Collage/Intro to Photoshop

Collage Project

Your finished image will be considered computer art not photography. You need to use your own photos for half the final look and if you alter it to look realistic it might fit in the realm of commercial photography but for the most part, we are taking photos and branching into what is considered computer art. You need to learn where that definition changes to computer art and to create something that is past photography.

Start with File/New from the menu and make the image 8 by 10 or 10 by 8 at 150 dpi. Add your images to this not from a photo. You will find images from the internet might be very small.

Make sure you use at least 3 layers that have filters, 2 layers with gradients, 10 or more layers with layer effects. At least one needs to be a layer of your slow shutter with layer effects applied. A minimum of 10 layers but most will find 15 or so work best.

DO NOT stretch images! Used constrained proportions for transformation

Both of these (there will be two listed below) need to be saved in a folder called "Photoshop" on dropbox.

Beginning Photoshop Keyboard Shortcuts here.

photoshopshortcuts.jpg

1/1

Collage Practice

This will be done in class with guided instruction learning layers, layer effects and filters.

Independent Collage

As you start to learn layers, effects and filters, you can use images collected from the internet mixed with some of your own but be very aware that copyright is an issue and not only do you need to alter it a lot and not be able to recognize the original photo as much you are also learning. When learning and not using images publicly or for profit there is a little more leeway but in general, it is best to use mostly your work or work that has been advertised as free stock photography.
It is okay for this one to be busy with lots happening visually and you will need to have at least 10 to 15 layers.
There still needs to be a main subject or strong focal point.
With copyright issues you are supposed to change the image quite a bit...so the less it is recognizable from the original the better unless it is a photo you took. .
Make sure you use at least 3 layers that have filters, 2 layers with gradients, 10 or more layers with layer effects. One at least needs to come from one of your slow shutter images.