In this tutorial, you will learn how to combine different elements into a single image to create the illusion that all those elements are part of the same scene. This is known as compositing. Here’s how to use Lumiar's Add New Image Layer, the Transform Tool and a Layer Blending Mode to quickly create a beautiful composite. (There is even a little bonus at the end!
Create a beautiful composite
Step 1: Create an Image Layer — Start with the main image open in Luminar. Add a New Image Layer by clicking the + button at the top of the Layers controls.
Browse your computer for the second image and click the Open button. Chances are, this element isn’t the same size as the main image. Don’t worry, the next step will fix this.
Step 2: Transform (resize) the image — Click the Tools button on the Top Toolbar and select Free Transform. Click a handle, resize the image and move it into place. Click the Done button to return to the main window.
Step 3: Changing the Layer Blend Mode - Select Multiple from the Layer Blending mode drop-down list. Notice the white background from the Hummingbird that was laying on top of the plant is now gone.
Added Bonus
Here’s a neat little bonus to help complete the composite.
Step 1: At the top of the Filters, section click the + button and select Add an Adjustment Layer. We can now make a global change that will affect both images.
Step 2: Select the Accent AI filter from the Filters Catalog. Increase Boost to 50. The Accent AI Filter automatically analyzes the image and instantly corrects it to produce naturally beautiful results with one simple slider
Step 3: Add a little detail and clarity by selecting the Structure filter from the Filters Catalog. Increase Amount to 52. The Structure filter can produce the classic HDR effect with great detail or a smoother picture with less detail. This is the main tool to increase contrast and more details in an image.
Final Results
How simple was that! By following along with a few simple steps, we were able to combine two images to produce a beautiful composite and make it look even better by adding a couple of Luminar’s Essential filters.
Final Image. (Original images by © Scott Bourne)
