How to Create Realistic Shadows for Composites
Realistic shadows are an essential component of a realistic composite. Join Bret Malley to learn how to create custom shadows in a variety of lighting situations from diffused overcast light to hard direct light. In this class Bret demonstrates tips and techniques for creating soft shadows, hard shadows, custom shadows with the Pen Tool, shadows on natural terrain, and finishing touches like realistic reflections to tie it all together. Nothing can ruin a composite faster than a poorly crafted shadow, so it is critical to get them right.
Release Date: 2018-05-16
Lessons
Introduction
Join Bret as he introduces the class and discusses what will be covered in the lessons that follow. He then jumps into some examples of what is to come.
Duration: 2 mins 27 seconds
Soft Shadows: Part 1
Soft shadows can be really fun to paint in, but the first thing you need to do is analyze the scene.
Duration: 12 mins 13 seconds
Soft Shadows: Part 2
Building your shadow sandwich you continue to make your shadow look more believable.
Duration: 8 mins 43 seconds
Hard Shadows: Part 1
Having more direct light you see much darker shadows.
Duration: 12 mins 14 seconds
Hard Shadows: Part 2
Building on the previous lesson, Bret continues to make the shadows look more realistic.
Duration: 13 mins 23 seconds
Pen Tool Shadows
Using the Pen Tool, you can create custom shadows in all kinds of shapes.
Duration: 6 mins 49 seconds
Reflections
Sometimes a little reflection is needed to help make the composite look realistic.
Duration: 15 mins 31 seconds
Natural Terrain
Using basic selection tools you can create custom shadows that match the surrounding terrain.
Duration: 13 mins 23 seconds
Conclusion
Join Bret as he wraps up the class with some closing thoughts.
Duration: 1 mins 18 seconds