Add artistic background

[CTE]

I would like to change the background on a photo so I went to help on adding an artistic background and followed the instructions step by step. The background did not change on the duplicate layer, however it did change on the original background layer and it covered up the subject so I ended up with just the new background. What am I doing wrong? Thank you. Carl

[ken1]

Please post the directions which led you astray.

[BobWarren]

I would guess that you had the layer with the original selected when you made the alteration. To put the change on a new layer, that layer must be the active layer -- click on the layer icon in the layers palette to select it and make it the active layer.

[CTE]

Hi Ken, Thanks for your reply. Here is the info.

PSE 5.0 Help
To add an artistic background to an image

When you add an artistic background to an image, you replace the existing background layer. For example, you could use the selection tools to create a layer separating your family members from a kitchen background, and then replace the kitchen with a nature background.

1. If your image has only a background layer, select it, and choose Layer > Duplicate Layer. Name the layer, and click OK.

(My image has only a background layer).

2. Select the background layer in the Layers palette.

(I did so-it is blue with the padlock showing)

3. In the Artwork And Effects palette, click the Artwork icon .

4. Choose Background from the category menu, and then choose a subcategory, such as Travel.

(I chose Nature)

5. Do one of the following:

Select a thumbnail and click Apply
Double-click a thumbnail
Drag the thumbnail to the image

(I tried all three with the same result for each of them)

I tried to put up a screen shot but I am not sure how to do so. If more info is required let me know. Carl

[CTE]

Hi Bob. I followed the instructions as stated. I created the duplicate layer and it was the active layer, I tried the original background layer as the active layer- each time the result was as previously stated. Any other thoughts? Carl

[ken1]

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1Rz4EttINUJX7YJAkWsWmLdtqucyMl1 (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1Rz4EttINUJX7YJAkWsWmLdtqucyMl1)

I have Elements v.3 which is slightly different, but the basic principle is the same.

There is a foreground and a background.

I opened a new blank file with white background. Duplicated the background layer and filled it with a pattern, for illustration. Your source for the new background is from another location in the program according to the algorithm propounded in the help file.

I then opened another file, made a selection (quickly and inartfully), then Edit>copy, then opened the original to Edit>paste.

HTH

[Jeff Perry]

Carl, the instructions tell you that the background layer (not the duplicate) is the one that will be changed. You need to duplicate the background layer first, so that after the background layer is modified, you original is on top.

That sound s like what is happening fomr your posts.

Jeff

[ken1]

Precisely. See layer structure here:

http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=1Rz4EttINUJX7YJAkWsWmLdtqucyMl1