Jim, thank you so much for the time you put into this. I learned a few new things! Can you describe the steps for creating the png? Now that I have a better idea of what is actually happening, I found a You-Tube video that uses graphics and clipping masks: https://youtu.be/qg1vmQqVVOc

Did you use a pre-set graphic or "paint" your own?

Now, to your tutorial:

- I had never used "File - Place" so that saved a few steps right there (I would normally open another file, then drag from Photo Bin).

- I have used the PS Elements "Pattern" stamp once, so was pleased to revisit. It works a bit differently from your instructions, I think. I had to use a brush to apply your pattern texture over the whole image. But maybe I'm just mis-understanding.

- The color code you provided, f6bf70, seemed orange on my editing computer (see screenprint), is pinker here. Not the UHH "mustard yellow effect" again?

- I happened to use a photo with all blue sky and a simple central subject, so it wasn't until I chose a different pic (Mt Hood, #4 below) that I discovered how your png really works - duh!! A good one for Rongnongno's "pure stupidity" thread

Again, thank you so much for your time in putting this together. You and other PP Forum participants bring great value to the section!

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A couple of years ago I downloaded a bunch of free bird brushes from https://www.brusheezy.com/

So far I've only been using them like a "stamp" as silhouettes. Instructions on how to make your own are in this topic. There are a few examples in the 3-page thread. Bare-limb trees make a great stamp for composites, especially when texturized

#1 below is a simple creation, typical of what I do. The dragonflies and bits of trees are home-made, as are the smaller birds. I place each element on a separate layer for easy re-size, moving, flipping orientation and distorting shape.

Obviously, there are much more sophisticated applications (especially in the realm of painting), and I'm looking forward to seeing what ideas people share here. Thanks for the topic, Connie!

I have used Canon for 40+ years. My current camera is the EOS 1DS Mark III. I bought this new and love the camera. I shoot mostly landscapes. My photography today is changing and I need more dynamic range. The Canons maximum ISO is 3200 and there is a lot of noise to deal with. The Sony I have selected is the new Alpha 7R IV. I purchased two lenses, Both G master lenses. The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS and the Sony SEL24-70mm GM. I expect the camera around Oct 15. Can someone tell me; am I going to be happy with the Sony? This has left a big hole in the coffers, so to those that use the earlier models of the Alpha 7R series, is there something you couldn't live without for your Sony camera?
PS... I am also looking at the Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM Wide-angle Zoom. Is this a good choice or is there something else I overlooked.
I respect everyone's opinion here. Canon users, please don't lambast me and tell me I have made a big mistake. The deed is done, I'm switching to Sony.
D.Wolfe