Now, I already know what you're going to say about Dainty. The background sucks, as has been lamented about the parosol lady posted Monday. OK, I'm going to work on that BUT that also leads me to a question: if you have a choice between an image with a nice background and a cutout, do you prefer the cutout? And what is your idea of the best background? Plain and simple, like a blank canvas?
I finally figured out (tell me if I'm wrong) that it was the background that turns folks off on my little sweetie here. I call her "Clear Eyes."! And the color combo isn't the best.....
So I got to playing with a monochromatic sepia version and I think it's much, much better. Still, I wanna change that background -- but change it to what? I keep envisioning a couple of camels! I'm don't want to be guilty of stereotyping people, but the long flowing headdress does make me think of this little girl as being from the Middle East. Perhaps that is really why this scan has not been so popular. When was the last time you designed a greeting card with a Middle East theme? SO....any suggestions on how to make this darling really shine would be most appreciated!
I'm still aiming to post the entries in the March "Love Me Two!" challenge before the week is out. However, as usual, I'm behind:) And I'm having issues with my arm. In other words, I need to walk away from the computer and Photoshop -- but it's SO hard to do!:)
Spring came in the most unusual form in our neck of the woods here on the Columbia River in Oregon. It came all broken up. In little pieces. White, wet, fluffy pieces .... After my chiropractor tortured me, I sat in the condo community hot tub, practicing my arm stretches. Steam rose from the 102 degree water as I watched snow flurries fall and a gazillion robins darted from tree to tree. The robins say it's spring. The snow says it ain't so. Who's a woman to believe?!
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9 comments:
Trishia, I envy your Photoshop expertise with these images. Wow! I'm very impressed with the way you were able to remove the bright colors from the kissing couple image. If you want to see some fun photoshop techniques, google "you suck at photoshop". There are some really funny videos there, and some good tips, as well.
As far as the top kissing couple goes, I didn't mind the colors...their hands or specifically fingers are funky or awkward looking as far as I'm concerned. I had that one in my shopping cart 3 times, and finally when it came to the final cut, I didn't buy them. Why? Couldn't get past the fingers. :-)
I'm with you in wishing there is were an short but intensive class for Photoshop. I've found lots of tutorials, but no one seem to be where I go back to time and again. I find I need a combo of written as well as video.
The second beauty...I like your restored version. The stamps in the original were too distracting for me. I like the interest you added to the background of your altered version, but find my eye is drawn more to that than the lovely beauty. :-) My mind wanders and thinks, "hmmm, wonder what's through that doorway, looks interesting. I'd like to explore there!" which totally discounts the beauty who should be the focal point. It may just be my monitor, too, but in the last altered version she seems a little jaundiced. I think leaving more blue in her dress would help her pop off the page more. I think she would also be a great candidate for a cutout, as would the next one down. The cutout would let each person mix and match her to their own choice of background. So for versatility, I'd more likely buy the cutout version.
That's my 2cents for what it's worth. Alot of this comes down to personal tastes.
Re: the kissing couple, After is way better, despite the funny hands. The next one down I like the restored the best. Wallflower just doesn't grab me, may be the colors and that pink thingy in her hair. I'd like Dainty with a better background and a choice..background or cutout. Clear Eyes..lose the stamp. Even in the sepia it's distracting to me. I'd like to see her colorized..her scarf has color and she's colorless. Background.. maybe just a dreamy color wash even in that aqua (?)tone.
Hi Trishia. Your poor arm. I totally sympathize.
1. Though not an option really love your after and think she is quiet a beauty.
2.Also not a choice, but like your altered version because of the muted color plus you can really see the detail of the pearls in her hair...and her hair although it does look a little apocalyptic in the background.
3. Choice #1. I have never been a fan of the dead powdered hair. I love the dress and the color of the green, but the background blends with her skin too much.
4. Choice #2. Dainty's pinks are a tad bright and her background is quite dark. I don't mind this as I can fix these myself, but for some it might not be possible.
5. Choice #3. Clear Eyes. She is an adorable child. Her scarf doesn't bother me, I think it is the peacock wallpaper that is more bothersome and lends a Middle Eastern look. Since this one has sooo much happening the stamp is a distraction also.
Overall I like all of these better than the first round drafts!
You've done a great job working with Photoshop. I agree with others that the 2nd photo of the couple is best. I like the altered version of the second picture.
When I see 'unusual' poses/colors, or strange backgrounds... I tend to think of funny sayings and humor or I'll just cut out the parts I like.
Perhaps you could try softening the background when the backgrounds are too distracting...like the pro photographers do. Also, look at your top sellers and analyze common features. This will give you a better understanding of what your buyers like. Then please consider giving up on the duds..they could suck all your time away and still not sell. Nearly all shop keepers will find they have some duds in their inventory at some point in time. These duds just need to go away, instead of receiving more time and attention.
clear eyes..shes darling..background isn't a problem for me at all...the stamp doesn't "fit" the photo,it very distracting.
i use images with backgrounds and cutouts!...no real preference!
if you find a one week intensive PS class let me know!! i keep finding stuff on PS that i didn't know i had!!!
Hi Trishia
I have always been drawn to Clear Eyes but in truth, always a little niggle held me back, couldn't put my finger on it. She is darling, no doubt about it. As for Middle Eastern cards, I have made one, it was for my Dad who was in Egypt (his young army days) but other than that, not really my place of choice.
Dainty has possibilities but yes, the background does let her down.
I am in awe of anyone who even tries PS so bravo to you.
Wishes
Lynne
Hey Trisha!
Have you ever tried Deke for learning Photoshop? He is at deke dot com and at Lynda dot com.
He is excellent and has a wonderful personality. Ok, OK, he is cute too.
PQ
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