006 Fixing a Busy Background

Listen to the MP3 File Now! (time: 6:16 | file size 3.2mb)

The photo above has a very cute subject but is not a very good photograph because the subject gets lost in the background. You can fix this problem by lightening or darkening the background, which adds contrast. Above is the original photo next to the darkened background photo and below is a lightened background photo. I accomplished this effect in photoshop by making two layers. The top layer has the goat outlined with no background and the back layer had the background vignetted background from solid background to white or black. Notice how the image seems to be lifted off the page, more so with the white background, this is because of the contrast.

You can accomplish this same effect with a can of spray-paint, 2 duplicate photos and an exacto knife.

First spray paint just the top of the first photo with quick swipes with the can of spray-paint.

Next cut out the second photo with the exacto knife.

Using spray mount, spray the back of the photo you just cut out and place it on the spray-painted photo.

Tips on Fixing a Busy Background:
• Make sure you have multiple copies of the image (don't ruin your only copy).
• Start spraying off the photo then move the paint stream across the photo quickly, and make multiple passes.
• Be careful not to overdo the painting, you want to reduce the background not eliminate it.
• Spray paint your background paper the same color to make the photo blend into the background.
• Place a peice of velum over the background then cut-out over that for a lightened effect.
• Professionals photographers place backgrounds behind thier subjects for contrast for this same type of effect

Tell me what you think Click Here