Fractal Dreams II

May 28, 2004 | Pattern Techniques, Photoshop Tutorials

Here’s a few simple steps to simulate fractal images.
Though, not a walk-through as such, just a few pointers on what tools to use to achieve these.

First, start a new document, I used 500X500 preset.
Create a new empty Layer (Shift + Ctrl + N (Mac: Shift + Command + N), just above the default document background Layer.

Next, select the ‘Gradient Tool (G)’ on the Toolbar.
Then notice up on the Options Bar for that particular tool, the new options that are available. Particularly, the ‘Gradient Preset Picker’, the five Gradient Styles, and the Blend Mode in which to apply the gradient.
Select the ‘Gradient Preset Picker’ to define the gradient to use for this effect. I will use the ‘Yellow, Violet, Orange, Blue’ preset as I have selected below.

Then, just to the right of the Gradient Preset Picker, select the second style called ‘Radial Gradient’.
Also set the Blend Mode to ‘Difference’.

Finally, create a new Layer above the default Background Layer and fill it with Black. Then create a new empty Layer Shift + Ctrl + Alt +N (Mac: Shift + Command + Option + N) just above the filled black Layer as I have captured below.

Next with Layer 2 and the Gradient Tool active, click and drag a single radial gradient somewhere in the center of your document.
Similar to what I have captured below.

Note: There’s no particular goal here, and each click and drag action creates something random. So, at any stage you can always duplicate the Layer for further experimentation.

Next, start a new click and drag radial gradient from just outside the rings toward the center. (As I have captured below)

This will achieve a result similar to the below capture.

Again form the center of the original radial gradient click and drag to create another one towards the center of the second radial gradient.
Simple repeat the radial gradient click and drag back and forth until a desirable fractal effect is achieved.
Here is what I got after the first two steps.
After a half a dozen applications.
Note: It’s handy to duplicate certain renditions that are of interest for further use. Also, alternate with different gradient presets to see what effects come through.
Here’s a few more variations.
After many duplications and altering blending modes, here is the final larger image. (151 kb)