How often have you looked at a photo and thought, ‘how did they do that?’ Among a sea of selfies and food shots some photographs are so intriguing or beautiful that they demand your attention and make you wonder. But what might be a passing interest for some, for me is an obsession. I’ve spent years studying trick photography and Photoshop techniques because knowing how a photo was created enhances the magic for me rather than ruining it.
A year ago I decided I wanted to become an expert in trick photography so I started the Exposing Illusions project. Every week on my website I create an image using a different photography technique and then write a tutorial about how the image was made to teach others the process. My focus this year has been on Photoshop compositing, but next year will be about in-camera techniques. The images I’ve created so far are primarily self-portraits which aim to tell imaginative stories that elate, inspire and provide an escape from the boredom of life’s routines. Join me to look behind the curtain!