Part of the fun of photography is the ability to experiment with different tools, techniques, and styles, like multiple exposures. 

Note: Hover over any photo for caption and additional information.  

Multiple Exposure Defined

• Multiple exposure photography layers two or more different exposures, combining the photographs into one. 
• Multiple exposure are a good way to convey symbolism. 
• Multiple exposures often combine a portrait with a different scene. 

There are two ways you can create multiple exposures, in camera or post process. 

Coastal sunset inside a historic military fortPart of the fun of multiple exposures is creating images that are unexpected.

In Camera

Each camera manufacturer has different steps to accomplish this (refer to your owners manual), but these are the basic steps:

• Determine what images you want to capture to create the multiple exposure. 
• Take the first photo, or select image that is already on the memory card. 
• Take the second photo. 
• The camera will merge the two images into one and adjust exposure for you.
• Cameras will often retain the two images as individual images as well. 

Oak tree and poppies in bloom

Post Process (Photoshop)

• Open both images in Photoshop. 

• Use the pen tool, selection wand, or tool of choice to create a selection from the subject.  
• Create a layer mask to hide the background.
• Add the second image as a new layer. 
• If it is not the same size, resize to fit. 
• Choose "Screen" for blend mode. 
• This will layer the two images and create the multi-exposure effect. 
• You can resize and move the second image around if needed, to create the desired composition. 
• You can stop here or make additional adjustments to create the style you are looking for. 

Joshua Tree sunset Massive monzo-granite boulders are common parts of the landscape in Joshua Tree National Park so I thought I would combine two of them with a sunset to create a unique image using the steps above.

Multiple Exposure Ideas

• Blend two photos of the same subject. 

California Poppy This poppy was shot out of focus then again in focus then combined to create a dreamy effect.

• Merge images in an unexpected way. 

Boardwalk and coastal sunset This boardwalk that spans a dry grassy area was merged with a coastal sunset to create a contrasting image. The color tones in the two images were similar, which helps create a cohesive final result. Although, you can adjust color tones in post process to achieve this effect as well.

• Try converting image to a monochromatic color or black and white to create a more seamless effect. 

Tufa towers and incoming waves This image was converted to black and white to help blend the waves with the towers for a more cohesive look.

• Incorporate negative space from one of the images when layering. 

Dogwood close up and branchThis macro image of a dogwood had a fair amount of negative space on the left which provided a nice opportunity to merge in a photo of a bloom on a branch.

• Use multiple exposures to show movement. This cam be subjects moving through or within the frame.  

Lupine in movement This image combines an image of lupine shot at a fast exposure to freeze motion, then again at a long exposure while panning the camera.

I hope this post and images have given you some idea for creating your own multiple exposure works of art. Whatever you, don't forget to have fun with it!

Ranger (aka: Sweat Pea) on a mushroomI could not resist creating one truly silly image by combining a picture of my kitty with a tiny forest mushroom.

I saved the best for last.