About the Image(s)

A busload of us “olde folks” climbed aboard a Patriots Landing bus for a trip to NW Trek in Pierce County to see the traveling troll exhibit by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. The exhibit features eight giant, multi-ton trolls tucked away along the park’s forested trails and throughout its natural habitats.

Dambo has created more than 172 trolls around the world, using recycled and reclaimed materials such as wood, pallets, and other locally sourced scraps. Many of these community-sponsored projects are built with help from local volunteers. We had more fun than work and thoroughly enjoyed the outing! I took lots of photographs and have already printed several to share with my neighbors. However, I haven't shown them this particular image yet.

I started with a new gray layer and added the elements to that layer. I considered using Smart Objects, but I really don't know enough about them yet, other than understanding that they're a non-destructive way of working. I also tried to improve the blending, but I don't think I've quite gotten the hang of that yet.

I made a point of saving my work along the way, only to lose all my layers when I flattened the image and closed the individual elements in Photoshop. That's when I discovered that saving doesn't necessarily mean saving everything the way you intended!
At this point, I think my brain is getting a little fried from trying to incorporate too many new processes at once. I may need to slow down and master a few techniques before adding more to the mix.

Dorinda isn't particularly fond of the effects I used, so I'll hold off on showing it around until I hear what you all think. As always, I'm looking forward to your honest opinions and some good suggestions on how I might improve it!