How do I achieve this look in Photoshop? It's driving me completely crazy!!!

[SEMLowe]

Hi All

I was recommended this website because of the professional and creative talent that's in this forum.

I have some editorial experience and worked for a US based company few years ago from the UK then I became Fujifilm digital camera repair engineer so I can use a camera and use Photoshop! I am an artist too but an oil to canvas person.

I'm in the process of creating my website and getting some photos together for twitter. But I would like to create photos that look similar to the one I've attached - yes, Mariah Carey! Firstly ok, it may take some time to do, the right packages and of course probably a degree in Photograpy and Visual Art, but I really believe that I can do something similar and I would share with you the final result! Only one thing - where on this earth do I start?

OK here's what I have Photoshop CS4, Lightroom, Canon SLR EOS, a Sony Vaio 17" HD Laptop to work on, Corel Draw and a graphic tablet Bamboo.

Has anyone produced work like this before? Can anyone advise me please? Where to start or if I can achieve this using the packages I have?

I would be so grateful for any advice. Thank you.

Sara

[LostMahbles]

Specifically, what look are you referring to? If you can explain what about the photo you want to emulate, we can do our best to help.

[OsmosisStudios]

Exactly what youre looking to produce is gonna be necessary: I have no clue just looking at the image. Are you talking about the smooth skin, the golden hue, etc?

[windrider86]

Looks to me like a lot of layering. One for color, for sharpness and for smoothness.

[Digidave]

Originally Posted by windrider86

Looks to me like a lot of layering. One for color, for sharpness and for smoothness.

Don't forget the Plastic Surgeon!

[teaking]

WOW thats going to be a long! shoot deciding what plastic surgery to have.. booking a surgeon.. waiting for the bruising to settle.. and costly lol

[windrider86]

ah yes, the plastic suregeon, the easy part!