Manual photo backdrop effect
So here's one I think most everybody stumbles on eventually, but a lot of new folks may appreciate a little push. The final product is something like those nicely lit almost-velvet photo backdrops. Ya know the ones I'm talking about.
My way about it is incredibly simple, yet it yields very nice, seemingly complex results. Here's what I do...
A) Make a new layer set, called 'Backdrop' or something like that.
B) In that set, I make between 3 and 7 or 8 new transparent layers.
C) Pull out that handy-dandy(although B-List for most people) Gradient Fill tool in radial gradient mode, with a selection active if you're into that.
D) Start filling layers. Draw one gradient on one layer from one place to another. On the next layer, draw another gradient from a different place to another. Repeat, repeat, repeat. Just don't use identical fills, or they're useless.
E) To maximize your own human aesthetic input, make sure all the layers are set to normal blend. It won't look like much right now, but that's all right. Put layer masks on all the gradient layers, and get to work. Bounce from mask to mask, painting with different opacities and brush sizes(keeping the hardness near 0-25% for the best look). This is where it starts taking shape. Your eye will carry you from here, so I'm no longer needed. Just remember, when you're done, flatten the layer set to keep the size down and the file clean.
So, BioRUST, whaddaya think?
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