Project One - Photoshop Editorial

I began the design process by assembling multiple photographic elements using Photoshop’s layer-based system. Each visual component, including the foreground subject, snowy background, vehicles, thermometer, and text, was placed on its own layer. To separate the subject from her original background, I used selection tools combined with layer masks, which allowed me to refine edges and preserve detail. I removed the bottom part of the woman's photo, which wasn't caught in the remove background tool, to help the bottom of her coat blend into the scene more.

To enhance the winter atmosphere, I incorporated falling snow using a transparent background snow overlay layer. These elements were blended using reduced opacity and appropriate blending modes, as well as the blending techniques taught to us in the celebrity Photoshop assignment. I made sure this was the top layer, that way all of the effects and visuals would stay cohesive and make it actually look like snow was falling. Using masking layers, I deleted the bottom half of the vehicle's photograph to let the snow transparent image have the foreground, while still adjusting the opacity on the vehicle image to make it look like it was farther away, or less distracting.

Color consistency across the image was achieved through adjustment layers, including Curves and Color Balance. These tools allowed me to unify the cool color temperature and muted tones, reinforcing the cold environment and emotional weight of the scene. The thermometer element was scaled and positioned intentionally to act as a visual indicator of temperature while maintaining balance.

Finally, I added typography using editorial design principles. Font choice, placement, and hierarchy were carefully considered to ensure readability and credibility without distracting from the imagery.