I've been playing with Photoshop

[thismaz]

And with some trepidation I’m posting my first proper attempt at computer graphics, in the hope of getting a little concrit and some pointers, because I know that some of you, my dear flist, can create brilliant graphics in your sleep.

I had the 1999 version of paintshop pro on my old laptop, but I only used it for basic stuff. I didn't have most of the filters and effects that went with it, so the only time I tried to create a graphic, the result wasn't very successful. That's why I've decided this is my first proper attempt *g*
I got photoshop elements for my birthday and I worked through the online tutorials, until RL got busy. But, I’m on holiday this week, so I’ve actually had the chance to play with it.

It's under a cut, because it is a bit big.

Would you take a look and tell me what is wrong with it, and what I should do to improve?




Things I already know are -

There is a horizontal line in the sky on the left and a diagonal one above the letter.

I couldn't figure out how to make the letter look more solidly golden and glow properly, like this -


I think I did a pretty good job of making sure the light on both Merlin and Arthur was coming from the same direction (see kazzycee, I was listening to your talk at writerconuk in 2007) but I know the light is hitting the grass at the front from a different angle. In fact, I think it is the grass at the front I am most unhappy with.

There's also a shadow on Arthur's arm, with nothing to cast it.

Also, when I tried to upload it as an icon, which is what I intended it for, it lost all definition, as you can see.

I tried doing that by resizing it in photoshop and by uploading it full-sized and allowing LJ to reduce it. Neither method worked. I guess that is because it is too detailed? Or maybe the original material wasn't of sufficiently high quality?

I would be very grateful if you would bear in mind that this really is my first ever proper attempt to create a computer graphic from scratch, so please be gentle with me! *g* But any/all pointers that will help me improve will be gratefully received.