I began this project by using the pen tool to create different shapes to create the outline of my dog Pau. I used a 13 pixel stroke on all shapes to allow them an outline. Ten shapes quickly turned to over 100, so early on I chose to group all of these shapes together to keep them organized.
Initially, I wanted to fill each shape in colors that related to the original photo. After realizing how long this took, I decided to just make the shapes first and worry about colors later. As I was creating the shapes, I focused on shadows on Pau first, and then the highlights.
After all the shapes came together, I decided to not create the project based on color, and focus more on the natural textures from the original photo. To make each texture look unique, I would select several shapes at once, click the original photo layer, copy, and then paste in place on a new layer. From there, I would add a filter onto them. I continued this process that way most shapes had a unique filter.
After all the shapes had their own filter, I decided to make Pau’s face the star of the show by clicking all the layers and making them a smart object. From there, I made his face large enough to take up most of the canvas.
C Ludwiczak Digital Imaging 