How to Create a Blurred-Boundary Collage for a Book Cover in Photoshop

Creating a collage in Photoshop with blurred boundaries can give your book cover a soft and visually appealing look. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Set Up Your Document

Open Photoshop and create a new document.
- Go to File > New.
- Set your desired dimensions e.g. 6 x 9 inches for a book cover and resolution 300 DPI for print.

Step 2: Import Your Images

Import the Images you want to use.
- Go to File > Place Embedded to select and add each image. This will allow you to resize and position them easily.

Step 3: Arrange Your Images

Position your images on the canvas.
- Use the Move Tool (V) to drag and position the images as desired.
- You can resize them by selecting the corner handles while holding Shift to maintain proportions.

Step 4: Create Layer Masks

For each image layer add a layer mask.
- Select a layer then click the Add Layer Mask button at the bottom of the Layers panel.
Ensure the layer mask is selected, it should have a white border around it.

Step 5: Blur the Boundaries

Select the Gradient Tool (G).
- Choose a black-to-white gradient from the options at the top.
Click and drag on the layer mask to create a gradient that blends the images edges into the background or other images.
- You can experiment with the length and direction of your drag to achieve the desired effect.

Step 6: Fine-Tune the Blending

If needed you can use a soft brush to refine the mask.
- Select the Brush Tool (B) and set the foreground color to black to hide parts of the image or white to reveal.
- Adjust the brush size and hardness for more control.

Step 7: Add Background and Final Adjustments

Create a Background Layer.
- Add a new layer below your images and fill it with a color or gradient that complements your images.
Adjust the overall composition.
- Use Free Transform (Ctrl T) to resize or rotate images as necessary.
- Consider adding text or other design elements for your book cover.

Step 8: Save Your Work

Save your project as a PSD file to preserve layers.
Export your final image for print.
- Go to File > Export > Export As and choose your desired format e.g. JPEG or PNG.

Additional Tips

Use blending modes for different effects on layers found in the Layers panel. Consider adding a drop shadow or other layer styles for added depth. If you want to adjust colors use adjustment layers like Curves or Hue/Saturation.

This process will help you create a beautiful collage with blurred boundaries for your book cover. Happy designing!