the crow: playing with layers etc

[Bambi]

okay, I am trying to figure out this whole layering/masking/texture thing. So here's what I did:
1. took the picture of the crow
2. added the texture file as a new layer.
3. blended it to 30% opacity
4. merged the layers
5. replaced the soft colours of the crow/tree with a darker colour.

I know it's now mixed media but I did it as a learning activity. What are your thoughts?
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4461549382_90394ac9cd_b.jpg

[Mad Aussie]

The image doesn't interest me much but the fact you are trying to learn does very much!

At least you've begun to experiment with Layers.

Now, can your PSP do a layer mask?

[Mad Aussie]

I'm downloading the trial version of PSP X3 now ... it might help me to help you if I know how this program works.

[MoinMoin]

Well, from the technical side you have done it right, Bambi. But for the picture you should have use another texture - maybe a more grainy one? You should play around with other texture layers. :highfive:

[Mad Aussie]

I can see why my instructions don't help you now Bambi. PSP works quite differently from Photoshop/Elements I'm afraid.

I'll have to try to learn how use layer masks in PSP myself to help you with this.

My suggestion though is to look into PS Elements though. As JAS says in another thread, it's under $100 and great bang for the buck.

[jumpinjimmyjava]

Hi Bambi. I think you did just great. Much better than my first attempts. I can send you a few links to FREE and fantastic textures if you would like. Just let me know - jimmy :thumbup:

[Marko]

Keep the playing coming! I'm loving watching the learning process. :highfive:

JJJ - If you wanted to add links to a few of those textures I know many visitors would appreciate that.

Thx! Marko

[Bambi]

okay thanks everyone.

I know that PSP will put in textures and you can create/save them. But I wanted to see how I could do when I was in control :).

I think a grainier texture probably would work MM and will try it.

and Jimmy, thanks for your kind comments. I would love the link for some more free textures. It's kinda fun.......

MA, I am glad to hear that it works differently because when I looked at tutorials for PS it made my head hurt because it didn't seem to be the same. I thought maybe I just wasn't getting it. I would like to stick with paint shop because i think it gives a bigger bang for the buck then elements. but I might change my mind down the road....

[jumpinjimmyjava]

Hey thanks Marko and Bambi. Here is a link to a Flickr member called SkeletalMess. He creates wonderful FREE textures and has started a textures tutorial that many would fond helpful.

Thistle Applying and Blending Tutorial Promo on Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/skeletalmess/4460319787/)

Also check out his other tutorials and free bird brushes.


Here is another Flickr photographer who creates fantastic free textures, her name is NinianLif

Textures - a set on Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/beapierce/sets/72157601574009156/)

If you want more I will list more or just do a Flickr search for textures.
You can also go to my stream and download my free textures. I really like to use my "Tent Canvas" textures to make a photo look like it was painted on canvas. Here are the instructions for downloading mine or others textures on Flickr

HOW TO DOWNLOAD FREE TEXTURES on FLICKR

To download one of my textures just go to my photo stream
Flickr: jumpinjimmyjava - iKIVA .... you can KIVA too's Photostream (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jimmybrown/)
DOUBLE CLICK the Set called "Free Textures" on the very right hand ,bottom of my page.

There are about 18 textures in this set. The bottom roe, first 3 on the left are all "Tent Canvas" textures.

Hover your mouse pointer over any of the 3 and the words "My Tent Canvas Textures" will appear

DOUBLE CLICK on the one you like. When it opens now DOUBLE CLICK the tab at the top edge of the texture photo that says Large Size ( it has a magnifying glass beside it )

Now RIGHT CLICK anywhere on the large size photo, a save window will open, Now click on the "Save Image As"

Now save it to a new folder you make in pictures ,call it TEXTURES

Last click " Save" at the bottom of the window, and your texture should now be saved in the "Textures" folder you just created and ready to use any time you want it..

I hope this helps. Let me know - jimmy :)