In this tutorial we will examine the methods behind creating an image that contains a window to another world within it, as we smash a hole in urban life to reveal the jungle waiting in the wings. We’ll look at several basic techniques that are the cornerstones of creating any mixed media composition, including simple transformations, creating clipping paths and layer masking.

Download Tutorial Files : Urban Tiger Tutorial Files (2698)

Step 1

Open up ‘wall.jpg’ that you just downloaded. As uninspiring as it looks right now, this photograph is actually going to serve as the basis for our finished image – so take a moment to get familiar with it.

Step 2

Etching is the process of tracing around an element to extract it from its background. In this instance, what we actually want to do is etch the central hole in the wall, and then remove it to create a frame. Bearing this in mind, hit ‘P’ to select the Pen tool and zoom in to 300-400%.

Step 3

Start creating anchor points that trace precisely around the gap in the wall. Experiment with dragging your mouse once you have clicked to get a curved result. If curving around an object results in an anchor that doesn’t allow you to continue etching easily,try Alt-clicking the anchor point to ‘pick up’ the path.

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