When you start a new project, it is essential to have the final image already in your mind. Not the details. Maybe not even the perspective you want to use. But the feeling, the lighting and the statement of your work. Why is that so important? Only when you know about these things you are able to "see" the final work through the first image. Just like a diamond cutter feels the final shape when looking at a rough diamond. 

The lighting of the scene is the key you need when you want to turn "normal" to "magic". No need to be a master when it comes to painting. Not necessery to use ultra special PS brushes. Just follow the logic of lighting in respect of all the light sources in your image. 

 

I was really very lucky that the weather was good for mushrooms theses days. I found them near my studio and I can tell they were very tasty. Before cooking them I of course took a few shots of them in the studio: Low angle, light from a window right behind the mushroom. 

So, guys and girls, let me know what you think!