Art of Blending

Members Of This Class Have Said:

“This isn’t the first blend modes class I’ve taken. I’ve had several from experienced, international, and well-known teachers. But most have left me more confused, with just a few handfuls of “recipes” I could use to get an image that was an exact replica of their example. Because of what I have learned in this class, I now feel equipped to continue to explore and use blend modes. I’ve been given a fish before, but you’ve taught me HOW to fish!”

Before

After

Here’s What You’ll Learn In Class

Module 1: Infuse Your Photos With Emotional Power

Great blending starts with great photos that make an emotional connection with the viewer. I’ll show you ways to get that emotional power in the first section of the class. We’ll cover what to look for before pressing the shutter button, as well as after-the-fact power techniques that are easy to add in Photoshop or Photoshop Elements.
(By the way, this works with point-and-shoot cameras, as well as the expensive DSLR types.)

You’ll come away from the first week of class with a fistful of tried-and-true “recipes” for powerful photos and a stash of my favorite go-to textures to blend with your new-and-improved photos.

Module 2: The Magic Of Blending With White

Who knew blending photos with a white background could be so fun and versatile?

You’ll learn a simple method to set up a photo shoot and create a series of photos that are perfect for blend-on-white techniques.

Then watch over my shoulder as I teach you step-by-step how to apply the magic of blend modes on these special photos. (It’s easier than you think and involves a seldom used blend mode.)

Module 3: All Cracked Up

In real life, cracks and crackle usually mean one thing—age (think antique glazed porcelain), but in blending, they’re the bomb! I LOVE the effects I get from cracks and crackle, and so will you after you see this technique in action!

Soon you’ll be adding a bit of wear and tear on your artistic photos or using them to make a bold statement. And of course they’re perfect for anything vintage.

I have some amazing crack and crackle textures for you in this module. Some I created myself and others are from a master crackle creator (used by permission).

Module 4: The Color Wild Card

Color introduces a whole new (exciting) dimension to blending. Use color to control the mood of your digital blends, and find out which colors have a magical effect on your photos. Also learn how to minimize or remove the effect of color when it gets in the way of the look you want.

We’ll have fun experimenting with color in class, but if you’re short on time, you can use my cheat sheet to quickly get the super cool look you want.

Module 5: The Scrapper Factor

As a digital scrapbooker, you already have a blending gold mine at your fingertips. Isn’t it time you learned how to leverage your supply of papers and elements? I’ll show you how to do just that in Module 5. This will open a whole new world of blending possibilities.

I’ll give you plenty of personal examples, and I’ll even throw in my favorite scrapbooking supplies that are terrific for blending.

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Module 6: Give It A (Blended) Edge

You’re probably familiar with photo clipping masks where you clip a photo to a shape to give it an interesting edge. (If you’re not familiar with clipping masks, don’t worry, I’ll show you that too.) In Module 6 we’re going to kick this concept up a notch and learn how to quickly create blended edges. That’s right, the blending creates the edges—if you use the right texture.

I’ll start you out with a set of my textures that are perfect for blended edges, but once you understand the concept, you’ll be able to easily create your own, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of doing this before. It works like a charm!

Class Members Created…

By Smith:

By FloridaGranny:

Module 7: Texture Hunt

Ready to get in the driver’s seat and have some fun? We’re going on a Texture Hunt! You’ll be amazed at what you can find when you know what to look for. (It’s like finding hidden treasure under your very nose.)

You’ll learn several methods of tweaking your textures to prepare them for blending. Once you understand these concepts, you’ll become a texture producing machine.

And don’t be surprised if your family joins in the fun. Past students tell me that family members become some of their best texture hunters. (It’s true. My husband is one of my best texture detectives!)

PLUS, to get you started, I’m going to share more than 75 great textures created by past students.

Module 8: Texture Explosion

In Module 8 we’ll approach creating textures from an entirely different angle. You’ll learn how to create a customized texture in Photoshop or Photoshop Elements that is perfect for your special photo. (This will greatly expand your artistic options.)

I’ll even show you one very simple way to create a new texture without any extra effort on your part. (I’m all for finding easy ways to do things!)

Module 9: The Filter Connection

In this module we’re going to bring out the big guns and add Photoshop filters into the mix. If you thought your blending looked good before, watch out, baby! You ain’t seen nothin’ yet!

I’ll get you started with my own favorite filter combinations and even supply you with pre-made Photoshop Actions—as in push a button and Presto! it’s done. (Woo Hoo! This is gonna be fun.)

Before

After

“While I did know a little about blending, now I know so much more and I love all the new things I can do. Thank you so much.”