What are the best techniques for creating complex images with double exposure photography?

1 Choose your subjects

The first step in creating a double exposure image is to choose your subjects. You can use anything from portraits, landscapes, animals, objects, or abstract shapes. The key is to find a balance between contrast, texture, and color. For example, you can combine a silhouette with a detailed background, or a dark foreground with a bright sky. You can also use complementary or contrasting colors to create harmony or tension. Think about the mood, message, or story you want to convey with your image.

2 Adjust your exposure

The second step is to adjust your exposure settings. Depending on whether you are shooting in-camera or in post-processing, you may need to underexpose or overexpose your images to achieve the desired effect. For in-camera double exposure, you need to underexpose each image by one or two stops, so that they don't become too bright or washed out when combined. For post-processing double exposure, you need to overexpose your images by one or two stops, so that they don't become too dark or muddy when blended.

3 Blend your layers

The third step is to blend your layers. This is where the magic happens. If you are shooting in-camera, you can use the multiple exposure mode or the overlay mode on your camera, if available. These modes will automatically blend your images according to a predefined algorithm. If you are shooting in post-processing, you can use a software or an app that allows you to overlay and adjust your images manually. You can use different blending modes, such as multiply, screen, lighten, darken, or soft light, to create different effects.

4 Experiment with different styles

The fourth step is to experiment with different styles and techniques. There are no rules or limits to what you can do with double exposure photography. You can create simple or complex compositions, realistic or abstract images, monochrome or color images, and more. You can also try different methods, such as using filters, masks, gradients, textures, or shapes to enhance or alter your images. You can also mix film and digital, or use different types of film, such as slide, negative, or instant, to create unique results.

5 Learn from the masters

The fifth step is to learn from the masters of double exposure photography. There are many photographers who have used this technique to create stunning and inspiring images. Some of the most famous ones are Man Ray, Jerry Uelsmann, Duane Michals, Robert Heinecken, and Sarah Moon. You can study their work and see how they used double exposure to express their vision, style, and themes. You can also find contemporary examples of double exposure photography on platforms like Instagram, Flickr, or 500px.

6 Have fun and be creative

The sixth and final step is to have fun and be creative. Double exposure photography is a great way to explore your imagination and challenge your skills. You can experiment with different combinations, settings, and effects, and see what works and what doesn't. You can also use double exposure photography as a tool to tell a story, convey a message, or express an emotion. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and the outcome, and to share your work with others.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?