Working With Layers
The key to getting a beam of Light to look realistic is using multiple layers while creating it. A beam of light will be most intense in the center of the beam, so by making three different Curves layers that get smaller and smaller it gives the light a sense of Depth. It’s also important to apply a Gaussian Blur to the Layer Masks so the light doesn’t look unreasonably hard edged.
Adding Fog
The second part to making the beam of Light believable is adding fog to the image. The only way a beam of Light can really be visible is if there are many small particles in the air for it to reflect off of. By using a combination of Adjustment Layers and Filter > Clouds, we can create a Texture around the Light that gives the illusion of a foggy day.
Photo by Vincent Tullo
Make sure to become part of the Phlearn Family on Facebook, conversate with us on Twitter, and #hashtag your Phlearn Inspirations on Instagram. We want to know what the Phlearn community social chatter is about, and who is sharing it. You all keep us motivated to do our best.
