Creating files to use as overlays

[southwestform]

How are files with solid black backgrounds consisting of things such as sparkles or smoke made? Are these generally photos of real sparkles or smoke that are brought into Photoshop to turn the backgrounds black? Are they somehow computer generated? Curious because I'd like to design some if possible.

Thanks.

[c.pfaffenbichler]

Both options (photographs and artwork, whether 3d or painted) are possible and offer advantages and drawbacks.

are brought into Photoshop to turn the backgrounds black?

If the subjects are set against a truly black background they can be set to Blend Mode »Screen« to only brighten underlying images.

[Mike_Gondek]

https://www.google.com/search?ei=QqR-XJ2cHpHt5gLQp4jwCg&q=HOW+TO+SHOOT+SMOKE&oq=HOW+TO+SHOOT+SMOKE&g...

Episode 7: Smoke Photography - YouTube