Adding Drama, Grit and Atmosphere to a Warrior Photo

In this tutorial, I'll show you how to transform an image of a spear-wielding Spartan by using a variety of Photoshop techniques.

First, I'll replace the background turning the black studio environment into a moody sky. Then I'll alter the color palette using a powerful gradient mapping technique. Then a few Curves Adjustment Layers will be added to allow for a highly adaptable dodging and burning method. Finally, lens flare and noise will be worked in to complete the image. Let's get started!

Watch the Full Tutorial

Any questions about these techniques or how you might apply them? Drop me comment below!