5 Visual Tips To Creating Magical Compositions - Reflection Video + File!

Hey everyone,

I often like to explore meta concepts in my illustrations. They add a certain layer of information that makes the work unique. If you are into these dreamlike/magical concepts and don't know how to visually approach compositions like these, today I want to share with you five tips I currently use in my pieces, including two I just applied in my latest illustration, "Reflection". Let's dive in.

Reflection
We do have enough information that explains how some materials reflect our image - mirrors, glass, water, etc. Even knowing the physics behind it, it's still fascinating and attractive to see as a phenomenon. Using reflections in compositions not only creates a "first-person" perspective for the viewer but also opens the opportunity for you to play with different versions of the same coin. For example, if you have shapes getting reflected in a mirror, you can make changes in the reflection, thereby creating the illusion of an alternative universe or character.

I've been trying the mirror idea, not so often as a mystical subject but more like a composition tool for the viewer to immerse themselves in the situation: https://www.instagram.com/p/CM5A02WIMjS/ https://www.instagram.com/p/BmymBCdhwn6/

Gravity
The concept of gravity is also a phenomenon that is often altered in fantasy themes or dream-like compositions. By making objects or characters challenge this law of nature, you bring your character instantly into the realm of magic.

Slight suggestions like the fishes in my last illustration are good enough for the viewer to notice something mystical happening in the scene, but you can explore more complex shapes that are very rarely seen levitating. Some examples: https://www.instagram.com/p/CsCHowXMi0t/ https://www.instagram.com/p/CsJnEvuMYna/

Light and Opacity
The idea of spirit-like beings is strongly related to the nature of fantasy. One visual way to address this concept is by focusing on the glowing aspect of the object. I often like to create the shape, double click on the layer and select the "Outer Glow" effect. After that, turn the opacity of the shape/object/character to less than 90%. If you don't want to turn the whole opacity down, just pick some strategic points of your shape and "erase them" to allow the viewer to see through this specific shape.

For example, the character's hand in here https://www.instagram.com/p/CuZu5H3MrHa/

Scale Manipulation
Playing with the scale of objects or characters in your artwork can add a surreal, dreamlike quality that's perfect for fantasy or magical themes. Unexpected scale changes can make the ordinary seem extraordinary, and they can also help to emphasize certain elements in your composition. For instance, you might depict a tiny figure standing beside a massive flower, or a gigantic moon hanging low in the sky. Experiment with size relationships that defy reality to create a sense of wonder and intrigue.

For example, papermen https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs_8QqnMXAz/

Color Shifts
Colors can have a profound impact on the mood and atmosphere of your artwork. By shifting colors in unconventional ways, you can create a sense of otherworldliness that's characteristic of fantasy and magical realism. For example, you might color a daytime scene with hues typically associated with sunset, or give a character's skin an unusual tint. Pay attention to how different color combinations affect the viewer's perception and emotional response. Remember, it's not just about choosing "pretty" colors; it's about using color to tell a story and evoke feelings.

Example: https://www.instagram.com/p/CrTxvp-MP9V/

Conclusion
If you feel your concepts lack a bit of "creativity," try thinking about what constitutes "magic." Today's tips are part of that, but it's very useful to understand what makes a theme visually mystical or fantastic and apply those same rules to personal studies or ideas. This grants a new layer on top of whatever you are building, and if it actually matches the concept, it will be a win-win for you.

During the process video of this piece, you'll see how I manage to build a sense of magic in the composition through some visual tricks. ;) Check the PSD for the specific effects! I'm currently trying out some Spiderverse pixel effects, I love them.

.

I've seen so many patrons joining lately, which brings so much joy to me. Welcome to you all! Your support makes my work worth it. Let's make some great art together!

Feel free to ask any questions here in the comments, via DMs on Patreon, or in our Discord group. I'm here to help.

For additional information, visit our Patreon FAQ: https://ramonn90.myportfolio.com/faq and Patreon Catalogue: https://ramonn90.myportfolio.com/work