppet’s body.

1) Create a new layer under the puppet folder and paint random shaped dead branches as shown using black color.

2) Now import image of dead branches and place them over the previously painted branches as shown.

Step 9

In this step we are going to a skeleton structure of the elbow and wrist joints using dead branches. This is a very crucial step because the shape of the branches represents the positioning of the hand.

1) Import a dead branch image from the dead branch image2 and place it as shown on the right hand elbow section as shown. Make sure the branch is slightly bent, while selecting the dead branch from the dead tree.

2) Now import another branch image and place it as shown. This represents the elbow shape.

3) To make the structure more firm and strong add another branch from elbow joint as shown.

4) Add another dead branch to the arm as shown to structure look strong.

5) Similarly add few dead branches to the wrist joint as shown. While selecting branches for the wrist joint make sure the branches are tender or thin.

Step 10

In this step we are going to create the elbow joint of the left hand.

1) Import the image of a dead branch which is bent by 40° angle and place it on the left elbow joint as shown.

2) Add few more dead branches as shown to make the structure look rigid and strong.

3) Now add a couple of thin branches to left wrist joint as shown.

Step 11

In this step we are going to create a 3D depth to the pieces of the arm.

1) Create a new layer and paint a rough sketch of the arm shapes as shown.

2) Using the pen tool select a mask in the shape of the previously drawn shape and fill in the selection with the color #c0bfba. (Place this layer above the puppet folder.)

3) Now by using the color #eae9e4 draw thin silver lining at the intersection of the previously created shape and the arm. This detail is barely visible but every small detail adds a great value to the output.

4) Now paint the shadow as shown using the color #81817f.

5) Similarly paint the 3D shapes as shown at the joints.

6) Now select the shape of the dead branches of the left wrist and select the left wrist 3D shape. Then erase it half the way on the 3D shape as shown. To make the branches look like they embedded into the wrist.

7) Similarly follow the same procedure on the other 3D shapes.

Now group all the 3D shapes into a single folder and create an Exposure adjustment layer. Then set the Offset value to -0.0991 and gamma Correction to 0.61.

Step 12

In this step we are going to add hooks on the hands of the puppet.

1) Import the image of the hook onto the canvas and place it on the right hand as shown. Then cut the bottom end of the hook in the shape of the thumb muscle, to make it look like it is hinged in the middle of the palm.

2) Similarly place another hook on the left hand as shown.

3) Create a new shadow layer under the second hook and paint the dark shadow as shown.

4) Now group all the hook layers into a single folder and create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer. Then check the colorize option and set the Hue level to 196 and Saturation level to 12.

Step 13

In this step we are going to add chains hinged to the hooks. These chains represent the string by which a puppet is usually played.

1) Import the image of the chain from the stock photo and place it on the right hand as shown.

2) Similarly place another chain on the left hand as shown.

Step 14

In this step we are going to perform a slight face lift on the puppet.

1) Create a new layer over the puppet and paint white on the face as shown and set the Opacity of the layer to 64%.

2) Now set the Blending mode of the layer to Overlay.

Step 15

In this step we are going to place a metal shield behind the puppet’s head.

1) Import the image of the metal shield on to the canvas and place it behind the puppet as shown.

2) Now create a new layer under the shield layer and fill it with black color in shape of the shield. Then move it slightly towards the right as shown.

3) Now add a Gaussian Blur of radius 7.4px to the shadow layer.

4) Create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the shield and set the Saturation level to -58.

5) Again create another Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the shield layer and check the Colorize option and set the Hue level to 183 and Saturation level to 15.

6) Now by using the Curves adjustment layer set the RGB curves as shown.

7) Create a new layer above the shield layer and paint a very thin shadow on the right as shown.

Step 16

In this step we are going to place a carved design in the background wall.

1) Import the image of the carved design on to the working canvas and place it on the left side top corner as shown.

2) Create a Curves adjustment layer to the carved design and set the RGB curves as shown.

3) Now by using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer with the colorize option checked set the Hue level to 183 and Saturation level to 10.

Step 17

In this step we are going to add a carved pillar in the BG.

1) Import the image of the carved pillar on to the working canvas and place it on the right side of the scene as shown.

2) Now create a dark shadow layer under the pillar layer, then move it slightly downwards and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 6.8px.

3) Now create a new layer above the pillar layer and paint dark shadow on it as shown.

4) Create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the pillar and check the colorize option. Then set the Hue level to 190 and Saturation level to 11.

5) To enhance the dark shadows on the pillar, create an Exposure adjustment layer and set the gamma correction level to 0.72. Now select the layer mask of the adjustment layer and by using the soft brush with black color selected paint the area where the color correction is not required.

6) Now create a Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer and set the Brightness to -9. Then follow the previous step to paint the area where color correction is not required.

Step 18

In this step we are going to create a heart shape in the scene.

1) Create a new layer and select a mask in the shape of a heart and fill in the selection with red color.

2) Now create a shadow layer under the heart layer and move it downwards as show, then add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 26.1px.

Step 19

In this step we are going to create a frame around the heart.

1) Import the image of the heart frame on to the working canvas and place it on the heart as shown.

2) Now import another metal design from a frame stock image and place it on the top of the heart as shown.

3) Now add a ruby and a round pendant designs on the heart as shown.

4) Now add shadows to the designs placed on the heart as shown.

5) Create an Exposure adjustment layer to the pendant design in the center and set the Exposure level to +2.48 and Gamma Correction to 0.81.

Step 20

In this step we will be creating a spire like design at the bottom end of the heart facing downwards.

1) Import the image of the design on to the working canvas and place it at the bottom end of the heart as shown.

2) Now cut the top portion of the design and extend it upwards as shown.

3) Merge all the spire design layers and de-saturate them by -86 using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer.

4) Now create a Curves adjustment layer and bring down the Red curve as shown.

5) Create a new layer over the design layer and paint dark shadow as shown from right.

6) Since this is a glowing heart we need to add some light glow on the design. Hence paint yellow color on the spire design and set the blending mode of the layer to Soft Light and reduce the Opacity to 55%.

Step 21

In this step we are going to add light glow effect to the heart.

1) Place a lens flare at the center of the pendant design and set its blending mode to Screen.

2) Similarly place another lens flare inside the heart frame and cut it in the shape of the heart to get the following effect.

3) Now create a new layer over the frame layer and paint light glow overlapping within the edges of the frame design as shown.

4) By using the color #f9cd34 paint the light glow around the heart as shown.

5) Now set the blending mode of the light glow layer to Pin Light.

6) Import another lens flare layer over the light glow layer and set its blending mode to Screen.

Step 22

In this step we are going to add few dead branches around the scene and work on Depth Of Field (DOF) to create a natural depth to the scene.

1) Import the image of the dead branches on to the working canvas and place it in the right side bottom corner as shown.

2) Then add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 19.0px to the dead branches. This gives the depth of distance between the branches and the puppet.

3) Similarly add few more branches around the scene as shown.

Step 23

In this step we are going to work on color correction and focus effect, which drives complete attention towards the main character.

1) Merge all the layers and name the image as Surreal Puppet. Then duplicate the image and add Radial Blur (Filter>Blur>Radial Blur) of Amount 13. Then set the Blur Method to Zoom and Quality to Best.

2) Now erase the center area of the blurred image to reveal the main image below. Now when you look at the image constantly for some time you feel like you are being dragged into the image.

3) Now create a Curves adjustment layer on the top of layers pallet and set the RGB curves as shown.

Congratulations, You’re All Done!

Awesome job making it this far! You should be proud of what you’ve created. Show it off to your friends and colleagues and get some feedback.

You can also comment here with your version, or any questions you had about the techniques used. We love to see what you guys create and we’re always here to give helpful feedback and tips to help you to improve.

Matte painting is a great skill for any creative to have. It’s a really effective way to learn skills like photo manipulation and blending, all whilst honing your ‘realism’ skills.

Generally at PSDFAN we love creating big fantasy inspired outcomes that look awesome, but aren’t all that realistic.

However, sometimes it’s good to get our feet firmly back on the ground and focus on the subtle art of digital realism. This involves stuff like light sources, perspective and color matching. This kind of design doesn’t have to be boring though! In fact, it can be a lot of fun being able to create entirely new scenes and landscape. You can really kick your creative imagination into gear and think outside the box. Get creative – do you want to transform a farmyard landscape into a sprawling futuristic city. Within reason, you can truly creative anything you desire.

What You’ll Be Creating:

In today’s lesson you’ll be creating this scenic, cinematic looking landscape, by combining a lot of different source files. The end result will be pretty believable, but in true PSDFAN form we’ll also be throwing some futuristic floating machines into the mix . Hey, with the power of Photoshop at our fingers why not?

Here’s a look at the outcome you’ll be able to produce by the end of this lesson:

Here’s a look at the images we’ll be combining to create our masterpiece.

Ready to begin? Great, let’s get started!

Step 1

Create a new canvas in Photoshop and draw a rough sketch of the city skyline concept.

Step 2

Import the image of the base image of the city skyline on to the canvas. Make sure to cut the sky from the image before importing it on to the working canvas.

Step 3

In this step we are going to create sky in the scene.

1) Import the image of the sky on to the working canvas and place the layer under the city layer.

2) Now select the Stamp Tool (S) and set the ‘Clone Sample Mode’ to current and below. Then create a new layer above the sky layer and paint out the gaps in the sky as shown.

3) Create a new layer under the sky layer and paint the color #8edafa.

4) Now duplicate the sky layer and place it as shown on the top of the scene.

Step 4

In this step we are going to create few distant hills in the scene.

1) Import the image of a hill on to the working canvas and place it on the right side of the scene as shown and place the layer under the city layer.

2) Similarly place another hill image on the left side of the scene.

3) Now import the image of snow covered mountains and place them behind the second hill image as shown.

4) Create a new layer above the city layer and paint the fog covering the hills as shown with the color #8edafa with Brush Pressure set to 19%.

Step 5

In this step we are going to create a castle on the top of the hill.

1) Import the image of the hill top castle on to the canvas and flip it horizontally to match with the lighting of the scene. Then place it on the top of the right hill. Make sure the castle layer is placed under the previously created fog layer.

2) By using the Curves adjustment layer slightly increase the level of Blue curve as shown.

3) Now by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Offset value to +0.0174 and Gamma Correction to 1.75.

Step 6

In this step we are going to create a castle bridge.

1) Cut the arches from the castle image into a new layer as shown.

2) Now duplicate the arch layer and move it adjacent to the primary arch layer as shown.

3) Cut the base of the arch layer into a new layer and erase them on the main layer. Now Cut the portion of the pillars on to a new layer and move them downwards, then place the previously cut base image to the bottom of the extended pillars as shown.

Step 7

In this step we are going to make the bridge look extending from the hill top castle.

1) Place the previously created bridge beside the hill top castle as shown in the scene.

2) Follow step 6 to extend the pillars of the bridge.

3) Now create a new layer above the bridge layer and paint the fog similarly like we painted on over the hills.

4) Now merge all the bridge layers and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 0.3px to blend the bridge with the DOF of the scene.

Step 8

In this step we are going to create a tower on the other end of the bridge.

1) Cut the image of the tower from the Parliament image and place it on the other end of the bridge as shown.

2) Create a Curves adjustment layer to the Tower layer and set the RGB curves as shown.

3) Now paint the fog over the tower in a new layer to blend with the other elements.

Step 9

In this step we are going to color correct the bridge and the tower together.

1) Group all the Bridge and the Tower layers into a single folder. Then create a Curves adjustment layer and set the RGB curves as shown.

2) Now create Exposure adjustment layer to the folder and set the Offset value to +0.0217 and Gamma Correction to 1.35.

Step 10

In this step we are going to draw the floating laser machines to match with the perspective of the scene we are creating.

1) Draw Two Point Perspective lines as shown and draw the floating machine using the lines as shown.

2) Now create a new layer and paint White on the front side of the machine as shown since it gets direct sunlight.

3) Now paint cool gray color on the side of the machine as it get partial light.

4) Now paint the color #afb0b2 for the inner structure of the machine.

5) For the base of the machine paint the color #585657.

6) Now type in the number 05 on the machine, to indicate that every machine is numbered as per the order and maintenance.

7) It’s a massive machine located by a long distance hence paint the color #bce6f4 over the machine.

8 ) Now merge all the machine layers and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 0.3px.

Step 11

In this step we are going to create a couple more floating machines in the scene.

1) Duplicate the machine image and resize as shown and add a Gaussian blur of Radius 0.7px.

2) To make it look distant paint the color #bce6f4 on the second machine.

3) Similarly create another machine farther in the scene as shown.

Step 12

In this step we going to add the laser and the lens flare effect on the machines.

1) Place the image lens flare image on the bottom of the first machine and set the Blending mode of the layer to Screen.

2) Similarly add another brighter lens flare over the previous lens flare.

3) Now import another lens flare on to the scene and place it vertically downwards as shown, which depicts the laser emitting from the machine.

4) Duplicate the previously created laser layer to make it look brighter.

5) Similarly add the laser and lens flares to the other machines as shown.

Step 13

In this step we will be creating a parliament house dome in the middle of the city.

1) Cut the image of the dome into a new layer using the Pen Tool (P).

2) Now import the dome on to the working canvas and place it in the middle of the city as shown.

3) Using the Lasso Tool (L) cut the dome to make the building in front of it visible. This can also add a depth to the structure rather than like a cut image in the scene.

Step 14

In this step we are going to color correct the dome to blend with the scene.

1) Create an Exposure adjustment layer to the dome layer and set the Gamma Correction level to 1.47.

2) Now by using the Curves adjustment layer set the RGB curves as shown.

3) Now increase the brightness of the dome by 8 using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer.

4) Create a new layer over the dome layer and paint the light shade on the right side of the dome as shown. Then set the Blending mode of the layer to overlay.

5) Now create another curves layer and set the curves as shown to blend the dome perfectly with the scene.

Step 15

In this step we are going to create few towers in the scene.

1) Cut the small tower structure from the parliament image into a new layer.

2) Now place the tower image adjacent to the parliament dome as shown.

3) Now by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Offset value to +0.0087 and Gamma Correction to 1.39.

4) Similarly create another tower on the left side of the dome.

Step 16

In this step we are going to create a tower closer to the scene and another tall tower in the scene.

1) Import the previously used tower image and place it on the extreme right of the scene.

2) Since the tower image looks a bit sharp compared to the building around it, we need to add a Gaussian blur of Radius 0.4px to blend it perfectly.

3) Now create a new layer above the tower layer and paint the sunlight using white color.

4) Similarly create another tower in the middle of the city using the tower image used in the step 8.

Step 17

Create a new layer on the top of layers palette and paint the birds flying around in the scene and also around the dome and towers.

Step 18

In this step we are going to create a balcony using multiple images.

1) Import the first image of the balcony on to the canvas and place it on the left side of the scene as shown.

2) Now import another image of the balcony and place it as shown to extend the wall.

3) Duplicate the wall layer and slightly increase the size of it and complete the balcony wall.

4) As we can see that there is an unusual cut at the intersection to the image 1 and 2 of the balcony. Hence, by using the Stamp Tool (S) cover the error.

Step 19

In this step we are going to create branches of a tree with dense leaves covering the upper portion of the scene.

1) Import the image of the tree branches on to the canvas and place it on the upper side of the scene as shown.

2) But here the branches on the right side are covering most part of the scene, hence cut the right portion of the branches into a new layer.

3) Now move the right portion of the branches slightly upwards as shown.

4) Now add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 1.1px to the branches. Then by using a soft brush with black color paint at the tip area of the branches in the Smart layer, because we don’t want the tip area to be blurred.

Step 20

In this step we are going to color correct the entire scene together.

1) Create a Curves adjustment layer on top of the layers palette and set the RGB curves as shown.

2) Now by using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Gamma Correction level to 0.85.

Congratulations, You’re All Done!

Awesome job making it this far! You should be proud of what you’ve created. Show it off to your friends and colleagues and get some feedback.

You can also comment here with your version, or any questions you had about the techniques used. We love to see what you guys create and we’re always here to give helpful feedback and tips to help you to improve.

Do you struggle with blending your images properly?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

So many Photoshop designs are poorly blended, and the end result is often a very unrealistic scene.

You should always spend a good amount of time blending your images perfectly, particularly when working with photo manipulation works.

Today you’ll learn how to blend a large number of different photographic elements into a single cohesive scene. You’ll learn how to pay attention to light and shadow, and how to manipulate color and shade in a non-destructive way.

To make things extra challenging, we’re going to be converting a daytime scene to a nighttime scene!

This is going to be fun, let’s dive right in.

What You’ll Be Creating:

As always, this is the final image that we’ll be creating:

Step 1

In this step we will start with the main character of the scene.

1) Cut the image of the princess from its original image using the Lasso Tool (L) and place it on the working canvas as shown.

2) Now create a new layer over the model layer. Then select Spot Healing Tool (J) and set the options to Content Aware and Sample All Layers. Now remove all the spots and imperfections on the face. This might take some time, but the more you spend the better result you get.

3) De-Saturate the image by -46 using the Hue-Saturation Adjustment layer.

4) Now create an Exposure Adjustment layer and set the Exposure level to +0.57 and Gamma Correction to 0.75.

Step 2

In this step we are going to work on the make-up, to make the princess look prettier. (Use of Digital Pen Tablet is highly recommended.)

1) Create a new layer and set the Blending mode of the layer to Overlay. The paint the cheeks and lips pink as shown.

2) Now select Black color and paint dark circles around the eyes as shown to give the princess a slight gothic look.

3) Now de-select the Pen-Pressure option (If using a Pen Tablet.), and then paint dark black eye liner around the eyes as shown.

Step 3

In this step we are going to create the Balcony behind the princess.

1) Import the image of the balcony on to the working canvas and place it behind the princess as shown.

That’s the end of the preview!

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Have you ever wanted to learn how to digitally paint?

I don’t blame you, it’s an awesome skill to have!

Digital painting can really let you show off your artistic side, and by being digital and therefore non-destructive can be a very forgiving progress when done right.

Whilst a lot of the techniques you’ll need are similar to traditional drawing, the workflow can be quite different.

In this tutorial we are going to digitally paint a photo-realistic portrait of a model in photoshop. This tutorial explains the simple steps behind creating a complex digital art work.

Tutorial Requirements:

1. Wacom Bamboo or Intuos.

2. Basic knowledge in Photoshop.

3. Proficiency in Traditional drawing and painting skills.

Final Outcome:

As always, this is the final image that we’ll be creating:

Step 1

Open a new canvas in Photoshop and fill the canvas with colors #dedcdd and #4e4c4d gradient.

Step 2

Before going further with the tut go to Window>Arrange>2-Up Vertical. Now you can have the reference image and workspace side by side, so that it would be easy to review your progress with the reference image.

- Create a new layer and draw a rough outline sketch of the model as shown.

Step 3

In this step we will be painting rough structure of the model, which will be the base of whole process.

1) Using the color #b7b7b7 paint the skin area of the model as shown.

2) Now by using the Black color paint the hair of the model.

Step 4

Create a new layer under the base color layers and paint dark shades behind the shoulders as shown.

Step 5

Now paint the eyes and lips of the model as shown in different layers. Just remember, this is the initial concept stage so you can keep the shapes rough because we will work on every part in detail later.

Step 6

In this step we are going to work on the details of the hair.

1) Select a hair brush and paint the dark black hair over the previously painted hair shape. Make sure the sharp edges of the hair shape are not visible.

2) Now by using the same hair brush paint the shade part of the hair with white color as seen in the reference image.

3) Paint the details of the hair roots and scalp on the head as shown.

Step 7

Create a new layer above the skin tone layer and paint the light shade on the body of the model as shown using the color #dbdbdb.

Step 8

In this step we are going to paint the nose. Nose is one of the vital parts of the face, which could define the whole beauty of the image, so we need to concentrate and take time in painting it.

1) Using the soft round brush paint the nose as shown with the colors Black and #dbdbdb. This is where your traditional drawing and painting skills are put into serious action. People proficient with pencil shading could find this easy.

- Use of Wacom Bamboo is required to get this right. Wacom Intuos5 is recommended as it has 2048 pressure levels, which could help you get much better result.

2) Now paint a thin shadow on the left side of the nose as shown.

3) Using the Soft Round Brush paint dark shadow under the nose as shown in the reference image.

Step 9

Now paint the shade of the upper lip fold as shown. Every small facial detail is vital while trying for photo-realism.

Step 10

In this step we are going to paint the shadow under the lower lip.

1) Using the Soft Round Brush paint the shadow under the lower lip as shown.

2) Now darken the lower lip shadow to define the shape of the chin bone.

3) In a new layer paint the light shades as shown and reduce the Opacity of it’s layer to 41%.

Step 11

In this step we will be working on painting the eyebrows.

1) Create a new layer and paint the basic shape of the eyebrows as shown. Make sure the shape of the eyebrows is accurate with the reference image.

2) Now darken the eye brows using the Black color with Soft Round Brush in a new layer.

3) Now duplicate the previously created dark eyebrow layer and go to Filters> Blur>Gaussian Blur and set the Radius to 2.9px.

4) Group all the eyebrow layers into a single folder and create an Exposure adjustment layer to it and set the Exposure level to -7.82 and Gamma Correction to 0.23.

Step 12

In this step we will be concentrating on refining the facial details.

1) By using the Soft Round Brush paint the shadow of the eyelids and the nose bone as shown.

2) Now darken the previously painted shadows to make them more visible and match the reference image.

Step 13

In this step we are going to paint the cheeks shadow to define the cheeks shape.

1) Create a new layer and paint the cheeks shadow as seen in the reference image. This shade is very crucial as this defines the shape of the whole look of the face.

2) Now create a new layer and paint darker shade on the cheeks as shown.

Step 14

In this step we are going to define the body shapes by painting the shadows on.

1) Create a new layer and paint the body shadow as shown. Be very careful while defining the shoulder, chest and neck bone shapes.

2) Now darken the body shadows in a new layer as shown.

Step 15

In this step we are going to work on detailing the armpits.

1) Using the Soft Round Brush darken the armpits as shown.

2) Now by using the same brush paint the dark curved shadow as shown to depict the shoulder joint.

Step 16

In this step we are going to work on the Neck.

1) Create a new layer and paint dark shadow on the sides of the neck as shown.

2) Now paint the shape of the throat in the center on the neck as shown.

Step 17

In this step we are going to work on detailing the body and neck.

1) Using the Soft Round brush enhance the shadows and light shades near shoulder bones, neck and chest.

2) Now duplicate the previously created shadow-enhancing layer to make the shadows look a bit darker.

3) Create a new layer and paint dark shadow on the sides of the neck as shown to make it look darker.

Step 18

Create a new layer and paint the dark shadow under the chin as shown. This defines the accurate shape of the chin.

Step 19

Now paint the hair shadow on the left side of the face as shown. This is one of the small details that add great value to the portrait.

Step 20

Select the eye layers and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 2.4px, to make the eyes shape blend with the portrait rather than leaving it to look distinct with sharp edges.

Step 21

In this step we will be painting the details around the eyes.

1) Using the Soft Round brush paint the wrinkle under the eye as shown.

2) Now enhance the shadow over the left eyelid and eyebrow as shown.

3) Similarly paint the dark wrinkle under the right eye and enhance the shadows over the eyelid.

Step 22

In this step we are going to paint the eyeballs and eyelashes with every minor details involved.

1) Using the Hair brush paint the eyelashes as shown over the eyes, then by using the Soft Round Brush paint the eyeballs as it is in the reference image.

2) Now create a new layer under the previously created eyeballs layer and paint a slight gray color on the right eye as shown.

3) Merge all the eyelids and eyeball layers into a single layer and add a Gaussian Blur of Radius 1.0px.

Step 23

Select the Skin Texture Brush and paint the skin texture all over the body as shown to make the skin look natural rather than leaving it smooth.

Step 24

In this step we are going to work on the details of the lips.

1) Using the Soft round brush make the lips look darker with black color.

2) Paint the lip-gloss on the upper lip as seen in the reference image.

3) Now paint a thicker dark shade in-between the lips as shown.

4) Now create a new layer under the lip-gloss layer and paint the lips texture using the lips brush.

5) Similarly paint the lip texture on the upper lip as shown to make the lips look natural.

And We’re Done!

You can view the final outcome below. I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial and would love to hear your feedback on the techniques and outcome.

In today’s Photoshop design lesson you’ll be learning how to create an action packed movie poster design.

This is a great way to take your Photoshop skills and apply them to a real, actionable project spec that you can then transfer to your client projects.

This lesson will teach you a variety of actionable techniques such as:

• Using advanced lighting techniques to create a dramatic scene.
• Creating 3D text and effects in PS CS6 using just Blending Modes and layer properties.
• Working with lighting and shading.
• Creating a war scene through multiple image blending
• Cinematic style color correction.
• and many more interesting techniques to make your design work easier and more fun!

Creating a Movie Poster

As always, this is the final image that we’ll be creating:

Step 1

In this step we are going to arrange the soldiers in order.

1) Create a new canvas in Photoshop with the dimensions Width=3000px and Height=4147px. Then import the image of the Soldier on to the canvas and it in the center as shown.

2) Now import two more soldiers on to the canvas and place them as shown, illustrating as if they got each other’s back.

Step 2

In this step we are going to create the Buildings BG.

1) Erase the sky in the Buildings image using Magic Wand Tool (W) and import the buildings on to the canvas and place them in the background.

2) Create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the buildings layer and set the Saturation level to -59.

3) Now create an Exposure adjustment layer to the buildings layer and set the Exposure level to -0.46 and Gamma Correction to -0.50.

4) Create a new layer above the buildings layer and paint the shadows as shown using the Soft Round Brush (B).

Step 3

In this step we will be creating the night sky in the scene.

1) Import the image of the sky on to the working canvas and place it behind the buildings layer.

2) Now de-saturate the sky layer to -62 using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer.

3) Using the Exposure adjustment layer increase the Offset value to -0.0174 to enhance the dark values of the sky image.

4) Now create a Curves adjustment layer to the sky layer and set the RGB curves as shown.

Step 4

In this step we are going to create fire sparks flying around in the scene.

1) Create a new layer under the soldier’s layer and paint the sparks as shown using the fire sparks brush using the color #f7c30f.

2) With the sparks layer selected go to Filters>Blur>Motion Blur and set the Angle to 14 and Distance=23px. This creates a natural depth to the sparks.

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In this tutorial we are going to create a sacred resting place of an ancient mask, where light is focused from above the mask.

With this tutorial we are going to cover topics like.

- Texture and surface manipulation in Photoshop.
- Blending multiple images correctly and non-destructively
- Creating natural depth with custom shadows.
- Creating artificial Depth Of Field (DOF).
- Dramatic Color Correction using adjustment layers.

Final Outcome:

As always, this is the final image that we’ll be creating:

Step 1

Create a new canvas in Photoshop with dimensions Width=2560 and Height=1440. Then import the image of concrete texture on to the working area.

Step 2

In this step we are going to create a rock table in the scene.

1) Import the image of the rock table and place it in the scene as shown.

2) Create a new layer and paint the black bokeh along the sides of the scene as shown.

3) Now create a new layer and paint the dark shadows around the stone table as shown.

4) Create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer to the stone table and set the Saturation level to -48.

5) Then by using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer set the brightness of the stone table to -40.

6) Pop up the dark shadows of the stone table by increasing the Gamma Correction Level to 0.75 using the Exposure adjustment layer.

Step 3

In this step we are going to work on adding few more textured details to the background.

1) Import the image of rock texture on to the canvas and erase the texture as shown using the Eraser Tool (E) leaving the details on the top of the scene.

2) By using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer reduce the Saturation level of the rock texture to -40.

Step 4

In this step we are going to place the mask in the scene and blend it with the lighting of the scene.

1) Import the image of the mask and place it on the rock table as shown.

2) Using the soft round brush paint the dark shadows on the mask as shown.

3) Create an Exposure adjustment layer to the mask and set the Gamma Correction level to 0.75.

4) Now reduce the Brightness of the mask to -13 using the Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer.

Step 5

In this step we are going to place the Mayan’s Calendar behind the mask.

1) Import the image of the Mayan’s Calendar on to the canvas, and place it behind the mask as shown.

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In this tutorial we will be creating an early 19th century scholar’s study room. This tutorial covers topics like:

• Creating a custom table.
• Texture application
• Shadows and Lighting
• Advanced image cutting and extraction techniques.
• Effective use of Blending modes.
• Vital use of textures and detailing

Scholar’s Study Room

As always, this is the final image that we’ll be creating:

Step 1

In this step we are going to setup the wall for the scene.

1) Create a new canvas in Photoshop with the dimensions Width=2560px and Height=1440px. Then import the image of the concrete wall texture and place it in the scene.

2) Now create a new layer above the texture layer and paint black bokeh borders as shown.

Step 2

In this step we are going to add the main character to the scene.

1) Import the image of the model on to the working canvas and place it on the right side of the scene as shown.

2) Using the Hue/Saturation adjustment layer set the Saturation level of the scholar to -44.

3) To enhance the shadows on the model create an Exposure adjustment layer and set the Gamma Correction to 0.80.

Step 3

In this step we are going to create the study table from scratch.

1) Cut the side design of the table and import it on to the canvas, then place it as shown behind the scholar.

2) Now duplicate the layer and extend the size of the table.

3) Import the image of the table’s leg from the previously used stock image and place it as shown.

4) Duplicate the leg layer and resize it, then move it towards right as shown to make it look like the rear table leg.

5) Now create a new layer and paint the table top as shown to get a proper perspective of the table.

6) Create a new layer under the table layer and paint the dark shadow as shown.

7) Extend the vertical size of the rear table leg using the Pen Tool (P).

8 ) Group all the table layers in one folder, then create a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer and set the Saturation level to -60.

9) Using the Exposure adjustment layer set the Gamma Correction level to 0.62 to enhance the shadows of the table.

Step 4

In this step we are going to add wood texture on the table top.

1) Import the image of the wood texture and transform it to fit the perspective of the table top using the Move Tool (V).

2) Reduce the Brightness of the wood texture to -37 using Brightness/Contrast adjustment layer.

3) Using Hue/Saturation adjustment layer de-saturate the texture to -44.

4) Now increase the Gamma Correction level to 0.76 using Exposure adjustment layer.

5) Create a new layer above the table layer and paint dark shadow on the right side of the table as shown.

Step 5

In this step we are going to create a window to the study room we are creating.

1) Cut the image of the window using the Mask Tool (M) and then select the Blue layer from the Channels Pallet. Then go to Image>Calculations and select Blue in the Channel drop down list.

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