Archive for the ‘Fun with Graphics’ Category

Posted on June 28, 2008 - by CDS

3D Text

In my humble opinion, one of the best 3d text creation applications is XARA 3d6, http://www.xara.com/us/. 3d6 basically eliminates timely rendering, and doesn’t take up nearly as much comp resources that comprehensive 3d apps do. This is not a full 3d suite, but it does come with dozens of shapes, objects, and 3d methods. Did I mention how easy it is to work with. When used in conjunction with photoshop, illustrator, etc., the possibilities are endless. Here’s a sample of one of our promotional postcards, front and back. This was created using XARA 3d6 for the CDS text, illustrator for for the illustrations, and photoshop for the effects.

Posted on May 10, 2008 - by CDS

Color FX

Some people are great photographers, with very expensive lenses and filter, etc. Such photographers rarely need to touch up their work. Others are  less adept in the field, and more able behind the computer. I think I would fall into the latter category. I love photography, and occassionally I will take a photo that needs not a drop of photoshop manipulation. But that’s is rare. I usually take a descent photo, and enhance it in Photoshop. Not only do I get a fantastic result, I always learn a thing or two new as I work. This method works fine for me and lots of others. My favorite tools to use for photo enhancement are NIC Color Efex filters. Overall I use the “Sunshine” filter the most to enhance colors and to liven up nature photos shot on dreary days. I also very much enjoy the “Black & White”, “Old Photos”, and “Colorize” photos. Have you ever wished there was a one click filter to change a color without losing shadow and depth? The “Colorize” filter is about as close as it gets. No playing around with channels, hue/saturation, color mixer, selected color, etc. You just pick the color, saturation strength, and colorize method. It’s awesome!

To create this effect, I used “Monday Morning” filter, “Midnight Green”, and “Sunshine” filters from NIC Color FX. This is a deliberate manipulation effect, but NIC filters are great for color enhancements as well.

This is the original, taken many, many years ago at Montana de Oro

This photo is part of a 360 degree virtual tour photograph. This is the final effect of a mix of “Sunshine”, “Brilliance/Warmth” filters, and Photoshop “Curves”. The effect is dramatic due to the overhead rain clouds.

This photo was taken in the middle of winter. We tried to make out before dark, but the sun had just gone down and it started to sprinkle when we finally made it. The photo came out dark, faded, and dreary.

Posted on May 10, 2008 - by CDS

Mom x Bruce Willis

 

This is my Mom merged with Bruce Willis.

Posted on May 10, 2008 - by CDS

Cow Maps

Just  little fun I was having…