ASSIGNMENT - 02
Edit and manipulate images (M07)
GRAPHIC DESIGNER (NVQ Level 4)
Able to Crop, edit and enhance images and Apply masks to images
Objective
This Practical Sheet will test your ability to:
● Demonstrate proficiency in changing and manipulating backgrounds, and performing color
grading on an image to create a cohesive and visually appealing composition.
Practical Sheet Steps
Step 1 - Select Source Images and Define Concept
● Choose a subject image (e.g., a person, an object) with a clearly defined foreground that needs to be
extracted.
● Select a new background image that you will use to replace the original.
● Briefly define a conceptual idea for the final composition, considering how the subject and new
background will interact.
Step 2 - Isolate the Subject using Masking Techniques
● Open both the subject image and the new background image in your chosen image editing software
(e.g., Adobe Photoshop, GIMP).
● On the subject image, use selection tools (e.g., Quick Selection Tool, Magic Wand Tool, Pen Tool,
Select Subject, Object Selection Tool) to accurately select the foreground subject.
● Once selected, create a layer mask (or refine the selection and extract) to precisely isolate the
subject from its original background. Pay close attention to fine details like hair or intricate edges.
● Refine the mask as necessary to ensure a clean cut-out.
Step 3 - Integrate the Subject with the New Background
● Place the extracted subject layer onto the new background image.
● Resize and Position: Adjust the size and position of the subject to fit naturally within the new
background, paying attention to perspective and scale.
● Blend Edges: Further refine the edges of the subject's mask to blend seamlessly with the new
background. This might involve feathering, painting on the mask, or using specific edge refinement
tools.
Step 4 - Manipulate the Background (if needed)
● Blur/Focus: If desired, apply a subtle blur to the new background to create depth of field and make
the subject stand out.
● Adjust elements: Make minor adjustments to the new background if elements distract from the
subject (e.g., remove small objects using content-aware fill, adjust lighting slightly).
Step 5 - Perform Color Grading for Cohesion
● Analyze Lighting and Color: Compare the lighting, shadows, and color temperature of the subject
with the new background.
● Apply Color Adjustments: Use adjustment layers (e.g., Curves, Levels, Color Balance,
Hue/Saturation, Photo Filter, Selective Color, Gradient Map) to unify the subject and background.
○ Match the overall color tone and mood.
○ Adjust the contrast and brightness of the subject to match the background's environment.
○ Ensure shadows and highlights on the subject are consistent with the light source in the new
background.
● Aim for a natural and harmonious look where the subject appears to belong in the new environment.
Step 6 - Review and Finalization
● Continuously review your composite image. Look for any inconsistencies in lighting, color, or
blending.
● Make any final subtle adjustments to achieve a polished result.
● Save the final manipulated image in an appropriate format.
Step 7 - Submission
● Submit the original subject image, the original new background image, and your final composite
image to your lecturer for assessment. Include a brief explanation of the tools and techniques used
for masking, integration, and color grading.
