Some of the key techniques we will be using include adjustment layers, blending modes, and even Illustrator to create some key elements (though it’s possible to follow this without using Illustrator). Feel free to be experimental with your colour values and hues to amplify the overall mood and depth of the piece.
Kervin has kindly provided both an Illustrator file of radial lines and a layered version of the final artwork. This is for your reference only and shouldn’t be used in any other way. Download the resources for this tutorial here.
We’ve used Adobe Photoshop to complete this process, which is available separately or as part of Adobe Creative Cloud. Some students are eligible for an extended free trial of Creative Cloud, and there are also ways to get Photoshop for free.
Use the Pen tool to put a path around her. Only roughly round the hair in a block for now. We will refine that in Photoshop.
If you don’t have Illustrator, just cut her out in Photoshop as normal and skip to Step 3.
Next, use the Clone Stamp (S) to remove the bar and its shadow on the athlete’s hips and legs.
To do this, first create a Gradient fill layer above the background, using a Radial gradient as shown. Next, add a Levels adjustment layer with a clipping mask to the athlete layer, to accentuate the shadows on her.
Add some Gradient Map adjustment layers and Solid Color fill layers to the photo to create some complementary hues, using a blending mode of Color so only the athlete’s hue is adjusted.
To do this, use the Line tool (/) to create a cross. Select both lines, right-click and go to Transform > Rotate. Set your angle to 45° and click Copy. Repeat this step and rotate by 22.5°, 11.25°, 6.25°, and so on. Make sure you reselect your original lines each time you rotate.
