On occasion I envision a photo that I’d like to create, but am unable to do so because of time of day, ambient lighting, or weather conditions. For example, I shot the 1st photo in early November about mid-day while on a photo walk with a family member. After basic editing in Adobe Camera Raw and Photoshop I was happy with the results, but wanted a photo with a more dramatic look.
With additional Photoshop editing (2nd photo) I was able to increase the drama. I added a new layer to replace the sky with a sunset – taking care to make sure that the light was coming from the same direction as the original in order to maintain a realistic look. I then copied that layer and flipped the copied layer vertically to create a mirror image of the sky into the water in the foreground – again to create a realistic reflection. To complete the process I used the gradient tool to blend the reflection with the rest of the photo; finally, I reduced the opacity of the blend to taste.
It was reassuring to learn that each version of the photo has received ViewBug peer awards. Photography is an art form, and it’s to be expected that an artist’s work may be appreciated by some and not by others. But manipulating the photo canvas is so much easier in this digital age than it was back in the day of the darkroom. I urge others with a creative urge to experiment with creating photo composites.
Capture the Memories Found in Travel and Life
Email: d300dave@gmail.com
