Calvinize: Signature Techniques of Photoshop Artist Calvin Hollywood

4+ hours of step-by-step video tutorials show you how to create Calvin Hollywood’s signature styles Calvin Hollywood Si...

Author: Calvin Hollywood

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4+ hours of step-by-step video tutorials show you how to create Calvin Hollywood’s signature styles Calvin Hollywood

Signature Techniques of Photoshop Artist Calvin Hollywood

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Calvin Hollywood

Signature Techniques of Photoshop Artist Calvin Hollywood

ii Calvinize: Signature Techniques of Photoshop Artist Calvin Hollywood Calvin Hollywood Peachpit Press 1249 Eighth Street Berkeley, CA 94710 510/524-2178 510/524-2221 (fax) Find us on the Web at: www.peachpit.com To report errors, please send a note to [email protected] Peachpit Press is a division of Pearson Education. English language edition published by Peachpit Press, a division of Pearson Education, Inc, Copyright © 2011. Copyright © 2010 by Pearson Education Deutschland GmbH. All rights reserved. First published in the German language under the title Calvinize by Addison-Wesley, an imprint of Pearson Education Deutschland GmhH, München. Video training and interface © 2011 video2brain. All rights reserved. Acquisitions Editor: Nikki Echler McDonald Production Editor: Cory Borman Translator: Almut Dworak Cover design: Marco Lindenbeck, webwo GmbH, [email protected]

iii Notice of Rights All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher. For information on getting permission for reprints and excerpts, contact [email protected]. Notice of Liability The information in this book is distributed on an “As Is” basis without warranty. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of the book, neither the author nor Peachpit shall have any liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by the instructions contained in this book or by the computer software and hardware products described in it. Trademarks Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Where those designations appear in this book, and Peachpit was aware of a trademark claim, the designations appear as requested by the owner of the trademark. All other product names and services identified throughout this book are used in editorial fashion only and for the benefit of such companies with no intention of infringement of the trademark. No such use, or the use of any trade name, is intended to convey endorsement or other affiliation with this book. ISBN 13: 978-0-321-77279-4 ISBN 10: 0-321-77279-2 987654321 Printed and bound in the United States of America

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Acknowledgements I owe thanks to many people. I would like to mention a few of them by name: Matthias Landsgesell, Schepi, Tino, Sven Doelle, Gerhard Koren, Peter Kessler, Kristine Kamm, Michael Müller, Martin Krolop (photographer of SWAT picture), Smokey Eyes, Katrin Eismann, Russell Brown, Olaf Giermann, Ralf Mack, Uli Staiger, Dajana Lüppker, Armin Böttigheimer, Marc Ludwig, and many others. And, of course, I wish to thank my family for supporting me.

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Introduction Hello, First of all, I would like to thank you for taking an interest in this photo collection. I hope you like my pictures. I would be very happy if this book finds a welcome home on your bookshelf. However, before you start looking through my pictures, I just want to say a few things. This photo collection contains more than 100 pictures, which have all been created during the last few years. I would like to emphasize that all of my pictures are always the result of a team effort. For this very reason, I wish to thank all of the models, assistants, and my partners who have actively contributed to the creation of these pictures. I want to give special thanks to my friend Matthias Landsgesell, who has been working with me and supporting me as a fellow photographer and lighting consultant for many years. I did not create this book to teach you how to use Photoshop; this book is merely a collection of my best work over the last few years. Nevertheless, I could not help but add my own thoughts and impressions throughout. I hope that this photo collection turns out to be a source of inspiration for you and I want you to know that your feedback is greatly appreciated. If you want to share your thoughts or opinions with me, just send me an email at [email protected]. Of course, you are also most welcome to ask me questions about the pictures as well. In this spirit... Enjoy! Calvin

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About Calvin Hollywood Many professional photo editors in Germany have spent years developing their reputation and rank. Most started with a classical education as a graphic designer, photographer, digital media designer, or repro specialist and worked their way up within a business or agency. For many aspiring photo editors, this still seems the only path to success. But there is an alternative approach. For just over four years, a name has been buzzing around the Photoshop community: Calvin Hollywood. This man belongs to a new league of movers and shakers within the Photoshop scene, a group of young artists who refuse to hide, who instead choose to impart their knowledge confidently and unconventionally. With his unique style, refreshingly uncomplicated manner, and an almost incredible mastery of Photoshop and its potential, Calvin Hollywood has risen quickly to the top and is now recognized as one of the leading photo editors in Europe. A self-taught photographer and photo editor, Calvin Hollywood has managed to achieve within just a few years what others would hardly dare dream to accomplish. Not only has Hollywood become one of the most sought-after Photoshop consultants in Germany and neighboring countries, but his individual style has become an inspiration and influence to an entire generation of Photoshop users. The unique “Calvinize” look is spreading like a wildfire through forums and Internet communities. In recent years, no one in Europe has been able to match this level of success. It is therefore hardly surprising that the press and companies specializing in digital image editing quickly became interested in this young and talented newcomer. Informal queries have now developed into firm connections and Calvin Hollywood has become a well-established brand name on the market. The digital artist from Heidelberg, Germany has already produced several video tutorials, published his works in specialist publications, and is holding more than 50 seminars a year from Europe to New York and even Dubai. In an amazingly short time, Hollywood has become one of the top-ranking Photoshop professionals in the world.

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It seems as if Hollywood’s days have more than just 24 hours, because the workaholic somehow also manages to maintain two of the biggest online forums on Photoshop and photography. Using Twitter, Xing, Facebook, and YouTube, as well as his many personal websites, Hollywood keeps his fans up to speed about all that’s going on and worth knowing about his projects. As if that was not enough, he also tries to personally reply to every email he receives. If he ever has spare time, you can be sure that the Adobe promoter, Wacom evangelist, and Photoshop beta tester is thinking carefully about the next steps of his planned career. Despite all of these activities and obligations, Hollywood still somehow manages to focus on what matters—turning his ideas into successful photo projects. Appreciation for his work has spread beyond Germany, earning Hollywood several international awards. In addition to awards won at the Trierenberg Super Circuit and the Sony World Photography Awards, he was honored with the Photoshop Guru Award at the 2009 Photoshop World conference in Boston. But if all of this information about Hollywood has led you to imagine an egotistical loner who is only interested in self-promotion and his own advancement, then you will be disappointed. Hollywood is both helpful and open, ready to answer every question—character traits that become quickly evident if you ever have the pleasure of attending one of his talks or workshops in person. There is no false secrecy or exaggerated self-presentation; instead, the emphasis is on imparting skills and techniques, which lead directly to extraordinary results. Hollywood’s background and his signature “Calvinize Entertainment factor” make his events a unique experience that will take you far beyond the limits of Photoshop. Find out for yourself! Enter the fascinating world of Calvin Hollywood and let his pictures inspire you! Armin Böttigheimer (www.colurzblog.de)


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CONTENTS 2 People 48 Artists 72 Conceptual Design 102 Emotion 122 Family & Friends


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Personal style When I started out in photography and photo editing, I was constantly trying to emulate the style of other great artists. Already, I was concentrating on a very specific goal and was doggedly pursuing this aim. Once I was happy with my results, I would move on to the next artist whose style I wanted to acquire. This approach helped me to feel constantly inspired and challenged, allowing me to joyfully develop my abilities. Over time, I began to combine these many different styles and my own personal style gradually emerged in my pictures. More and more, I began to edit following my instinct, less and less according to some, “do it like this” theory of other artists. In retrospect, and as far as my own pictures are concerned, I find that an artist’s unique touch and personal style usually emerges all by itself if you do not try to force it.


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Models A few years ago, when I first started working as a photographer, I struggled to find models who would voluntarily step in front of my camera. So, I started out by taking photographs of friends and family. After a certain practice period, the first inquiries of professional models started coming in. Today, I would definitely encourage you to hire professional models straight away. It makes an incredible difference whether you are photographing someone who is standing before the camera for the first time just to do you a favor, or whether you are working with an experienced pro who simply knows what to do in front of a camera. Especially if you are a beginner, working with professional models lets you calmly concentrate on the important thing—taking photos without being distracted. Today, I love taking photos of striking features and I often prefer male models. Why? Simply because my personal style really comes into its own with these models.


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Suitable outfit I am actually rather modest when it comes to choosing a model’s clothing. I am definitely not a typical fashion photographer, as I simply do not know enough about current fashion trends. Strictly speaking, I usually have very little influence in choosing the right outfit for a fashion shoot. But for my personal work, I mainly choose clothing with clear patterns and many details. I try to select the most suitable colors for the location, the picture’s message, and the lighting setup. In that respect, I am so extremely demanding that I frequently personally adapt the exact color tone of the clothing afterwards (mostly using Photoshop). In cases where I cannot get anywhere in choosing a suitable outfit, I usually let the model, the makeup artist, or stylist decide. So, if anyone should complain afterwards about the outfit that was chosen… .


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Makeup artist Why would I pay a makeup artist if I can just use Photoshop to add makeup afterwards? There are really some very good reasons to hire makeup artists. First, a makeup artist can apply makeup much better than I can. Second, she can contribute ideas during the photo shoot. She has an eye for even the smallest details, which I might easily overlook. A good makeup artist or stylist is therefore definitely recommended. What do I expect from a makeup artist? She should prepare for the photo shoot in advance and contribute her own ideas. It is also an advantage if she is open and uncomplicated herself, which allows her to communicate with the model more easily. And now the most important point: A good makeup artist should above all be quick and very flexible; she should be able to work sensibly and neatly even under time pressure.


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On location If you look at my pictures you will notice quickly that I am a big fan of flash photography. But if you now think that I use flash photography only in the studio, you are completely wrong. I love taking photos with portable flash units or live “on location” with different kinds of flash guns, irrespective of what kind of location it is. Using light from a flash expands your shooting possibilities, plus you save time by not having to add backgrounds later on during image editing. Apart from all that, it is simply incredible how amazing and fascinating any old corner of everyday life can suddenly appear if you use the right kind of studio lighting.


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Hardware equipment I have never been one to always have to have the newest and most advanced technical equipment. Unfortunately, for some projects good or even very good equipment is necessary. Therefore, it does make sense to work with a fast computer and use a professional graphics tablet. I use an iMac for working at home, a MacBook Pro for photo shoots and while out and about, and always a Wacom pen tablet. As far as photography is concerned, I use Hensel flash equipment and usually take my pictures with both Canon and Nikon cameras (no, I am not joking). I must, however, stress that it is always the photographer who is responsible for the picture and not the technology. It is not enough to just have the best equipment, you have to know how to use it with skill.


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Artists I love taking photos of other artists. My favorite artists are characters who live their passion, especially when I can make that passion a part of the picture. I’ve been lucky enough to point my camera at several artists and special characters, and these have always been my best photo shoots. If you happen to know such an artist yourself, why not just write to him? You can’t lose. The worst that can happen is that he turns you down. But once you have jumped those first hurdles and taken a few pictures of artists, success will follow quickly (provided you take good pictures, of course).


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Lighting I have to honestly and openly admit that I underestimated the importance of light for a very long time. Many people initially turn to photo editing to achieve the powerful effects and graphic impacts they desire. But since I started working together with my fellow photographer Matthias “Lightguide” Landsgesell, I have come to realize that the key to many photo effects and looks can be found simply and solely in using the appropriate lighting. For most of my pictures, I use three or more external flashes in order to reach the desired result. Every single flash is positioned precisely; absolutely nothing is left to coincidence. Once more, thorough preparation and advance planning are essential.


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Is that photography? “But surely that no longer has anything to do with photography!” Sadly, I keep hearing people exclaim such words when looking at my pictures. Many of my pictures really do seem artificial and appear almost painted. Many viewers, therefore, no longer see a connection to the original photograph. But as long as I am taking photos, and to that purpose I am usually using elaborate lighting techniques, my works will always have something to do with photography. Even if I should one day reach the point where my pictures really no longer have anything to do with conventional photography, I would still not really care. I do not primarily create photographs; I create pictures. After taking the photo, I edit it in Photoshop. Before then, my main concern is taking the photo. That is photography!


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CONCEPTUAl DESIGN


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Photo ideas In my opinion, many people deprive themselves of the chance to be creative by limiting themselves and thinking: “Oh, this photo idea has been done before.” So what if it has? It is really not that important. Do not be afraid to take up the photo ideas of others and transform them yourself. Play around with the idea, connect it to your own personal concepts, and turn it into something new. I like exploring the various forums, photo communities, and all those other media in search of inspiration and to find new ideas for future pictures. Bear in mind that even if you are convinced that you have come up with a completely new photo idea, there is almost certainly someone who had that idea before you.


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Helpfulness *Irony mode on.* Oh, how I love it when photographers or photo editors desperately try to keep their techniques and methods a secret. *Irony mode off.* If you are really good at something, then you need not fear being copied. Personally, I have learned in recent years that the more you are willing to give, the more you get back in return. And let’s be completely honest—isn’t everyone glad and grateful to receive help and support when they are starting? Sadly, there are far too many photographers who try to go it alone and who seem to never have heard of helping others.


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Starting point (the photo) Many people think that my pictures are created mainly using Photoshop. That is definitely a great mistake. If you do not have the right starting material, you will not get far with Photoshop. Unless, of course, you are a talented painter (which I am not). The starting point, or base, of my work is the photograph. While I am taking a photo, I always try to stay as true as possible to my original photo idea. You should always try to get as much work as possible done with the photo itself. Of course, you may not always have a suitable location, first-class makeup, or perfect lighting conditions on every shoot. This is where digital post-processing using Photoshop becomes important. Sometimes, it is more important, sometimes less. (But usually it does play a significant role.)


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Teamwork I made the biggest progress in my development as a photographer when I began working with others during my photo shoots. When I first started out, I was working solely with my current fellow photographer, who was mainly responsible for setting up the lighting for my shoots. Over time, I began working with additional assistants who had different responsibilities on the set. And, of course, I also cooperated with stylists and makeup artists. This division of responsibilities relieves me of much of the work I would otherwise have to do myself, allowing me to concentrate on the essential—the finished picture. I recommend looking for a partner or assistants who can support you during your project or photo shoot. It is definitely worth it!


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Planning You could say that I am a real planner. I tend to be less spontaneous and I’m very reluctant to leave things to chance. As soon as several people are working together on a set, the responsibilities have to be clearly assigned. Advance planning and discussions make things a lot easier when it comes to the day of the actual photo shoot. When I am planning something, I always attempt to anticipate and take into consideration any possible factors that might negatively affect the photo shoot. I then try to work out which solutions would be appropriate to remedy these situations. Because of this planning, I start every shoot secure in the knowledge that I’ll be prepared should anything unforeseen happen.


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EMOTION


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Basics Even the most advanced techniques are carried out with the simplest basic tools. Unfortunately, people often neglect to learn the basics. The widespread use of various techniques in miscellaneous Internet forums to achieve very specific effects and looks has become far more popular. First and foremost, you need to have a solid understanding of Photoshop and photography. Camera, flash, and Photoshop are only the tools. You need to learn how to use them appropriately. You need to know how they work, what exactly they do, and what effects you can create with them. Only then will you be able to use these tools efficiently and purposefully, and only then will they help you achieve your desired results.


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Photoshop In my daily life as a digital photo artist I would never ever want to do without Photoshop again. For my pictures, I definitely place the greatest emphasis on post-editing with Photoshop. I do, however, try to get most of the work done photographically first. Photoshop only enters into the equation at the stage where I cannot get any further with pure photography alone. Because I know Photoshop well and am familiar with how it works and how to use it effectively, Photoshop always opens many more doors for my work than I will probably ever be able to enter.


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Plug-ins Many people dismiss plug-ins and add-on modules in image editing. For a long time, I was one of those people who preferred editing pictures in the conventional way with Photoshop. But what is Photoshop, after all? A software program that enables various image editing possibilities. If you take, for example, Nik Software plug-ins or others, you will quickly realize that the scope of these plug-ins is already practically comparable to that of an entire image editing program. Plug-ins allow you to create various effects and special looks with just a few clicks, and they enable you to combine these effects easily. Personally, I would not want to do without plug-ins in my workflow; I even have certain favorites that I use to give my pictures that finishing touch.


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FAMIlY & FRIENDS


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Time management One personal quality that I really do like to gloat about is my natural instinct for managing my time well. The ability to accurately judge how long a task will take to complete is an incredible advantage in this business. Even more advantageous is being able to keep to the given time frame for a project. When you know how to manage your time wisely and stay on deadline, planning becomes lots of fun and enables you to carry out many things in parallel. But, careful ... it can be dangerous if people with excellent time management skills get together with people who have never even heard of time management!


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Criticism Most people only like to hear criticism if it is positive criticism. Does negative criticism mean that the pictures I create are, in fact, bad? NO! Who decides if a picture is good or bad? What exactly do I connect this “good” or “bad” to? Today, criticism is only an expression of personal preference and taste, and as you all know, it is very easy to argue about taste. Nevertheless, or perhaps because of this, you should listen to any criticism (regardless of whether it comes from a beginner or a pro). Had I taken to heart every criticism and acted accordingly, then I would never have become as successful as I am today. But if I had never accepted any criticism, I would not be successful today either. Listen to the criticism and then decide for yourself how much of it you want to take on board and how you want to put the criticism into practice. But bear in mind also that if you criticize the work of others, you should always phrase your criticism so that it is helpful and benevolent, not insulting or condescending.


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WHERE ARE THE LESSON FILES? Calvinize: Signature Techniques of Photoshop Artist Calvin Hollywood The print version of this title comes with a disc of lesson files. As an eBook reader, you have access to these files by following the steps below: 1. On your PC or Mac, open a web browser and go to this URL: http://www.peachpit.com/ebookfiles/0321772792 2. Download the ZIP file (or files) from the web site to your hard drive. 3. Unzip the files and follow the directions for use in the Read Me included in the download. Please note that many of our lesson materials can be very large, especially image and video files. You will be able to see the size of any file for download once you reach the URL listed above. If you are unable to locate the files for this title by following the steps above, please email [email protected] and supply the URL from step one. Our customer service representatives will assist you as soon as possible. Legal Notice: Peachpit Press makes no warranty or representation, either express or implied, with respect to this software, its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose. In no event will Peachpit Press, its distributors, or dealers be liable for direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages arising out of the use or inability to use the software. The exclusion of implied warranties is not permitted in some states. Therefore, the above exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty provides you with specific legal rights. There may be other rights that you may have that vary from state to state. The software and media files are copyrighted by the authors and Peachpit Press. You have the non-exclusive right to use these programs and files. You may use them on one computer at a time. You may not distribute the URL to third parties or redistribute the files over a network. You may transfer the files onto a single hard disk so long as you can prove ownership of this eBook. You may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the software or media files. You may not modify or translate the software or media, or distribute copies of the software or media without the written consent of Peachpit Press.


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