Create Stunning 360° Digital Art with Photoshop
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Downloading the Equi-Rectangular Projection GRID
- Resizing the Grid in Photoshop
- Sketching out the 3D Composition
- Painting Inside the 3D Box
- Adding Layers and Objects
- Creating the Panorama in Corel Painter
- Previewing and Flattening the Image in Photoshop
- Final Touches and Corrections
- Exporting and Viewing the 3D Panorama
Introduction
Welcome to this tutorial on how to create a 360-degree panoramic painting using Photoshop CC 2018 and your preferred digital painting application. In this video, digital artist Aaron Rutten will guide you through the process of turning your digital painting into an immersive three-dimensional world that you can explore. So let's get started!
Downloading the Equi-Rectangular Projection Grid
To begin, you will need to download an equi-rectangular projection grid. This grid will serve as the foundation for creating your 360-degree panorama. You can find free options by searching on Google Image Search. Select a grid that suits your preferences, either with or without vanishing points.
Resizing the Grid in Photoshop
Once you have downloaded the grid, open it in Photoshop. Next, go to Image > Image Size and resize the image to a width of 2560 by 1280 pixels. Ensure that you do not distort the proportions of the grid. Also, remember to save the file in PSD format and assign the Adobe RGB color profile to expand the available color range.
Sketching out the 3D Composition
With the resized grid, you can now start sketching out your 3D composition. Using the 3D menu in Photoshop, choose "Spherical Panorama" and then "New Panorama Layer from Selected Layers." This will allow the curved grid to straighten out, giving you a 3D canvas to work with. Utilize the Move tool to navigate within the canvas and start sketching with the Brush tool in real time. You can switch back and forth between tools to refine your sketch.
Painting Inside the 3D Box
Once you have the sketch in place, it's time to paint inside the 3D box. Imagine that you are in a 3D virtual environment and rotate around to paint from different perspectives. Use the grid lines as guides to determine the placement of objects and ensure they follow the equirectangular perspective. Remember that objects above the horizon line should be higher and those below should be lower.
Adding Layers and Objects
To add depth and detail to your panorama, create individual layers for each object or element. Consider separating the sky, the ground, trees, clouds, and other elements onto different layers. This will make it easier to manipulate and adjust each component independently. Use the appropriate brushes and techniques to bring your vision to life.
Creating the Panorama in Corel Painter
Once you are satisfied with your painting in Photoshop, it's time to bring it into your preferred digital painting application. Save the file as a PNG and import it into Corel Painter or any other application of your choice. This will allow you to fine-tune your painting and add more intricate details, textures, and effects.
Previewing and Flattening the Image in Photoshop
After making further adjustments and improvements in your painting application, save your progress and flatten the layers. This will create a single-layered image that can be easily previewed in Photoshop. Reduce the Field of View to one and use the Move tool to navigate through the 3D space and ensure all elements look cohesive and seamless.
Final Touches and Corrections
Carefully examine the panorama in Photoshop and make any final touches or corrections. Look out for any discrepancies, seams, or distorted areas that need refining. Use tools like the Blur tool, Mixer Brush, and Smudge tool to blend, smoothen, and correct any imperfections. Pay attention to details such as shadows, highlights, perspective, and color consistency for a polished final result.
Exporting and Viewing the 3D Panorama
Once you are satisfied with your 3D panorama, you can export it as a JPEG or another suitable format. This exported file can then be uploaded to platforms like Facebook, where it can be viewed as an interactive 360-degree panorama. You can also explore the panorama using VR headsets or smartphones that support this feature, providing a truly immersive experience.
Now that we have covered the process step by step, let's dive into the article and explore each topic in more Detail.
Article: How to Create a 360-Degree Panoramic Painting Using Photoshop
Introduction:
Creating a 360-degree panoramic painting is a unique way to transform your digital artwork into an immersive three-dimensional experience. With the help of Photoshop CC 2018 and your preferred digital painting application, you can easily bring your creations to life. In this tutorial, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating a stunning 360-degree panorama.
Downloading the Equi-Rectangular Projection Grid
To begin, You will need an equi-rectangular projection grid. This grid serves as the foundation for your 360-degree painting. You can find free options by searching on Google Image Search. Choose a grid that suits your preferences, whether it includes vanishing points or not. Once downloaded, open the grid in Photoshop.
Resizing the Grid in Photoshop
After opening the grid in Photoshop, go to Image > Image Size. Resize the grid to a width of 2560 by 1280 pixels, ensuring the proportions remain intact. This step allows you to add more detail and resolution to your painting. Zoom out slightly and save the grid as a PSD file. Take this opportunity to assign the Adobe RGB color profile for expanded color range.
Sketching out the 3D Composition
With the resized grid, it's time to sketch out your 3D composition. Utilizing the 3D menu in Photoshop, select "Spherical Panorama" and "New Panorama Layer from Selected Layers." This straightens out the curved grid, providing a 3D canvas to work with. Use the Move tool to navigate within the canvas and switch to the Brush tool to sketch in real time. As you sketch, keep in mind the equirectangular perspective and the placement of objects above and below the horizon line.
Painting Inside the 3D Box
Now comes the fun part—painting inside the 3D box. Imagine yourself in a 3D virtual environment, rotating around and painting from different perspectives. Switch between the Move tool and Brush tool to create depth and details. Remember that objects above the horizon line should be higher, while those below should be lower. Consider using perspective techniques to create a Sense of distance and Scale.
Adding Layers and Objects
To enhance the depth and complexity of your panorama, create individual layers for different elements. Separate the sky, ground, trees, clouds, and other objects onto their respective layers. This layer organization allows for easier manipulation and adjustments. Use suitable brushes and techniques to add detail and bring your panorama to life. Experiment with different textures, colors, and lighting effects to create a visually captivating scene.
Creating the Panorama in Corel Painter
Once you are satisfied with your painting in Photoshop, export it as a PNG file and import it into your digital painting application of choice, such as Corel Painter. This step allows you to further refine your painting, add more intricate details, textures, and effects. Take AdVantage of the tools and features available in the application to unleash your creativity and make your panorama truly unique.
Previewing and Flattening the Image in Photoshop
After making additional adjustments in your painting application, save your progress and flatten the layers. This creates a single-layered image that can be easily previewed in Photoshop. Reduce the Field of View to one and use the Move tool to navigate through the 3D space within your panorama. Ensure all elements seamlessly Blend together and no visual discrepancies are present.
Final Touches and Corrections
Now is the time to meticulously review your panorama in Photoshop and make any final touches or corrections. Look out for seams, distorted areas, or any other imperfections that need refining. Use appropriate tools like the Blur tool, Mixer Brush, and Smudge tool to blend, smoothen, and correct any anomalies. Pay close Attention to details such as shadows, highlights, perspective, and color consistency to ensure a polished final result.
Exporting and Viewing the 3D Panorama
With your 360-degree panorama complete, it's time to export it and share it with the world. Save your final artwork as a high-quality JPEG or the appropriate format for your preferred platform. Upload your panorama to platforms like Facebook, where it can be viewed as an interactive 360-degree painting. Additionally, if you have access to VR headsets or smartphones with 360-degree viewing capabilities, your audience can immerse themselves in your artwork for a truly captivating experience.
Congratulations! You have successfully transformed your digital painting into an engaging 360-degree panoramic masterpiece. Experiment with different techniques, subjects, and styles to create a collection of unique panoramas that showcase your artistic talents. Now, go ahead and create your very own stunning 360-degree panoramic paintings using Photoshop and your preferred digital painting application. The possibilities are endless!
Highlights:
- Transform your digital paintings into immersive 360-degree panoramas
- Utilize Photoshop CC 2018 and your preferred digital painting application
- Download an equi-rectangular projection grid as the foundation
- Resize the grid in Photoshop for enhanced resolution and detail
- Sketch out the 3D composition using the Spherical Panorama feature in Photoshop
- Paint inside the 3D box, considering the equirectangular perspective and placement of objects
- Add layers for individual elements and objects to create depth and complexity
- Further refine and enhance your panorama in Corel Painter or similar application
- Preview and flatten the image in Photoshop to ensure visual cohesiveness
- Make final touches and corrections to perfect your 3D panorama
- Export and share your 360-degree panorama on platforms like Facebook
- View and explore your panorama using VR headsets or smartphones for an immersive experience
FAQ:
Q: Can I create a 360-degree panoramic painting using any version of Photoshop?
A: Yes, you can create a 360-degree panoramic painting using different versions of Photoshop, but this tutorial specifically focuses on Photoshop CC 2018.
Q: Do I need advanced painting skills to create a 360-degree panorama?
A: While some painting skills can help enhance your panorama, this tutorial provides step-by-step instructions that are accessible to both beginners and experienced artists.
Q: Can I use a different digital painting application instead of Corel Painter?
A: Yes, you can use any digital painting application of your choice. The process remains the same, regardless of the specific application.
Q: Is it necessary to have a VR headset or a smartphone to view the panorama?
A: No, it is not necessary to have a VR headset or smartphone to view the panorama. Platforms like Facebook support 360-degree panoramas, allowing users to explore them using their desktop or mobile devices.
Q: Can I upload my 360-degree panorama to other platforms besides Facebook?
A: Yes, there are various platforms that support 360-degree panoramas, such as YouTube, Vimeo, and dedicated VR websites. Explore different options to share your artwork with a wider audience.
Q: What are some tips for capturing references to use in my 360-degree panoramas?
A: To capture references for your panoramas, you can explore outdoor locations that offer a wide view. Take high-resolution photographs or use a 360-degree camera to capture the entire scene. You can also use online resources for reference images, such as stock photo websites or image repositories.