ULTIMATE SPIDERMAN COVER PROCESS 2

Once the final image was chosen, I used photoshop to create a cleaner version of the sketch.  Because of my tight deadline, I decided to do the entire cover digitally, as opposed to using the traditional method of penciling.

Next, I put the flats on the image to give definition to the characters.

 Once the flats were finished, I layed down a quick composition for the background.  At this point, I already knew my light sources: global lighting and back light, and attempted to create a sunset background.  With multiplying mode I start adding shadows to the characters.

I started adding light with a regular hard-edge brush with 75% opacity and 25% flow and adding a regular layer on top of my shadows.

Once I had a general idea of my lights and shadows, I compressed the file separating the characters on one layer and the background on another.  I began focusing on just the characters.  I used a hard brush over the entire character image, polishing their features and removing all pencil traces.  Then, I began to polish the background elements, adding some texture as well. 

For my final image, I finished polishing the edges and added a few details, such as the illumination and glow of the suit and web.  After finishing, I sent the cover to the editors, who decided they prefered Spiderman's mask on, in order to maintain mystery in the character. 

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