Digital Photography & Imaging - Week 7
Ruchira Nowreen || 0347111
Major: Bachelor of Software Engineering || Minor: Creative Media Design || Taylor's University
Digital Photography & Imaging GCD 61204
WEEK 7: LECTURE, TUTORIAL, PRACTICAL || 9.10.2023
This week, Mr. Fauzi provided us with insights into the technique of double exposure, which involves merging two exposures in a single image to create captivating and expressive outcomes. This process combines multiple images to produce results that are surreal, emotional, and even humorous.
Figure 1: Lecture's slide
TUTORIAL
In this week's tutorial, we were introduced to the techniques of creating double exposure effects. A detailed, step-by-step procedure for achieving this effect was presented, complemented by the provision of six reference videos for further guidance.
Figure 2: Tutorial's slide
Figure 3: Demo video 1
Figure 4: Demo video 2
Figure 5: Demo video 3
Figure 6: Demo video 4
Figure 7: Demo video 5
Figure 8: Demo video 6
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.
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| Figure 9: 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.
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| Figure 10: 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.
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| Figure 11: 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.
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| Figure 12: 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.
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| Figure 13: 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.
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| Figure 14: The adjustment layers used |
FINAL OUTCOME:
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| Figure 15: Final outcome of exercise 1 |
PRACTICAL
During the practical session, we were provided with a step-by-step demonstration video guiding us through the process of executing the double exposure exercise. This video served as a valuable aid, offering a visual walkthrough to assist us in mastering the technique.
Figure 16: Demo video 7
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.
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.
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| Figure 17: Work progress on Photoshop |
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| Figure 18: Glimpse of the layers used |
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| Figure 19: My own double exposer 1 |
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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.
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REFLECTION
This week's immersion into the realm of double exposure photography under Mr. Fauzi's guidance has been a rich tapestry of learning and creativity. The initial lecture laid the conceptual groundwork, unveiling the emotional and imaginative potential inherent in combining two exposures within a single image. The subsequent tutorial and practical sessions provided a hands-on exploration of the technique through a step-by-step procedure and reference videos, effectively demystifying the complexities of Photoshop and illustrating the art of crafting visually compelling double exposure effects.
Exercise 1 served as a practical application of the acquired knowledge, where transforming a provided portrait became a meticulous yet rewarding endeavor. The process of selection, background adjustment, and layer manipulation not only honed technical skills but also emphasized the personalized and artistic dimension of double exposure. The practical session, accompanied by a demonstration video, reinforced these techniques, offering a real-time perspective that solidified my confidence in navigating Photoshop's intricacies.
Transitioning to Exercise 2, where I applied the learned techniques to my own portrait, added a layer of creativity to the learning experience. Creating multiple versions with different adjustment layers allowed me to explore the versatility of double exposure and experiment with diverse visual effects. Overall, this week's tasks seamlessly blended theoretical insights with practical application, fostering a deeper understanding of double exposure photography and sparking a newfound enthusiasm for the creative possibilities within this captivating medium. Looking forward, I am eager to continue refining my skills and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling through the artful use of double exposure.
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