Using texture layers with blend modes in Photoshop
In this post we take a brief look at using texture layers with blend modes in Photoshop to create a more artistic final image. We start with a simple still life image on a white background and turn it into what you see above. This is done using 3 added texture layers. The images used as texture layers were taken around the house using various everyday objects. I would encourage you to create your own bank of images to use as textures rather than relying on stock photos or downloads. Yes, there are some good resources out there – some are free and others paid for. It is fine to use them for private work. But, if you are doing commercial work you must check the licence allows you to use the photos in that context. Also, if you enter competitions you will normally be expected to create an image using only your own photos. Besides, it is good practise to create your own anyhow!
You will see each of the texture images and how they have been blended together in Photoshop, including any masks used. Although the final image looks quite complicated, the process of creating it is not that hard. The main obstacle to creating images like this is our imaginations!
I hope this has encouraged you to have a go yourself. Keep a look out for interesting textures and patterns when out with your camera so that you can gradually build your own collection of textures ready to use in Photoshop. You can use them for a wide variety of application, not just still life images like this one. For example, you can add textures to text or to background in portraits. Use your imagination and see what you can come up with.
If you are very new to Photoshop then you might like to consider learning through one on one in person or through online sessions. There are also more videos like this on our YouTube channel.
© Joe Lenton, October 2016