How to Make a Photo Composite in Adobe Photoshop

Combining elements from multiple photographs into one image allows you to create something new and unexpected. In this quick tutorial, learn how visual artist Temi Coker combines two photos in Adobe Photoshop to create an image that stretches the imagination.

  1. STEP 1: PREP YOUR IMAGES

    Start by dragging the image of the betta fish into the Photoshop document as a new layer on top of the image of the model.

  2. STEP 2: ADJUST THE POSITION

    Using the transform controls, rotate and position the fish wherever you want. Next, right-click on the fish and select Warp to manipulate it further.

  3. STEP 3: REVEAL THE FACE

    Select the fish layer and click on the Layer Mask icon to create a mask. Coker used the Brush tool with black selected to allow areas of the model’s face to show through.

  4. STEP 4: REPEAT THE STEPS

    Drag the betta fish again to add another layer; then follow the previous steps to position the additional fins to create flowing “hair” on the model. Coker alternated turning layers on and off to edit in isolation; you can experiment the same way or view the composition in its entirety.

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