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[ 35 ]Step 25: Turn the subject and reflection layers back on. Run the same two filters
that we applied to the floor on the subject reflection layer; however, this time set
the Gaussian Blur to just 3 pixels, and for Sprayed Strokes, max out the Stroke
Length to 20.
Step 26: Finally, in the Layers panel, click on the Smart Filters layer mask applied to
the subject reflection layer. Using the same gradient that we used for the floor, press
X until the Foreground color is black. While holding the Shift key, drag a gradient
from above the horizon line to just below the document to fade the effects on the
subjects’ reflections. This is similar to what we did earlier, only we created a selection
first to generate the mask. You can certainly do it either way.
You can see the final result is a subtle yet realistic illuminated backdrop scene.
Remember, the individual layers are contained in the smart objects so you can go
back in and modify colors, and even swap out subjects. n