Enhance your visual style with textures

Jon Adams demonstrates how to add an artistic edge to your shots by quickly applying and blending texture layers in Photoshop CC

- Jon Adams

Textures have long been in the creative arsenal of photographers seeking to add an extra veneer of artistry. Whether you 'sandwich' a negative with a texture screen in a traditional darkroom, or produce a print on a textured substrate like rough canvas, the option to combine a picture with something that changes its appearance is as old as photography itself. The digital form of this approach gives an unparalleled level of control; although there are options under Photoshop's Filter menu, the fun really starts when you combine a regular photo with one or more shots taken of a textured surface.

In this issue's download (see web link bottom left) there are 31 different textures to try out. These can be used on their own or in combination to create a huge array of arty effects from a subtle wash to a pronounced degradation. The joy is in the exploration, but this tutorial covers the basics you'll need to know to take your images in a new direction. 

THE MISSION

Create arty effects by combining your photos with one or more shots of a textured surface

Time needed

20 minutes

Skill level

Beginner

Kit needed

Photoshop CC

STEP BY STEP