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Using Clipping Masks and Drop Shadow to create surreal images

Nov 14, 2014 by Roderique Arisiaman 3 Comments

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image showing the power of clipping masks

On my last post I talked about my backup workflow, but I am probably more known for my editing style. So this time I decided to break down a photo. A question I get asked a lot when I showing my portfolio is how I make images like the one above (This one is featuring the wonderful Renee Robyn, click here for a bigger version). With all the organic shapes and details in there, it seems like a non trivial edit. With this tutorial I’m going to show the basics of the effect, which should give you an insight into the creation of such images.

The process itself is fairly simple, the impact comes when you put in the hard hours to produce the image. It’s basically a repetition of the same steps. But if you put in the time and attention, the work will pay off.

The “secret” is using the Clipping Mask effect in Photoshop. Clipping masks is where two layers form a relation to each other. The bottom layer defines the shape and the top layer holds the color information.

indicates a clipping mask

Next to that you’ll use the drop shadow effect to give the impression of depth and form

The Drop Shadow Effects

Enjoy the video and hop I can inspire you!

The first part of the tutorial is step by step walkthrough on the technique. Then the second step is a high-speed capture on creating the lead image with Renee Robyn.

http://youtu.be/ReD4etu8DJA

FIND THIS INTERESTING? SHARE IT WITH YOUR FRIENDS!

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Related posts:

How to use an old photography technique to create surreal digital images An easy way to create luminosity masks for perfect landscape selections How to use channels to create masks in Photoshop – a comprehensive tutorial Infinite Tools new Infinite Luma panel lets you create luminosity masks the easy way

Filed Under: Tutorials Tagged With: Clipping Mask, Photoshop, Renee Robyn

Roderique Arisiaman: from diyphotography.net

About Roderique Arisiaman

Roderique "Dracorubio" Arisiaman is a professional photographer, photoshop wizard, and artist, using photography as his canvas to create beyond reality imagery and stories.

you can follow Dracorubio on his site, facebook and G+ account.

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