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[ 85 ]Step 10: Repeat Step Nine to create another copy of the
Star1 layer, but this time use Free Transform to make the
new copy smaller and with another unique rotation. Now
Change the Opacity of each star layer in the Layers panel,
with the largest stars being the brightest for a more believ-
able sky. The two smaller star layer copies can be dimmed
to preference.
Step 11: For this last step in the star creation, we can
do a bit of fine-tuning before moving on. For example, if
there are too many large stars (or any others), paint out
some of these with the Brush tool (B) set to black on your
Star1 copy layer mask (the larger stars). Also, if you create
another blank layer above the stars, you could give a few
stars a bit of a colored glow if you felt inclined. Do this by
painting with the desired color with a soft round brush at
90 px and a lowered Opacity in the Options Bar. Just dab
(with a single c lick) on a star or two before switching col-
ors. Add more variety by changing the size and Opacity
of your brush before each c lick (see image above).
AURORA BOREALIS
Since my own sabbatical plans to travel up into Canada
were laughed at by the pandemic this past spring (like
most plans), the closest to the aurora borealis I could travel
was escaping into Photoshop, which actually led to some
fun creative adventures, to
say the least. Here’s how
you can join me in escap-
ism and making your own
northern lights.Step 12: Create a new layer
group called “Auroras,” and
a new blank layer inside
this group called “Green.”
Place this group folder
above the Stars group folder
in the Layers panel of your
main document.