Tools: Fujifilm X-T100 Camera, Adobe Photoshop

Technique: Composite Imagery

Process: I sketched out a few ideas on paper, then took multiple photos of my model in multiple positions with many different lighting angles as I wasn't quite sure what would work best. I set up the frame in a makeshift light box and set the suitcase on a high contrast lounge to make it easier to quick select in Photoshop. I tried to get more familiar with Photoshop and try out some new techniques. I quick-selected and copied each image onto one canvas. Individually made adjustments to each layer to get similar lighting. I then used gradient to darken half of the image and used the lighting effects tool to put a spotlight on the model.I added shadows to each of the plants and embossed the picture frame to make it appear as if it is sitting off the wall. I spot edited the models face and then used the 'posterize' adjustment to the whole image to make everything appear as one and give a slight cartoon effect. I spent a lot of time making small adjustments that I unfortunately could not list every single edit.

Reflection: The final outcome is actually quite different from what I originally designed, it went through many variations trying to find the one most appealing. I hope to improve on my Photoshop skills as there are many things I would like to improve on this image. I realise now that I should have taken the models picture in less direct lighting, possibly split lighting as I found it very difficult to match her to the shadowing to the rest of the image. I was unsuccessful this time but practice makes perfect.

The four photographs used within my final composite image.

Further photographs for practice using both a manual camera and Adobe Photoshop.