Step Eight: Adding a background

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This is always a difficult step because I can never decide what kind

of background I want, i.e. a realistic-type background or a more abstract, pattern-type background, so I usually end up experimenting for a while. In this case, though, I decide that I want a simple but realistic style of background.

The first step is to give the background a solid color. (Always use a separate layer for the background so that you can change it later.)

Then I add a slight sandstone texture to the background to make it look like a wall. Then I use the Marquee to select a rectangle at the bottom. I change the color of it slightly, then I use the Craquelure filter to give it a different texture.

Next I create a shadow on the wall by duplicating the donkey layer, darkening it, and then decreasing the opacity. Then I use the Move tool to move it into position.

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