Harmona of the Twin Kingdoms

[vman3force]

The only problem that I have is that these elements look like flat paper cut-outs with a drop shadow. I can see the look you were going for but I think you only got halfway there. I realize that the elements could best be done in some 3d modeling program and that not everyone can afford that, like myself. Overall, the image is more about the decorations and the map is an afterthought.

Well, this is my first ever attempt at photoshop, with no previous experience to speak of. yeah, i realize that it looks somewhat cutout like; that is mostly because i was teaching myself as i went along. ultimately this was just an experiment to see if i could use the media; i was copying a map id already made with watercolor.

However, i agree, the ultimate effect leaves something to be desired. i promise that before i submit my next map, ill have read up on how to mesh photographs to achieve a more realistic effect.

[Ascension]

It's pretty nice for a first go, so please take my words with a grain of salt Don't mean to discourage you at all but rather hope to help...somehow...if I can. Maybe one of the fine fellas here can rough up some simple objects in order to lay down a good shadow. I'll see what I can do in SketchUp and post it up.

edit: apparently, my SU-fu is fading as I can't even draw some basic curves or use the follow-me tool. Man I have to brush up on that, sorry.