Photo Montage

When you look closely at Photoshop, you can see evidence of past chemical photographic processes. Photoshop is, in effect, a digital darkroom. Having been weaned on old school film photography, I always amazed at how easy it now is to create and manipulate photographic images. My Fort Montgomery photo montage would have been nearly impossible to create when I was in high school. This type of image was often created by illustrators, not photographers.

Assignment:

Your "Photo Montage" will include a large background image and three auxiliary images.Your images should be interrelated in some way. My theme about the American War for Independence should be obvious.

Process:

1. Decide on a theme.
2. Collect images. Make sure your background image is a large file. It's always better that you begin with large images in order to achieve crisp results.
3. Blend the images together using the Gradient Tool with Quick Mask. Minor manipulation can be accomplished using feathered brushes and the Eraser Tool.
4. Use the Text Tool to include a line of basic text. Select a Font that reflects your theme. I've used Poor Richard because of it's 18th Century flavor.
5. Print image and place in folder for evaluation.
6. Post your image on your blog.