28.08.2023 - 2.10.2023 || Week 1 - Week 6
Ruchira Nowreen || 0347111
Major: Bachelor of Software Engineering || Minor: Creative Media Design || Taylor's University
Digital Photography & Imaging GCD 61204
PROJECT 1: COLLAGE & DIGITAL IMAGING
INSTRUCTION
PROJECT 1A
I am engaging in a project focused on learning Composition through Collage Design. In Project 1, I am undertaking two exercises—one physical and one digital. My goal is to develop a theme or idea by incorporating layers of images, applying design principles, and refining the overall composition.
WEEK 2: COLLAGE
Initially, we were tasked with selecting design elements for the physical collage from old magazines or printed pictures. Subsequently, we created three distinct compositions using different sets of elements. These compositions were then presented to Mr. Fauzi for his evaluation. While he acknowledged the merit of all three, he ultimately chose one that, in his view, exhibited the best flow. Attached below are the three compositions I crafted for consideration.
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Figure 1: Composition 1
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Figure 2: Composition 2
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| Figure 3: Composition 3 |
Following Mr. Fauzi's selection of the third composition, I embarked on finalizing it to enhance its visual appeal. I made nuanced adjustments such as changing the background color to black, aiming to make it more visually striking. Moreover, I incorporated a few additional elements to achieve a more refined and complete overall appearance.
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| Figure 4: Behind the scene for the collage |
FINAL OUTCOME
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Figure 5: Final composition
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WEEK 3: DIGITAL COLLAGE
The subsequent phase of this module involved an introduction to digital collage using Photoshop. This marked our initial exposure to Photoshop, with Mr. Fauzi guiding us through the fundamental steps of creating a collage in class. Adhering to the instructions and employing the given composition elements, we delved into the process of crafting various collages on Photoshop. The assignment was to submit three compositions for Mr. Fauzi's consideration, but I ended up creating several, which I will showcase below.
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| Figure 10: Composition 5 |
Out of the options, Mr. Fauzi favored the last composition (Composition 5) and recommended that I move forward with it.
WEEK 4: ADJUSTMENT LAYERS & FILTERS
The subsequent step involved refining the collage in Photoshop, incorporating adjustments to elements like brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, and curves through the application of adjustment layers. Mr. Fauzi suggested minor tweaks, expressing that the composition was already well-executed and didn't necessitate substantial alterations. Adhering to his guidance, I implemented the specified adjustments, yielding the edited version of the collage displayed below.
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| Figure 11: The adjustment layers |
FINAL OUTCOME
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| Figure 12: Final outcome with adjustment layers |
Following that, we were given the option to choose the best digital collage composition in .jpg format, with the choice of including or excluding the adjustment layers. Following the advice of my lecturer, I selected the edited version of my collage, as it appeared more balanced in its overall composition.
PROJECT 1B
In this phase of the project, we'll be delving deeper into the realm of Photoshop, exploring additional features and techniques. This includes activities such as photo manipulation and the transformation of a black and white photo into a colorful one using various tricks and tools in Photoshop.
WEEK 5: DIGITAL IMAGING EXERCISE 1 - Photo Manipulation (Hearst Mansion)
PART I: SHAZAM
In this particular exercise, we were provided with an image of the Hearst Mansion and a picture of Shazam along with a step-by-step process demonstration video to watch, follow, and complete the task. Our assignment involved using Photoshop to meticulously cut out Shazam and seamlessly integrate him into the mansion scene. The goal was to achieve a high level of realism by incorporating reflections and shadows, making the composition appear as authentic as possible.
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| Figure 13: Hearst Mansion image (provided) |
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| Figure 14: Shazam image (provided) |
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| Figure 15: Shazam - background removed using Photoshop |
In this step, I eliminated the background from the Shazam image using the Quick Selection Tool.
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| Figure 16: Shazam with the Hearst Mansion as the background in Photoshop |
In this step, I pasted Shazam onto the Hearst Mansion image and performed necessary adjustments. Initially, I resized Shazam to match the background, adjusted its color, and introduced a subtle amount of noise. Following that, I created a new layer for the shadow using the brush tool, adjusting its opacity to 60% and applying a Gaussian blur for a more realistic effect. The subsequent layer was dedicated to the reflection, achieved by duplicating the Shazam layer, inverting it, and placing it upside down. I applied adjustments like reducing brightness, contrast, and saturation, adding fade, and concluding with a Gaussian blur to achieve the final result.
FINAL OUTCOME
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| Figure 17: Final outcome of the Hearst Mansion with Shazam |
PART II: MY REFLECTION
For the next task, I replicated the previous steps, but this time I replaced Shazam with my own picture. I had taken the photo against a white wall to facilitate the separation from the background. The process involved resizing, color matching, noise addition, shadow creation, and reflection adjustments, resulting in a final composition.
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| Figure 21: Final outcome |
After acheiving the final outcomes, I sought feedback from Mr. Fauzi, who affirmed that the work was well done. Following his approval, I proceeded with the submission. This marked the conclusion of this particular task, and the subsequent task, focusing on recoloring, will be discussed in the following section.
WEEK 6: DIGITAL IMAGING EXERCISE 2 - Recoloring Black & White
PART I
In this exercise, we were given an B&W image along with a step-by-step process demonstration video to watch, follow, and complete the task. We had the freedom to choose our preferred colour. I successfully accomplished the task by meticulously following each instruction in the video, a detailed account of which will be discussed below.
To begin, I created separate layers for each element I intended to color, such as hair, eyes, lips, coat, and skin. Using the brush tool and a chosen colour, I meticulously filled in each part to emulate real-life colouring. Once satisfied, I adjusted the layer types from normal to overlay or soft light, depending on what suited each element best.
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| Figure 22: The different layers made on Photoshop |
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| Figure 23: The work process on Photoshop |
FINAL OUTCOME
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| Figure 24: Final outcome of recolouring exercise part I |
After completing the recoloring task, I made minor adjustments to enhance the vibrancy and realism of the pictures. Upon completion, I sought feedback from my lecturer, who affirmed that the work was good.
PART II
In the second part of this exercise, we were provided with a black and white image, reference images for skin tone and hair color, and a step-by-step process demonstration video to guide us through the task. We were given the flexibility to choose our preferred colors for fur, lipstick, background, earrings, and eyes. I effectively completed the task by methodically following each instruction in the video, and I'll provide a detailed account of the process below.
I initiated the process by establishing distinct layers for individual elements, akin to the previously described exercise. However, in contrast, I employed an alternative technique, opting for the quick selection tool instead of the conventional brush tool for colouring.
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| Figure 25: The different layer made on Photoshop |
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| Figure 26: The work process on photoshop |
FINAL OUTCOME
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Figure 27: Final outcome of recolouring exercise part II
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Upon completion, I sought approval and feedback from my lecturer before finalizing the work for submission.
FEEDBACK
Project 1A (Physical Collage):
All options are good, but the third composition with the black background stands out due to its vibrancy and cohesive flow. Opt for this one and include a "behind the scenes" section on the E-portfolio for enhanced grades.
Project 1A (Digital Collage):
The fifth composition, with the added adjustment layers, stands out as the best choice. You can proceed with this option.
Project 1B (Part I):
The outcome looks pleasing; you may proceed with the submission.
Project 1B (Part II):
The outcome appears flawless; you may submit it and proceed to finalize the E-portfolio.
REFLECTION
Project 1 was a multifaceted exploration, weaving together hands-on experience in physical collage creation and digital design using Photoshop. Engaging with both mediums offered a holistic understanding of composition principles and design aesthetics. The tactile process of selecting elements from magazines for the physical collage fostered an intimate connection with design elements, leading to the crafting of three distinct compositions. Transitioning to the digital realm in Photoshop was an enlightening experience, as it propelled me into a more expansive and dynamic space for creativity. The iterative nature of the project allowed for experimentation and learning from the nuances of Mr. Fauzi's feedback, contributing significantly to my design journey.
Throughout the project, keen observation became a cornerstone of the learning process. Mr. Fauzi's insightful feedback on the physical collage compositions provided valuable perspectives on flow and visual coherence. The observation extended to the digital phase, where the intricate process of integrating Shazam into the Hearst Mansion scene required acute attention to detail. Additionally, the recoloring exercises demanded a discerning eye for color selection and layer adjustments. This phase of the project underscored the importance of meticulous observation in digital imaging, where subtle adjustments and thoughtful layering significantly impact the final outcome.
The project's findings encompassed a range of discoveries, from refining design instincts to mastering Photoshop techniques. The selection of Composition 5 and the subsequent photo manipulation exercises highlighted the significance of storytelling through visuals. Exploring the vast capabilities of Photoshop for photo manipulation and image recoloring revealed the depth of creative possibilities within digital design. Moreover, the project underscored the importance of adaptability and problem-solving, particularly when reconciling the disparate demands of physical and digital elements. The findings from Project 1 have laid a solid foundation for future design endeavors, emphasizing the seamless integration of various skills for impactful visual storytelling.
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