As you edit a photo, what are the general guidelines you should follow?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

1. Gather your photos and plan your layers. The graphics you choose should convey the overall message of your composite image. Choose high-quality photos with similar lighting characteristics. Create an ordered list of the layers you plan to include. Select images that are consistent with the visual effect you want to achieve as well as with customer requirements.2. Evaluate the best way to move outside images into the composite. Sometimes it is easier to create a selection first and move the selection into the composite image as a layer. Other times, you may want to bring in the entire image and then erase or mask portions of the image. Once the layer exists, choose the correct tool for making edits and erasures.3. Create layer adjustments. Fine-tune your layers by creating layer adjustments. Look at each layer and evaluate how it fits into the background scene. Experiment with different adjustment tools until the layer looks just right. Decide whether to use destructive or nondestructive edits. Keep in mind the standard tonal dimensions of brightness, saturation, and hue.4. Edit layer styles. Add variety to your layers by including layer styles such as shadow, glow, emboss, bevel, overlay, and stroke. Make sure the layer style does not overwhelm the overall image or detract from previous layer adjustments.