User:Disgustedorite/CompositeScreenshots

Sometimes, an adventure screenshot stylistically just doesn't cut it. Composite screenshots are an alternative where you don't have to worry about the rng needed to get the perfect shot, but they do take more time and require a slightly different set of skills.

What you will need

 * Spore
 * An art program which supports layers and transparency, such as Photoshop, GIMP, or MediBang
 * Optional but highly recommended: Spore Ultimate Graphics Fix
 * Optional: Any mod that adds test drive animations
 * Optional: Any mod that adds creature parts that can be useful in making props

Step 1: Sketch
Although it is theoretically possible to make a composite screenshot without a sketch, planning can have a better end result.

Quality doesn't matter, you could even do it with a mouse in MS paint, and you don't necessarily need to draw details that aren't important; as long as you understand what you drew, it's fine.

Step 2: Take test drive screenshots of creatures you intend to use
Use the black background, hide the UI with ctrl+H, and press C to take transparent images like these. You can find them in My Spore Creations/Pictures.

(to do: insert images)

Step 4: Create, screenshot, and position environment props
Any of these made in spaceship or building editors will have to have backgrounds removed by hand, unfortunately, as those do not have test drives.