A Starry Background

The first step of our cosmic landscape is to create the starry background. Our source document is a black background image that can be any size whatsoever. However, it is better to choose a longer image, as the rendering of the clouds will turn out better.

1. Select Filter > Noise > Add Noise.
   
   
2. Check the Gaussian and Monochromatic options, then select the quantity of noise you want to add.
   
   
The more noise you add, the denser the stellar field will be. In this case we have used a value of 150.


3. Select Filter > Blur > Gaussian Blur and apply a blur to the image.
   
   
You will have a greater choice in individual size of the stars if you apply more blur. In this case we chose a radius of 0.5.


4. Select Image > Adjust > Levels.
   
   


Figure 1: The levels setting window.


5. You can change the aspect of your stellar field by moving the three adjustment triangles. Make sure that the Preview box is checked so that the adjustments you make are displayed on screen.
   
   
6. Slide the black triangle firmly towards the right and the white triangle to the left. Then play with the grey triangle to obtain the star field of your dreams.
   
   

And there you have your star-studded sky!



Figure 2: A starry sky.