Turning a digital photo into digital art - Part 1

NOTE: I use Adobe Photoshop CS2. Similar effects can be accomplished with other image editing applications.

For quite some time, I have "artified" my and others' images in a digital imaging forum. The photo above is one that I took in a neighbor's yard. Although it stands well on its own, I decided to use it in an "Artify" thread in this forum.

There are a few basic things that I tend to do when I "artify" an image. First, I generally adjust levels to increase the contrast of the image without losing detail. Which level I adjust first depends on the overall brightness of the image. If the image is slightly dark, I generally adjust the highlights and/or midtones first. If the image is slightly bright, I usually adjust the shadows first. Once adjusting the highlights or the shadows, you can usual tell whether you need to increase or decrease the midtones. Next, I often use selective color to change the mood of the image to the type of mood I want to portray. There is no single method for this. You just have to experiment. I can say that using grays, dark purples, and black tends to make an eerie image. However, other moods are more difficult to pinpoint. Now that the modifications have been made to set the mood, other filters and effects can be applied to create your own style. In this case, I borrowed an idea from Roger Dean. I did a search for cat tracks and found a simple set. So, I strategically placed them within the image. Then, I added a couple of painting effects. Finally, I added a ripple effect. You can see the end result below.

Saga is seeking a new vocalist!

I am sure that many of you are saying "Saga who?" That's one of the many reasons I am taking this opportunity to promote this great band!

In brief, Saga is a Canadian progressive rock band that formed in 1977. They have over 20 albums to their name. Their most popular songs include: On The Loose, Wind Him Up, Careful Where You Step, You're Not Alone, and Humble Stance. Their most adventurous effort was Generation 13. This was a concept album released in 1995. Their last album with original vocalist, Michael Sadler, was 10,000 Days which was released in 2007.

Brief musician profiles:

Michael Sadler: Former vocalist and occasional keyboard player. Michael's vocals are among the best in the rock genre.

Ian Crichton: Guitarist. Ian is an amazing guitarist. I'd say in the top 5% among rock guitarists. He's definitely on the level with guitarists like Alex Lifeson, Eddie Van Halen, and Adrian Belew. Ian often performs duets with Jim Gilmour. He has also done some blistering hot solos.

Jim Crichton: Bass and occasional keyboards. While Jim might not be a phenomenal bassist, he does play an important role in the band and does an excellent job holding up the low end.

Jim Gilmour: Keyboards, occasional lead/backing vocals, occasional clarinet. Jim Gilmour is probably one of the most innovative keyboard players in the rock genre. He might not quite have the technical prowess of Keith Emerson, but he's every bit as good as Tony Banks, Eddie Jobson, and Steve Winwood. He creates great atmospheres and performs amazing solos and duets. Jim's lead vocals in some of Saga's ballads are impeccable.

Steve Negus: Former drummer (1977-2003). Steve was a great drummer. Perhaps not on the level as Neil Peart, Terry Bozzio, or Carl Palmer. However, he could easily be compared to Chester Thompson, Mel Gaynor, or Chris Slade. He can change tempos and alternate rhythms without missing a beat. One listen to Steve's drumming during Help Me Out or Framed and you'll know he's a great drummer!

Saga's first 5 albums Saga (self titled), Images at Twilight, Silent Knight, Worlds Apart, and Heads or Tales, are considered the classics by many fans. All of these are solid albums and worth exploring if you don't already own them. If 5 albums is too much of an investment, I suggest starting with Saga's live albums: In Transit and Detours.

This brings us to the current dilemma. Michael Sadler officially left the band to be with his family on December 31, 2007. Thus, Saga is seeking a new singer. According to their site, they are going to hold auditions in Toronto. I have a better idea!

Let's petition Saga and CBS to do:


Please sign the petition by leaving comments to this post!

NOTE: Vocalist found!

Yes - 2008 Close To The Edge & Back Tour

After about a 3 year hiatus, Yes is kicking off a summer tour of the US in July! The touring band will consist of Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, Alan White, and Oliver Wakeman (Rick Wakeman's son). Unfortunately, Rick Wakeman's health isn't good enough to do a major tour. Rick, if you're reading this, I understand the importance of doing what is best for your health and respect you decision. On a more positive note, Jon has hinted at the possibility of the band hitting the studio after the tour in the latest issue of Notes From the Edge (#305). I hope this happens as I would love to hear new material from these outstanding musicians.

On the more personal end the spectrum, I was blessed with the chance to meet members of Yes on a few occasions. The first was in March of 1993. Rick Wakeman came to Founder's Inn in Virginia Beach, VA for an acoustic performance. I spoke to Rick for a few minutes after his performance and also got a chance to meet his good friend, Dan Wooding, who wrote Rick's first biography.

My next encounter with Yes was during the Talk tour. I e-mailed Dan Wooding to see if he could help me get backstage. Despite the fact that Rick Wakeman was not with the band at the time, Dan came through for me. Thanks Dan! I showed one the the stage hands an e-mail from Dan and he came back with a backstage pass.

Just before they guys behind NFTE announced that their site was the official Yes site, I had contacted Rick Wakeman's management to discuss the possibility of doing a web site for him. Shortly thereafter, I received an e-mail from Jeff Hunnicutt (of NFTE) asking me not to pursue things any further. Not wanting to step on any toes, I heeded his request.

As luck would have it, that was not my last brush with Yes. A friend and I were able to "unofficially" get backstage during the Open Your Eyes Tour. Here are a few pictures that I took:


I'm looking forward to the tour!

Please read the update post.