Creating a Black Metal Logo from a Tree!

Creating a Black Metal Logo from a Tree!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Background and Inspiration
3. Choosing the Tree Photograph
4. Selecting the Best Branches
5. Creating a Rough Shape
6. Refining the Logo Design
7. Adding Spikes and Branches
8. Creating the Text Elements
9. Adding Texture and Effects
10. Finalizing the Black Metal Logo
11. Conclusion

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore a fun and lighthearted approach to logo design. Inspired by the popular meme of a bundle of sticks representing a death metal band logo, we will attempt to create a logo using just a single tree photograph. This tutorial will walk you through the process of selecting the best branches, refining the shape, and adding the necessary elements to achieve a black metal-inspired logo design.

Background and Inspiration

The idea for this tutorial came from a recent Twitch stream where I wanted to bring a meme to life through logo design. The meme features a bundle of sticks representing a death metal band logo. I thought it would be interesting to see if it's possible to create a logo using just a photograph of a tree. The goal is to embrace the dark and creepy aesthetic of black metal logos and create something unique and visually appealing.

Choosing the Tree Photograph

To start the logo design process, I utilized a website called Unsplash.com. This website provides a vast collection of license-free photographs that can be used for various projects. I selected a tree photograph with interesting and gnarly branches that would lend themselves well to the black metal aesthetic. It's important to credit the photographer when using their work, so be sure to give them a shout-out if you use their photograph in your projects.

Selecting the Best Branches

Using color select and contrasting adjustments, I isolated the black and white branches from the tree photograph. I then created a new layer with only the black branches. This selection process allowed me to handpick the branches that had the desired shape and aesthetic for the logo design. I focused on branches that resembled lightning bolts or had a creepy and organic look.

Creating a Rough Shape

Using a rough shape as a guide, I loosely sketched out the general form of the logo. This shape served as a foundation for the branches that would be added later. By reducing the opacity of the sketch layer, I could use it as a reference while placing the selected branches.

Refining the Logo Design

Using the selected branches, I began placing them on top of the rough shape to create the desired logo design. I warped and transformed the branches to fit the shape and experimented with different arrangements to achieve the desired black metal aesthetic. This process allowed for a natural and organic flow of branches, giving the logo design an authentic and unique look.

Adding Spikes and Branches

To enhance the black metal style of the logo, I added additional spikes and branches. These elements were strategically placed to create a sense of chaos and aggressiveness in the design. I paid attention to balance and weight to ensure that the letters of the logo stood out while maintaining an overall cohesive and visually pleasing composition.

Creating the Text Elements

To complete the logo, I merged the initial three letters, duplicated the layer, and flipped it horizontally to form the remaining letters. This created the word "COVID" since it was a topical subject at the time of the tutorial. By flipping and mirroring the elements, the logo took shape and resembled a bug or insect, which added to its overall aesthetic.

Adding Texture and Effects

To give the logo a more organic and disturbing appearance, I applied textures and effects. Using various blending modes and adjustments, I played with lighting and shadow to create a visually interesting design. I also experimented with different textures to achieve a dirty and creepy look that is characteristic of black metal logos.

Finalizing the Black Metal Logo

After fine-tuning the logo design and adding finishing touches, the black metal logo was complete. The experimentation and creative process helped to create a unique and visually appealing logo using just a photograph of a tree. The final result embodied the dark and creepy aesthetic of black metal logos and served as an interesting exercise in logo design.

Conclusion

This tutorial demonstrated how it's possible to create a black metal logo using only a tree photograph. By carefully selecting the branches and refining the design, it's possible to achieve a visually striking and unique logo design. The process allowed for experimentation and creativity, resulting in a logo that captures the essence of black metal aesthetics. Keep in mind that the fundamentals of logo design, such as balance and legibility, are essential even when exploring unconventional approaches.

Highlights:

• Explore a fun and lighthearted approach to logo design
• Create a black metal logo using just a tree photograph
• Select the best branches to achieve the desired aesthetic
• Refine the logo design by strategically placing branches
• Add spikes and additional branches for a black metal style
• Create text elements and complete the logo composition
• Enhance the logo with textures and effects for a creepy look
• Finalize the black metal logo with finishing touches
• Reflect on the process and the unique outcome achieved
• Embrace experimentation and creative thinking in logo design

FAQ

Q: Can I use any photograph from Unsplash for my projects? A: Yes, Unsplash provides a collection of license-free photographs that can be used for various projects. However, it's important to give credit to the photographer when using their work in your projects.

Q: How long does it take to create a black metal logo using this method? A: The duration of the logo creation process can vary based on individual preferences and the complexity of the design. In the tutorial, the process took approximately an hour and a half but can be adjusted according to personal workflow.

Q: Can I apply this technique to create logos for other genres or styles? A: Absolutely! While this tutorial focused on creating a black metal logo, the technique can be adapted and applied to create logos for different genres or styles. Feel free to experiment and explore your creativity.