Moon by Simon Wedege (license)
Mars by Wikimedia Commons (license)
Green Hills by Alfred Borchard (license)
Clouds from above by Sune Petersen (license)
Seagulls by Image*After (license)
Explore the full 1200 x 1200px image preview to embark on a collaborative creation journey. 
This tutorial initiates with the creation of a fresh Photoshop document, 1200 x 1200px in size, featuring a pristine white background. 
Integrate a landscape image into the canvas, utilizing the Free Transform command (Ctrl/Cmd + T) to resize and align it. Employ the Move Tool (V) to position the photo, ensuring the barn/shed rests at the bottom left corner. 
Focus on crafting the sky by creating a mask on the landscape image. Access the Add vector mask button at the Layers Panel’s bottom, select the Gradient Tool (G), and apply a Black to 0% opacity gradient from the photo’s top to the mountain’s start. 
Generate a sky gradient for the canvas’s top by creating a new layer above the landscape photo, selecting a blue hue, and using the Gradient Tool (G) to drag the gradient from a third of the canvas down to the mountain’s location. 
On a new layer atop the gradient, apply a darker blue gradient from the canvas’s top to a third of the way down. Create an additional gradient at a slight angle for a more natural appearance. 
Implement a dramatic color transformation to achieve the desired aesthetic, using adjustment layers. A surreal and enigmatic look will be imparted to the photo. 
Utilize the Create new fill or adjustment layer icon to apply a Hue/Saturation adjustment, reducing saturation to -77. Follow with a Gradient Map adjustment, setting the left color to purple (#9A00CC) and the right to orange-yellow (#FFD43D). 
Introduce the main planet by importing the Mars image and isolating it from its black background. 
Utilize the Ellipse Tool (U) and Paths icon to encircle the planet, adjusting with Free Transform (Ctrl/Cmd + T) for precise alignment. Use the Move Tool (V) to position the planet within the canvas, adjusting size and rotation as needed. 
Select the Paths tab and make a selection of the work path, then use the Move Tool (V) to place the planet on the canvas. Employ Free Transform (Ctrl/Cmd + T) to resize and orient the planet appropriately. 
Adjust the planet’s layer position and blending mode to Overlay to enhance the visual effect. Apply layer styles such as Gradient Overlay and Outer Glow to refine the planet’s appearance. 
Mask the planet’s top and bottom using a Black to 0% opacity gradient to create a fading effect into the darkness and light. 
Introduce stars by creating a new layer, filling it with black, and adding noise. Adjust levels and blend mode to create a subtle star field. 
Adjust star opacity and apply Gaussian Blur for a more realistic look. 
Include clouds and birds by importing images and applying layer masks with the Brush Tool (B) for a natural look. 
Repeat the process for the second planet, the moon, using similar techniques to create a harmonious composition. 
Enhance the moon’s appearance with Outer Glow and masking to create a natural fade into the canvas. Apply Gaussian Blur and adjust opacity for a refined look. 
Finalize the space landscape by adding additional elements such as stars, a shooting star, and space dust. Adjust layer styles and blending modes to create a cohesive and visually captivating scene. 
Dim the landscape photo’s opacity to 80% for a consistent aesthetic. 
This tutorial demonstrates the creation of a realistic space scene through photo manipulation, combining stock images and digital art techniques. Enjoy the process and share your feedback in the comments! 
space_landscape_photomanipulation.zip (8.2 MB)
