Objective:
In this project, you will learn the basics of photo manipulation as well as further exploring composition, elements, and principles of design. You will create a montage of images that communicates a message, opinion, thought, feeling, or narrative. The self-portrait project will be your first experience using Photoshop to create fine art. You will use a digital camera or phone to shoot a picture of yourself specifically for this project. You will also collect additional objects, photos, or images from the web. You will then fade those items in and out of the photo using a variety of Photoshop tools and techniques.
You will also need to use some text. You may use a quote, a passage from the Bible, handwritten notes and more. Be sure to look at the examples for good ways to integrate text. The text that you use should be fully integrated into the image. It should not function as a label sitting on the top of your artwork.
Your final piece should look very descriptive and very much explain who you are. You should not try to include pictures of everything you like. Instead, focus on portraying some sort of abstract idea. Think about how everything conveys that idea; everything from pictures to color choices and compositions affects the viewer’s response.
Initial:
I brainstormed ideas involving many synchronistic images of my face swirling into an infinite loop. I leaned towards collecting many of my favorite images and crafting a mood board, but I soon realized that this would not allow me to perform to my best technical abilities. Words, complex shapes, and vivid colors drew my attention the most. Thus, I wanted to merge myself with my emotions and create a visual depiction of this.
Final: Kaleidoscope Eyes
This piece reflects my vision on life and how I feel emotionally. The multitude of saturated colors express the warmth of my persona and its complex nature. Art is a significant subject for me personally, hence, why I made it the focus of my piece.
Created using Photoshop on iPad
