Mask edits.

Working with layer masks means I’m never deleting. Layer masks and smart objects allow me to make dramatic changes without destroying the original image.

Build libraries.

There’s a recurring theme of flowers, skulls, and nature throughout my composites. I collect images, remove their backgrounds, and add them to libraries. I can create faster by saving once and reusing creative elements in new ways.

Follow artists.

I’m inspired by other artists — Magdiel Lopez and Luke Choice to name two. I’ve learned a lot trying to reproduce the work of an artist I admire. It’s a great way to learn styles that appeal to you. Just be sure to give credit where it’s due.

Find inspiration.

Much of my work is inspired by other images. Rijksmuseum, Smithsonian, NASA, and other sites provide public domain images* and encourage artists to use them in new ways.

Reimagine.

Combine images in new ways. I like to blend themes: reality and fantasy, birth and death, yin and yang, and composites are a great outlet to explore that. Place ordinary elements into scenes with an element of the supernatural.