The ability to make objects appear as if they are defying gravity is a captivating skill that can help you capture attention. This technique, often employed in product and still life photography, adds a touch of magic and intrigue to your images, leaving viewers wondering how you achieved such a feat.
Coming to you from Camera Club Live, this insightful video tutorial demonstrates the process of creating a levitation effect using a pair of glasses as the subject. The video emphasizes the importance of meticulous attention to detail and proper technique, both during the shoot and in post-processing, to achieve a convincing final image. It breaks down the process into manageable steps, making it accessible to photographers of all skill levels.
The video begins with meticulously constructing the set by utilizing a piece of matte Perspex to avoid unwanted reflections, a towel to provide a light surface and cast shadows, and a simple card background. The lighting setup involves a single flash head positioned strategically to create a defined shadow beneath the glasses, further enhancing the illusion of levitation. One then carefully captures two separate images: one with the subject and shadow, and another with just the background.
The post-processing stage involves combining these two images in Photoshop. This utilizes the object selection tool to isolate the glasses and create a mask, effectively removing the supporting glass shelf. You then paint back in the shadow to ensure a seamless and realistic final image. This step-by-step explanation of the masking and layering process is particularly valuable for those new to Photoshop or compositing techniques. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
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