The 2D design production project, creating an editorial image looks at composition techniques and image adjustment skills to pitch a creative editorial image that requires interpreting and response to all areas of the brief including adequate planning to meet time and budget expectations. Project 1 explores the adaptation of previously learnt skills with the combination of researching new techniques that match our developed skill level to be able to achieve strong outcomes. Not only are practical skills developed but preparing for industry by presenting; plans, budgets, timelines, ethical and sustainable practices and unique insights to the customer or business. 

Image analysis, retouching, colour correction, curves are all various techniques that can be combined in both Photoshop and Lightroom to address the brief of project 1 for a creative editorial image. It’s important to set a goal for image manipulation and using small details to create photo-realism, as seen in many of Christophe Gilbert’s pieces. Gilbert is said to be the best 21st-century photo manipulator who describes himself, “perfectionist and perpetual student. As a self-described detail-maniac freak” (Webneel Multimedia n.d.) As a graphic design student project 1 will extending my knowledge and technical ability while using the skills I have previously developed so that I can be more confident and successful in future outcomes.

Completing a more finalised draft I was able to review my progress and make sure that my idea was capable within the time and skills I have. I took less time masking my images and some were not as high res so that I could work quicker. It turned out after reviewing this stage that my composition was looking a bit overproduced, too dark and uncomposed. This helped to back up what I had previously thought myself and also gave me new insights and areas to keep working on. To balance my composition better after this review stage I research into the rule of thirds, this is something that was very new to me. "The rule of thirds is a powerful compositional technique for making photos more interesting and dynamic." (McHugh n.d.) After understanding this technique I was able to reposition my composition quite easily and suddenly it became less crowded and one element flowed into the next.

Once I thought I was on the home run of creating this editoral image I came across a major difficulty in my production process as I had not perfectly masked the model until I was happy with the layout and image colour. I came to the point where I was finalising my work making sure it was in a photoshop document correct size ect. I went to mask my image but as the hair and background were similar colours I could not get enough contrast between them to get a clear mask. I had to think of a solution to this as I was too far into the project, by adding a colour behind the model and changed the blending mode this helped to create a higher contrast so then I could use channels to create the mask. This still wasn't very refined I either got hairlines that were sharp and without soft edges or I got too much background between the wispy pieces of hair. To solve this I used the 2 masks I created, although the were not perfect by adding opacity to the mask I could have both masks which supported each of their own positive attributes. 

I had set out what I need to complete in the set time however I didn't I've myself more time before it was due in case of any hiccups along the way. When I got to the final masking stage and i realised it was difficult image to do a complex mask on... This resulted in a lot more work when I needed to finish this presentation invoice and other involvements in the editorial project. As I had planned the time I thought the project should take if run smoothly not everything is always straight forward and I need to adapt my plans for this. 

Project 1 on creating an editorial image has really pushed me into learning and discovering more about Photoshop. Although I now know many skills in both Photoshop and Lightroom I never use it outside of classes because I am not confident and find it tedious. By completing this project I was able to see my skills all come together which gives me confidence in the programs and my skills so hopefully I am able to process images in other projects and work confidently. My final outcome would not be possible without feedback and reviewing from both graphic designers as well as family and friends who see it in a different light. Research throughout the whole project (not just at the beginning stages) taught me skills that helped me to have the ability to produce this editorial image. Though this it is again reinforced and proven to me the importance of thorough research. Next time I will be more aware of the time I have and making sure I always have some up my sleeve incase of surprises.