erik_p1

This is in Photoshop Elements 2, but should be similar in all programs.

Mask plane and foreground. Apply Gausian blur filter, I think I used like 2.1 pixels. Mask plane and back ground. Apply less guasian blur filter to the foreground grass - I think I used 1.3 or 1.5 pixels. Use the blur tool at 25-35% strength to soften the blur edge in the foreground.

This takes about 5 minutes for the rough job I did in the method example photo attached to this post. If you spend about 15 minutes being a bit more careful in masking and softening the edges of the blur/changing the blur strength you can make it much better.

Good luck.

I think the comment about depth of field is right on. I attached an example with some blur in the background and foreground, and applied some omni light to darken the edges/vignette a bit. Maybe lost too much detail in the plane, but think that is the right direction.

I like you portfolio.

I like this.

But maybe try a different opponent .. Maybe the black queen, as the king can not kill the king. May be more interesting story as well.

What is the yellow in the beheaded king?

This one is much longer exposure - 30 secs vs about 2 on the other.

The long exposure seems to really smooth out the river.

Gotta love the D-reb.

I just don't see this as that interesting. The guy is dark and indistinct. What is he pushing? Can't tell. The light on the fire escapes is nice but then that doesn't appear to be the subject.

I certainly am no expert, but I just don't understand all the gushing praise for this one.

Thanks for the comments. Yes, I need different shooting locations. I have been taking this scene from my balcony. However, this one was actually taken through my living room window as it was only 2 degress outside at the time and I didn't want to go out at all. When I saw the light I couldn't resist taking the shots even though there would be more interesting compositions if I were to go walk around the streets.

Thanks again.

Erik