Predator PH-492

The image sequence below represents the basic layers in the finished composite. It does not illustrate the copious tweaks made to source images to create it. Software used includes Photoshop and various 55mm plugins from Digital Film Tools. The final composite image is 1280px x 697px. The sequence images have been resized for ease of loading.

STEP 1:

Start with a blank canvas in Photoshop. I usually start with a canvas size of 1280px x 1024px and then adjust after the image is complete.

STEP 2:

Pull in the first source. Since this one's on the bottom layer, it will be used for distant foliage.

STEP 3:

Add some mist to cover the image and create atmosphere.

STEP 4:

A Mayan pyramid with a covering of mist is added - not too much - because the pyramid is closer to the subject.

STEP 5:

Position the "creepy" pathway. Time to fill in the gap above it.

STEP 6:

Select a portion of the pathway. Then, copy and paste onto a new layer and stretch to cover the gap. It still looks acceptable.

STEP 7:

Add some rocks and water. There is a little bit of a water flowing over the rocks into a small pond. Also, the water was cloned to cover more area and enabled matching the tree roots on the right.

STEP 8:

Position the old, rock wall and mask off an opening that leads to the pyramid.

STEP 9:

Enhance the opening with a very light mist. There's no telling what one will find through that opening!

STEP 10:

The secondary Predator is positioned on the "creepy" pathway - fangs showing and ready for battle!

STEP 11:

The primary Predator is placed on the rocks at the edge of the water.

STEP 12:

Stop the flow of water under the Predator's right foot and rotate his left foot for a better stance on the rocks.

STEP 13:

Add shadows for the Predator to enhance the illusion of depth.

STEP 14:

Finally, add the Fisher PH 492 and shadows.

STEP 15:

Select the entire image with a feathered, rectangular marquee tool and invert the selection.

STEP 16:

Fill with black and change the layer blend to "overlay."

STEP 17:

Apply a bleach bypass filter.

STEP 18:

Apply a yellow photographic filter and add the logo.

Download the final composite