Grunge Effect
I have always been partial to the grunge effect that many digital artists achieve in their images. Until now, it was such a mystery to me on how other artists achieved the rugged, vintage, surreal look with their images. Since I began my photo artistic life journey with Sebastian Michaels online course I am finding out first hand how the grunge effect can be achieved in my own work.
To assist me in learning the grunge effect technique I watched Sebastian Michaels “Grunge Layers” video tutorial. In the video he is using one focus image and three texture layers, in which he applies various blend modes. Consequently, after watching the video I could not wait to try out the technique and to share my results with you.
The Arsenal
Before I began creating I gathered up all images I thought I would need. It was hard to limit myself to three texture layers, as a result, I ended up with seven texture layers. Ultimately, the number of texture layers to use is your personal artistic choice.
- Focus image – model image provided by Sebastian Michaels
- Tree bark – photo I took (top left)
- Wire mesh – by MagicalReality Designs (center left)
- Two Flowers – by FoxeySquirrel (center bottom)
- Photo Artistic Overlay – by Julie Mead (top right)
- Blue/Rust grunge background – by MagicalReality Designs (bottom left)
- Mottled rust grunge background – G & T Designs (bottom right)
Once I had all the images gathered up in one location I then began creating. First, opened the focus image in Photoshop CC. Secondly, inserted all seven texture layers and applied a blend mode to each layer. Finally, I re-arranged the layers until I achieved the effect I liked.
The Results
As a result of this exercise, I learned that you can achieve different effects just by re-ordering the texture layers and changing the blend modes. To demonstrate this I used the same eight images in both works, as can be seen in the examples below, I achieved two slightly different results, . As you can see, the layering and blend mode technique opens up so many artistic doors.
Thank you so much for stopping by so I can share with you my artistic journey.
Happy Creating,
Bec
PS If you would like to see more of my work stop by my photo gallery.
Also, if you would like to purchase wall art for your home stop by my store.
