Learn how to create an optical illusion using a portrait and a pattern.
Start from scratch, or download practice files [https://adobe.ly/2uYIGzE] for a head start. Steps below.
Prep your project
1. Open op-art.psd.
a. Open the Libraries panel (Window – Libraries), search Adobe Stock for an op art image (e.g., “op art whirlpool”). Or, use “whirlpool.ai” from our practice files (File – Open – whirlpool.ai, click OK, then drag to your Libraries panel).
Tip: Click the down arrow next to “Results from Adobe Stock” and check Vectors to show vector graphics.
2. Hover over the image you’d like to use and click the shopping cart icon to license it.
Optional: You can also click the cloud icon to preview with a watermark to try the image before you buy it.
Create an op art effect
1. Drag the op art image from Libraries on to the canvas, press Return (or Enter) to place the image.
Tip: If you create your own file, delete the background layer.
2. With the whirlpool layer selected, choose ‘Screen’ blend mode.
3. Nudge the portrait layer into position as desired.
Tip: Use the Selection tool and Shift + Command (or Ctrl) + arrow keys.
4. Select the whirlpool layer, choose Select – All from the menu, then Edit – Copy.
5. Click the eye icon to hide the whirlpool layer.
6. Click the portrait layer, then choose Add layer mask. Option + click on the mask (white square) on the portrait layer, then choose Edit – Paste to display the whirlpool pattern in the layer mask.
7. Click the eye icon on the portrait layer to see it through the pattern mask.
8. Choose Image – Adjustment – Invert from the menu to invert the mask thumbnail.
9. Drag the portrait layer on to the New Layer icon to duplicate the layer.
Tip: Make sure the portrait copy layer is below the original portrait layer.
10. Click the layer mask on the portrait copy and drag it to the trash can. Click “Delete” (not “Apply”) from the dialog that asks if you’d like to apply the mask before removing.
11. On the portrait copy layer, choose Edit – Transform – Flip Horizontal so the portrait copy appears flipped in alternating bands behind the original portrait layer.
12. Nudge the portrait copy into position until you like the composition.
13. Select the Crop tool, click and drag to define the crop area, press Return (or Enter) to execute the crop.
That’s it!
To learn, more visit our Photoshop Tutorials page: https://adobe.ly/2wY30CX
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