Photobashing
Building a concept by combining and painting over photos
Also known as: Photo bashing · Photobash · Photo collage concept · Matte painting photobash · Photo texture concept art
Definition
Photobashing is a concept art technique where parts of photographs and textures are combined into a rough image, and then painted over to unify the result and turn it into an original design. It is fast, produces rich detail and realistic textures, and is widely used for environments, vehicles and architecture. Artists cut, scale and arrange the photos on layers, adjust color and lighting to match, and paint to blend the pieces and add the elements that photos cannot give.
In production
Use photos you have the right to use, such as your own, or licensed and free-to-use libraries, and always paint over enough that the result is your own design, as studios and communities are strict about copying. Match perspective, light direction, color and sharpness across the pieces. Many artists combine photobashing with a 3D blockout, which gives correct perspective and light. Do not let photographic detail dominate the focal point.
