Photoshop by Jay Sankey

Created by: Jay Sankey

Photoshop is a visually stunning close-up card trick where a signed card appears to change inside a photograph, creating an impossible and magical transformation. The effect is highly visual and perfect for both close-up and stand-up performances. The trick requires no special props, making it impromptu and versatile. It’s a great addition to any magician’s repertoire, especially for those who enjoy card magic with a strong visual impact.

Key features

  • Impromptu and requires no special props

  • Highly visual and impossible transformation

  • Works for both close-up and stand-up performances

  • Requires practice, especially for smooth execution

  • Perfect for magicians who enjoy card magic with a strong visual impact

Pros

  • Highly visual and baffling effect

  • Impromptu and versatile

  • Clear and engaging teaching by Jay Sankey

  • Great for both close-up and stand-up performances

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the techniques

  • May be challenging for beginners

Effect

The Photoshop trick creates a stunning visual transformation where a card appears to change inside a photograph. The audience sees a card placed in a photo, and with a simple gesture, the card morphs into a completely different one. The effect is clean, visual, and leaves spectators questioning how such an impossible change could occur.

Full details

Photoshop is a card transformation effect that uses a photograph as the medium for the magic. The magician places a card into a photo, and with a wave of the hand, the card visually changes into another. The trick is designed to be highly visual and can be performed in both close-up and stand-up settings. It requires no gimmicked cards or special props, making it a versatile addition to any magician's repertoire. The method involves a combination of sleight of hand and clever presentation to create the illusion of a card changing within the photograph.

Who should consider the trick

Photoshop is ideal for magicians who enjoy visual, clean effects that can be performed in various settings. It’s particularly suited for those who perform close-up or stand-up magic and want a trick that leaves a strong impression. The trick is also great for magicians who appreciate effects that don’t rely on gimmicks or complex setups, as it uses ordinary playing cards and a photograph.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level of Photoshop is moderate. It requires proficiency in basic sleight of hand techniques, such as the double lift and top change, as well as the ability to execute smooth, natural gestures to cover the method. The one-hand top palm, which is used in the trick, can be challenging for some magicians and may require dedicated practice to master. However, once the techniques are learned, the trick flows smoothly and is highly effective.

What magicians say

Jay Sankey describes Photoshop as a "changing card effect but the change happens with a card inside a photograph." He emphasizes that the trick has a unique presentation and creates a very different kind of visual impact compared to other card transformation effects. Sankey also highlights the importance of practice, particularly for the one-hand top palm, which is a key move in the trick. He notes that while the trick requires effort to perfect, the payoff is worth it, as the effect is both baffling and visually stunning.

What people are saying about Photoshop

Jay Sankey says...

Photoshop is a changing card effect, but the change happens with a card inside a photograph. It’s a very different kind of image happening in the magic.

Tutorial videos