Creating impressive posters that depict an imaginative underwater world requires both creative and technical skills. In this tutorial, you will learn how to design a scene in the style of Tomb Raider that showcases Jessica in a fascinating water setting. We will apply various techniques in Photoshop to create a convincing impression of the underwater world.
Main insights
- Using path tools to create waves
- Importing textures and objects for a realistic underwater environment
- Adjusting colors and lights for a cohesive atmosphere
Step-by-step guide
Let's start with the first step to achieve the desired effect. You will learn how to combine the various elements to create a vibrant underwater scene.
Step 1: Create waves
To create the impression that Jessica is in the water, we need to start by creating a wave. Select the bottom third of your workspace and draw the wave using the pen tool. Place some points and shape a gentle curve that goes downwards. Experiment with the height and shape of the wave until you like it.

Step 2: Create group for underwater
After drawing the wave, go to your selection and create a new group. Name this group "Underwater". Within this group, you can add a color fill to create a base for the water. Choose a shade of blue that you like to represent the water. This first color will help you get an idea of the desired final effect.

Step 3: Add stones
To shape the concrete environment, add some stones to the scene. Choose an area that is visually appealing and copy this into your main motif. Make sure the stones are realistically positioned underwater.

Step 4: Position stones behind Jessica
To achieve a true underwater effect, the stones need to be arranged behind Jessica. Use the mask to invert the effect and adjust the visibility to make it look realistic. Now the bottom of the scene should appear like the underwater area.

Step 5: Adjust transparency and color
To make the water appear more realistic, adjust the transparency of the blue water area. Experiment with different blending modes to achieve the desired effect. The "Multiply" mode can help blend the colors harmoniously and create a deeper impression of the water.

Step 6: Make color corrections
The colors of the water may need adjustments to achieve a harmonious overall impression. Use hue and saturation layers to darken or lighten the water. Experiment with different settings until you are satisfied with the result.

Step 7: Brighten and darken areas
Create a new layer using a soft light blending mode to brighten certain areas and darken others. This technical detail will help create the illusion of light reflecting on the water surface. Position the darks and lights to support the perspective of the water.

Step 8: Final adjustments
Let the scene take shape and make your final adjustments. Pay particular attention to transitions and edges that need special attention to create a harmonious overall impression. The finishing touches can be done in later steps, but you should already have a good feeling for the scene.

Summary - Creating a poster in the style of Tomb Raider: Designing an underwater scenario
In this guide, you have learned how to create an impressive underwater scene that places Jessica in the mystical water terrain of Tomb Raider. With various techniques in Photoshop, you can add waves, adjust textures, and use lighting effects to create an immersive atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important tool for drawing waves?The pen tool is the most important tool for drawing waves.
How can I adjust the transparency of the water?The transparency can be adjusted in the layers panel by reducing the opacity of the blue color fill.
How do I position the stones correctly in the scene?The stones should be arranged behind Jessica to enhance the underwater effect.
How can I adjust the colors afterwards?Use hue and saturation layers for color adjustments of the water.
Why is the choice of blending mode crucial?The choice of blending mode affects how colors interact in your image and can support the realism of your underwater scene.