How can I make the subject of my underwater scene look more realistic?

[Tyrannax]

Hey all, I'm trying to create an underwater scene featuring a mosasaurus, but am looking for advice on how I might go about making it appear as if it truly belongs in the image. I've attached the PSD file showing what I've done. You can see that I've attempted to add surface ripple reflections to the animal, but something seems off. I understand it will never look too terribly realistic considering it is a cel-shaded painting, but I was hoping somone might take a look. Also, any tips on the underwater scene itself are great too! 

Thanks guys. Your help is more than appreciated. 

[kevin stohlmeyer]

Edit - the attachment did not come through right away.

[kevin stohlmeyer]

Id say adding some ambient lighting effects - from the water above and overlaying on the subject would help.

Perhaps also adding some contour lighting would add some depth to the subject.

Also having a color overlay simulating the water color to reduce the brightness of the greens and whites.

Right now it looks pasted on top of the water - not in it.

[Tyrannax]

Thanks a bunch for the helpful advice on this. It's much appreciated! 

[davescm · Accepted solution]

Taking your PSD:

I added a Gaussian blur - masking the blur at the front of the animal

I also added a color fill layer with the background blue - again masking it at the front of the animal

Dave

[Tyrannax]

Sorry for the late reply- I got sidetracked on a different project and am just now coming back to this. Very, very helpful advice- makes my life much easier. Thank you! 

[davescm]

You're welcome.

Dave