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Realistic Composites

Creating an image that's not meant to be completely realistic is relatively easy. Faking realism is a lot harder. The main tasks to consider in making composites are

• Keeping your backgrounds simple.

• Isolating the elements on different layers for easier editing.

• Making sure that the pieces you combine are in proper scale with each other.

• When you're done, merging the layers for a smaller file.

What You Add to the Image Makes It Better Remember also that adding shadows, reflections, or other special effects can make a big difference in the end result. Watch out for perspective, too. If it's wrong, you'll know it, although you ...