Wide Dynamic Range

Sometimes it seems like we overcomplicate things. Like using a 3D app to make a picture look like an arts and crafts project. Maybe if I stole my kids' scissors and construction paper I could have done this image in "real life" rather than in my favorite 3D app (Luxology's modo). It's a nice thought, but the level of control and ability to pull off "fantastical" images are what makes 3D apps such a wonderful tool. Although it is a bit of blending of styles given the depth of field in the image and less stylized objects like the laptop and mouse. 

This is the background to a postcard I did to promote a vendor at work. I like the painterly feel that came to it (after a lot of head banging to make the whole piece work.) It only came together once I gave it the "golden hour" feel and made the documents look like migrating birds. (You'll also notice the floor and servers are the same as the Zen piece below. Time constraints made reusing elements imperative.)

This is an image I created for an invite to my son's first birthday party. I specifically photographed him with this overall shot in mind, being flexible mind you, that I am dealing with a toddler. I put in a new sky behind him and then added in the rocket that I created in 3D app modo.