This latest assignment focused on Photoshop, working with layer masks. This was a fun project because ERASING is strictly forbidden (automatic fail). All work must be done using layer masks, adjustment masks, etc. I’ve been working with layer masks for quite a while, but I learned several new techniques for this exercise, which made assembling this composite photo happen quickly.
Prof. Tortorelli stressed that he wanted an interesting composition, but be very careful with lighting, so this shoot should be outdoors. I just love all the different modern architecture around Curtis Hixon Park – it was actually really difficult to choose where to shoot – there are so many great spots around the Tampa Museum of Art. I settled on a glass alcove at the museum. Prof. Tortorelli will probably poke at me about the lighting – it became a challenge with clouds moving across the sun, but it was also really interesting with reflections and shadows in that space.
I took maybe 40 photos of Morgaine moving around and posing in the space, and she changed outfits halfway through. As I was putting the composite together, a little story started to emerge around Morgaine’s poses. The eye seems to flow from left to right on this piece, and it tells a story of a relationship, starting together but frail, breaking apart, then two individuals standing alone, but undamaged, ready to move on. That’s what the final photo was telling me.
I really enjoyed doing this piece, and while it seems like it would be difficult to do, it was really quite easy using Photoshop’s massive array of masking tools.