Composite Image Guide: How to Create Composite Images

A composite image is a digital image composed of elements from different images and photographs. In photography, a composite image is a post-production creation in which elements from different photographs are edited together using photo editing software to create a new image as the end result. In video, compositing refers to placing visuals from different sources together in the one frame. This is common in films that use digital effects and green screens.

Composite images can be created for several different effects.

1. 1. Realism: Although anything is possible when creating a composite image, it is possible to use composite image techniques to create an entirely believable and photorealistic image. For example, realistic composite images can be created to place people together in an image that we're never present for a photoshoot together.
2. 2. Fantasy: Composite images are often used to create fantastical images that still look photorealistic. Everyday subject matter can be placed in magical environments or absurd situations through the magic of composite imagery.
3. 3. Motion effect: Composite images can show the stages of movement of a single subject within one frame. In sports photography, composite images can break down the movements of a gymnast or high jumper in a way that would never be possible with a traditional image, which would either depict just one stage of movement or a blur.
4. 4. Storytelling: Composite images are effective storytellers, as the image maker can control all the elements in the image to convey a storytelling moment clearly. For example, composite images are often used for movie posters, as they can bring together many elements of a film’s story (such as characters, setting, conflict, and genre) into a single frame.

Digital compositing requires the use of photo editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop. Follow this tutorial for creating a composite image in photo editing software:

1. 1. Choose image elements. Decide which image elements you want to combine and overlay in your composite photo. Open each image as a separate file in your photo editing software. For the most successful composite image, choose elements with similar lighting and similar pixel count so that the elements will work seamlessly together.
2. 2. Create layers. Create a new image file for your composite image. Create and label a new layer for each composite image element so you can easily manipulate each layer individually. The background you’ve chosen for your composite image and make that your first layer. To select specific elements of your other images, use precise selection tools like the lasso or the magic wand to add new elements with new layers. When using the move tool to move different elements of the composite image, layers will allow you to move the different parts of the image independently.
3. 3. Use masks to blend or hide elements. Using the mask button to create a layer mask on a single layer can allow you to easily hide, reveal, or fade sections of that photo element within the composite image using the brush tool. You can also use blend modes to make a fading gradient that will blend two or more elements of your composite image together.
4. 4. Adjust image colors. Once your image elements are collected together in the composite image, use your photo editing software’s image color-adjusting tools to change brightness, contrast, saturation, and color temperature to bring each single image element into harmony with the composite image. Begin with images that are already close in lighting and color, so that your photo manipulations won’t drastically change the original images.

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