November Entry: Pocketwatch

[Darken]

- Did you intentionally left the original background ? If yes, keep it that way but I wonder if another background wouldn't fit better (maybe a simple black bg, or another picture that would emphasize the steampunk look of the whole thing)...

The background was semi-intentional... I'm worried a background would remove the focus from the subject of the image though: the map. I'll experiment though... maybe something basic like a coridor with copper piping.

- I think the hands themselves could use a bit more substance. Maybe a "Bevel and Emboss" layer style if you are using PhotoShop... I think it would really help for the realism.

Ah, good thinking, I'll add that in. Still new to the whole Photoshop world, especially since I usually do my stuff by hand. I know what I want to do to the image, i just don't always know how.

Brilliant...maybe an animated gif?

The problem with a gif is the size of the image... I'm also not sure of the difficulty involved. But once I finish the look, I'll see what animating would entail.

[Ascension]

This is another super cool idea...lovin it. I would add a background for the watch face sort of like the Ystraad map but with a brushed metal texture...like a bronze. Then put in a drop shadow of the planets and hands to make them stand up from the face. Lookin sweet so far.

[Korrigan]

The background was semi-intentional... I'm worried a background would remove the focus from the subject of the image though: the map. I'll experiment though... maybe something basic like a coridor with copper piping.

I'd say use the graphic basics : use color and/or saturation contrast and direction to put the focus where you want it to be. e.g. if you use a black and white background, your watch will naturally be the main element.

Ah, good thinking, I'll add that in. Still new to the whole Photoshop world, especially since I usually do my stuff by hand. I know what I want to do to the image, i just don't always know how.

Lots of tutorials here and anywhere on the web. If you need some help with a specific question, I guess me and some other can help (I'm not that good at mapping but I definitely can use Photoshop )

[Darken]

I'm trying to learn some basics for 3D studio max in time to try making this in 3D, but I likely won't finish (again ).

maybe I'll be ready by next month?