Digital Photography & Imaging - Project 2

9.10.2023 - 6.11.2023 || Week 7 - Week 11
Ruchira Nowreen || 0347111
Major: Bachelor of Software Engineering || Minor: Creative Media Design || Taylor's University
Digital Photography & Imaging GCD 61204
PROJECT 2: CONCEPTUAL PHOTOSHOOT & DIGITAL IMAGING

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INSTRUCTION

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PROJECT 2A 

In this stage of the lesson, we learned about the double exposure effect in Photoshop. This technique involves merging two or more different photos together to create a visually artistic effect. Through the process, you can blend and overlay images, allowing for creative combinations that bring out unique and captivating results.

WEEK 7: DOUBLE EXPOSURE

EXERCISE 1: DOUBLE EXPOSURE TUTORIAL

I started my double exposure project by downloading the provided images from class. Once in Photoshop, I began by opening the portrait image. Following the detailed steps outlined in the video tutorial and slides, I meticulously executed each instruction to achieve the finest outcome for my double exposure project.

To efficiently select the subject, I used the Quick Selection tool. Clicking on "Select Subject" in the Option bar helped me automatically choose the main subject, and then I refined the selection further in the "Select & Mask" mode, adjusting the view mode to Overlay for better visibility.

Figure 1: Refining the selection in overlay mode

In the "Select & Mask" mode, I employed the Refine Edge Brush Tool to enhance the selection's details, especially focusing on the hair and eyelashes. Zooming in, I carefully brushed over the intricate areas with a suitable brush size and hardness. After ensuring a clean selection, I proceeded to clean up the background using the Brush Tool or Lasso Tool, setting the output to "Select Layer with Layer Mask" before clicking OK to exit the "Select & Mask" mode.

Figure 2: After removing the background and refining the edges

Creating a new layer and adding a solid color served as the background. I named this layer "BG" and positioned it beneath the portrait layer. To enhance the portrait's contrast, I added a Curve adjustment layer, creating an S curve for a visually appealing effect. I made sure to right-click on the curve layer and select "clipping mask" to apply the adjustment exclusively to the portrait.

Figure 3: After adding a solid color to the background

Next, I introduced the forest image, repositioned it, and created a clipping mask. To achieve a cohesive color scheme, I sampled the "grey sky color" using the eyedropper tool from the "BG" solid color layer. Adding a mask layer allowed me to refine the integration of the portrait and background further.

To emphasize the subject's face, I used the Brush Tool with a black foreground color to selectively unmask certain areas. Duplicating the forest layer, flipping it vertically, and repositioning it added depth to the composition. Adjusting the masks of both the portrait and duplicated forest layer ensured seamless integration.

Figure 4: After adding the forest layer

Next, I incorporated the two bird images came next, with a focus on removing the white background using the Darken or Multiply blending modes. Additionally, I integrated the cloud image into the composition, placing it at the desired position. Subsequently, I duplicated the cloud layer, flipped it vertically, and repositioned it to add depth to the overall composition.

Figure 5: After adding the birds and the clouds

Finally, to enhance the overall tone and mood, I added a Gradient Map fill layer. Experimenting with different gradient maps, I adjusted the opacity for a subtle yet impactful finishing touch to my double exposure masterpiece. Furthermore, I applied adjustment layers for levels and brightness, as well as contrast adjustments, to enhance the overall image.

Figure 6: The adjustment layers used

FINAL OUTCOME:

Figure 7: Final outcome of exercise 1

EXERCISE 2: MY OWN DOUBLE EXPOSURE

For Exercise 2 of the double exposure project, I replicated the process, employing the same steps outlined earlier, but this time with my own portrait. I incorporated downloaded forest images to achieve the desired overlay effect, and for continuity, I reused the birds and clouds from Exercise 1 as they complemented the overall composition and atmosphere of the photo.

Figure 8: The self-portrait used

I decided to create three distinct versions of the picture, each featuring different adjustment layers to explore diverse visual effects. The first version embraced a vibrant and dynamic feel with color adjustment layers, enhancing the overall palette and mood. In the second version, I opted for a classic and timeless aesthetic by applying black and white adjustments, emphasizing the contrast and details in a monochromatic style. Lastly, for the third version, I introduced a creative touch by using a black and white base layer and adding a golden clouds overlay, infusing the image with a unique and warm tone. This variety in adjustments allowed me to experiment with different styles and showcase the versatility of the double exposure concept in my creative process.

Figure 9: Work progress on Photoshop

Figure 10: Glimpse of the layers used 

Figure 11: My own double exposer 1

Figure 12: My own double exposer 2

Figure 13: My own double exposer 3

FINAL OUTCOME

After creating three versions with different adjustment layers, I've decided to submit the first, which is the colored image (fig. 2), as my final choice. From my perspective, this version appeared more realistic and aligned with the visual impact I aimed to achieve in portraying the double exposure effect.

Figure 14: Final outcome of exercise 2

PROJECT 2B

For Project 2B, the Conceptual Product Photoshoot, we initiated by exploring surreal combo pictures on Pinterest to gather references. Following that, we carefully selected household items to feature in our own combo pictures. The finalized items included an orange, an egg, a perfume bottle, and sunglasses, which were subjects for my initial studio photoshoot. In the studio, under Mr. Fauzi's guidance, we meticulously set up the lighting for optimal effects, ensuring the right angles, intensities, and directions of light was crucial to accentuate details and enhance the overall visual impact of the conceptual product photoshoot. A glimpse of one of the many lighting setups in the studio is displayed below.

Figure 15: Glimpse of the photography studio

However, I chose not to utilize the showcased lighting setup. Based on my lecturer's guidance, I discovered that simpler lighting arrangements, where light emanates from a specific angle, suited my items more effectively. Unfortunately, I overlooked capturing a photograph of the studio setup I employed, but it was a setup where the light was coming from the right.

Figure 16: Photos captured at the studio

Despite the studio shoot, the project allowed flexibility, encouraging us to employ proper lighting techniques for home photoshoots. Following class instructions, I ventured into shooting at home as well with different set of intriguing subjects – a banana, brinjal, handwash, sunglasses, and donuts. The following photo illustrates the lighting setup utilized at home.

Figure 17: A glimpse of my lighting set up at home

At home, I maintained a similar lighting angle employed during the studio photoshoot but this time from the top left. I replicated the setup, substituting the studio light with my ring light, which proved to be the most suitable lighting source available. I adjusted the tilt of the ring light to ensure that the primary source of light appeared to be from the top. This intentional tilt was aimed at minimizing the diffusion of the product's shadow to the left. Additionally, I ensured ample brightness in the room by turning on all ceiling lights and spotlights. To enhance light reflection, I used a white plate since a dedicated white surface was unavailable. For the background, I utilized a white cushion to maintain a clean and consistent backdrop for the photos.

Figure 18: Photos captured at home

Upon completing both the studio and home photoshoots, my Project 2B's product photoshoot concluded. Following this, I delved into sketching out my concepts, simultaneously crafting a concise summary for each idea. The subsequent and concluding task involved bringing these concepts to life through the art of photoshopping the products I had captured.

I will be attaching my research, concept summaries, sketches, step-by-step progress in Photoshop, and final artworks below to provide a more comprehensive demonstration.

Research

Mood board:

I initiated the task by researching comparable photos on Pinterest to serve as my reference for the artwork. 

Figure 19: Reference - perfume and trash

Figure 20: Reference - donut and handwash

Figure 21: Reference - banana and orange

Figure 22: Reference - egg and orange

Summary of my ideas:

I plan to incorporate objects with analogous shapes or those that complement each other, drawing inspiration from discovered references. Here are the objects I've gathered from my house, each paired with a conceptual idea.

#1: Egg and Orange - I want to create a broken egg with an orange inside as a replacement for the original egg. This combo symbolizes the delicate balance between fragility (represented by the broken egg) and the vibrant, refreshing energy within (depicted by the orange), reflecting the resilience found in unexpected places.

#2: Sunglasses and Orange - I want to replace the rounded lenses of the sunglasses with a half-cut flat orange, as both shapes are round. By replacing the lenses of the sunglasses with a half-cut orange, we play with the concept of perception - suggesting that viewing the world through a lens of natural vibrancy can add a unique and enriching perspective to life.

#3: Perfume Bottle and Orange - The perfume bottle is intended to combine with an orange to give the essence of an orange-flavored perfume. This combination transforms the perfume bottle into a vessel of nature's essence, infusing the artificial with the refreshing purity of an orange, illustrating the synthesis of synthetic and organic elements.

#4: Banana and Brinjal - I want to replace the inside portion of a peeled banana with a brinjal, as both shapes are similar. This blend of banana and brinjal challenges preconceived notions, merging two seemingly incompatible elements to highlight the beauty in diversity and the unexpected harmony found in embracing differences.

#5: Donut and Sunglasses - I want to replace the rounded lenses of the sunglasses with two donuts, as both shapes are round. Swapping the rounded glasses of the sunglasses with two donuts symbolizes a whimsical reinterpretation of how we perceive the world, emphasizing the sweet, joyful aspects of life and encouraging a lighthearted perspective on the everyday.

#6: Orange and Handwash Pump - I will attach the pump to an orange, intending it to be an orange-flavored handwash. By combining the handwash pump with an orange, you create a visual metaphor for cleansing and revitalization, symbolizing the refreshing essence of an orange-infused handwash as a means to purify not just our hands but also our senses, promoting a rejuvenating and invigorating experience.

Sketches:

Following that, I sketched out my ideas to gain a clearer visualization of the concepts.

Figure 23: Sketch #1

Figure 24: Sketch #2

Figure 25: Sketch #3

Figure 26: Sketch #4

Figure 27: Sketch #5

Figure 28: Sketch #6

Mock-up

I created two artworks, and in the upcoming section, I will discuss the step-by-step details of both mock-ups.

First Attempt:

PROGRESS #1 

I took photographs of the chosen objects in good lighting as instructed by the lecturer.

PROGRESS #2 

I opened the photos on photoshop to remove the background. I selected the objects using the quick selection tool and refined the edges in mask mode.

PROGRESS #3

I made separate layers for the two objects in each image using the lasso tool and renamed them.

PROGRESS #4 

I pasted the cropped objects into a new document, then resized and merged the orange into the egg using the brush tool. Despite facing challenges in aligning the oranges at the same angle as the egg for a realistic appearance, I overcame this hurdle by utilizing various transform options such as perspective, skew, and distort. Ultimately, I achieved a natural look that satisfied me, allowing me to proceed to the next step.

PROGRESS #5

I added shadows to the manipulated object.

PROGRESS #6

I added a solid light pink colour as the background.

PROGRESS #7

I used adjustment layers to the egg and the orange individually using clipping mask for them to look more clear, vivid and realistic.

PROGRESS #8

Finally, I adjusted the curves and color balance of the entire image to ensure cohesion among all objects and prevent an overly unreal appearance.

ARTWORK #1

TITLE: Fragile Resilience

DESCRIPTION: In this visual composition, a broken egg is artfully replaced with a vibrant orange, capturing the delicate equilibrium between fragility (as portrayed by the shattered egg) and the invigorating, lively energy encapsulated within the orange, illustrating resilience discovered in unforeseen moments.

Second Attempt:

PROGRESS #1 

I took photographs of the chosen objects in good lighting as instructed by the lecturer.

PROGRESS #2 

I opened the photos on photoshop to remove the background. I selected the objects using the quick selection tool and refined the edges in mask mode.

PROGRESS #3

I pasted the cropped objects into a new document, then resized and placed the donuts into the sunglasses. Despite facing challenges in aligning the donuts at the same angle as the frame of the sunglasses for a realistic appearance, I overcame this hurdle by utilizing various transform options such as wrap, perspective, skew, and distort. Ultimately, I achieved a natural look that satisfied me, allowing me to proceed to the next step.

PROGRESS #4 

When the angle and placement seemed right to me, I combined the donuts and the sunglasses using the Brush tool.

PROGRESS #5

I incorporated shadows to enhance the realism of the manipulated object. Creating the shadow for the sunglasses proved to be challenging, requiring considerable time to determine the correct shape. I opted to replicate the harsh shadow from the top observed in my original photoshoot rather than attempting to recreate the more diffuse shadow on the right. The harsh shadow not only proved easier to achieve but also complemented the overall picture effectively. I employed a combination of the line tool, ellipse tool, and brush tool to create a distinctive shape for the drop-down shadow. Additionally, I made adjustments to the perspective using the distort and wrap functions within the transform options.

PROGRESS #6

I added a solid sky blue colour as the background.

PROGRESS #7

I added adjustment layers to the donuts and the sunglasses individually using clipping mask for them to pop up more.

PROGRESS #8

Next, I adjusted the brightness/contrast, levels, curves and colour balance of the entire image to ensure cohesion among all objects and prevent an overly unreal appearance.

ARTWORK #2

TITLE: Sugar Vision

DESCRIPTION: In this creative composition, the rounded lenses of sunglasses are whimsically substituted with two donuts, offering a playful reinterpretation of our perception, highlighting the sweet and joyful facets of life while promoting a lighthearted perspective on the everyday.

Final Artwork

Figure 29: Final Artwork - Donut & Sunglasses

I opted to submit the second artwork, as it was entirely my original concept without any internet references, aiming for uniqueness. During class, I sought feedback from my lecturer, Mr. Fauzi, who appreciated both pieces but specifically advised me to prioritize the originality and uniqueness of the second artwork. Additionally, the meaning conveyed by artwork #2 appeared more impactful to me than that of artwork #1.

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FEEDBACK

Project 2A (Exercise 1): It's perfectly done; you may proceed with the submission. Project 2A (Exercise 2): It looks alright as well. Please submit and include additional details in the E-portfolio. Project 2B: - All the ideas are commendable. Bring props that are readily available at home and easy to carry.

- Simple lighting will complement your props more effectively.

- Both the artworks are excellent; I recommend choosing the most original idea, which is the donut and sunglasses combo.

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REFLECTIONS

In the realm of digital photography and imaging, my recent project delved into the captivating techniques of double exposure and combo photo compositions. Exploring the intricacies of the double exposure effect in Photoshop, I skilfully layered, manipulated colours, and applied filters to create visually striking compositions. In the domain of combo photo compositions, the transformative challenge of resizing and seamlessly incorporating donuts onto the rounded frame of sunglasses, or placing an orange into the egg, served as a testament to the harmonious interplay of precision and creativity. These techniques not only elevated my technical proficiency but also opened up new dimensions for artistic expression, forging a powerful synergy where technology converges with storytelling within the pixels.

As I delved deeper into the art of double exposure, each composition became a canvas for visual storytelling, where unexpected pairings and imaginative overlays converged to create narratives that transcended the sum of their parts. This journey not only enriched my skills in digital photography but also instilled a profound appreciation for the art of crafting compelling visuals. The synergy between technical prowess and creative intuition, particularly in the context of combo photo compositions, showcased the immense potential to convey emotions, messages, and stories through the lens of digital artistry. The fusion of diverse elements, such as the whimsical placement of unexpected objects on other object of the same shape or the strategic layering of images, revealed a dynamic interplay that turned each frame into a unique narrative, illustrating the boundless possibilities within the realm of digital photography and imaging.