The textures I prefer to use are "Dirty Pictures" from Totally Rad (http://www.gettotallyrad.com). The interface is incredibly easy, just a few clicks and I have an assortment of 21 texture choices added to my image, viewable in a thumbnail collection. I can scroll thru the samples and choose the one that best suits my vision. I can then customize the image to my liking, tweaking opacity, blending mode, etc. I downloaded the software, tried it on one image, and was hooked--- I sent Totally Rad a fan letter right away! The texture is added as a separate layer, so I can set up layer masks to control or remove the effect in certain areas if I choose to.
I am working on a collection of my own texture photos, (rust, peeling paint, moss, tree bark...) which I can add to the software. How cool is that? The software can also be personalized with my choices in defaults, favorites, previews... If you are looking for a simple way to add texture layers to your photos, you really need to try this. The wonderful people at Totally Rad have given me a 15% discount code to share with you, just use ppsop when ordering.
I love the way textures can add interest to photos, giving them a different mood and feel. Here are some before and after images:
Happy Shooting!
Kathleen
Hi Kathleen,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for not only sharing your ideas and images but the methods by which you create them. I have already checked out the Totally Rad web site and I'll be experimenting with their software for sure. Your shot of the wheat against the wall reminds me of the type of textures you see in old painted houses on the city streets of Cuba and when I first saw that picture in flickr I wondered where you had shot it. Now I know that you didn't get a flight to Cuba! (there aren't many places where you can see the texture effect of aged paint like Cuban houses! LOL!).
These are very inspiring shots! I always find your work very elegant and moving and I'm always using your images as a reference point of what I would like to achieve. From the nature of your images and way you so generously share your techniques I believe that this strongly reflects your beautiful personality.
The 'fog' shots remind me of the English countryside in Autumn. Particularly with the leading lines of the dry-stone walls. Very beautiful images!
Thank you again for sharing!
Kind regards,
Onelia.
Onelia,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your very kind comments. :) I am looking forward to seeing some of your images with textures!
Best,
Kathleen
Thanks Kathleen, I used the discount for the lightroom totally rad.
ReplyDeleteCindy Garwood
Great, Cindy! Let me know if you need any help as you get started with textures.
ReplyDeleteKathleen
Thanks so much for sharing. I love Totally Rad and have recently gotten photoshop and am so excited to start playing. I love your plays with the textures, you've inspired em to pull out some of my scenery shots and play. THanks again, your pics are gorgeous! They would make awesome cards!
ReplyDeleteLovely... saw you on facebook. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThanks very much studt4blog and Jen!
ReplyDeleteKathleen
Your classes are amazing, your blog is inspiring, and you are always intriguing with your ideas, techniques and images. When I need inspiration and a 'push' to get out there, your photos always do the trick. Beautiful!! Thanks so much for your generosity in sharing with us. Luv ya!!
ReplyDeleteCheryl---
Thanks so much, Cheryl! :)
ReplyDeleteKathleen
Thanks a lot Kathleen.....I'm into flower stuff now. And your works really are the inspiration to me. Honestly, If I have to name a few, you are on the top. Thanks for sharing. Be blessed.
ReplyDeleteThanks very much, Bernhard!
ReplyDelete