Ted Chin is a San Francisco-based digital artist known for his surreal photo manipulations. He mixes fantasy with reality, blending unexpected elements to create dreamlike scenes—like fish clouds floating in the sky or hidden portals in everyday places.
In 2021, Ted’s unique style landed him the opportunity to design the cover for Adobe Photoshop. He also shares his process on Instagram and YouTube, giving a behind-the-scenes look at how his ideas come to life. Scroll down to see his surreal art!
More info: Instagram | tedslittledream.com | Facebook | x.com | youtube.com
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Image credits: tedslittledream
We reached out to Ted Chin to learn more about his creative process and the person behind the art. His work feels like a glimpse into another world, so we wondered—does he get his ideas from dreams, his imagination, or something else entirely?
"My work is definitely inspired by imagination. I like to think of my art as a way to bring daydreams to life—those fleeting thoughts where reality blends with something more magical. While I don't often reference my own dreams directly, I love creating worlds where the impossible feels real. Nature plays a big role in my work, especially the feeling of being lost in a peaceful, surreal landscape. A lot of it is also from film, movie, anime, comics, and books!"
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Image credits: tedslittledream
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Ted told us that he usually combines stock images with his own photography to bring his surreal ideas to life. "It depends on what I need for a particular piece. If I have the right image I've taken myself, I'll always prefer using that because it makes the work feel more personal. But stock images can be a great resource for elements I can't easily capture."
Ted's creative process begins with an idea or a feeling he wants to capture. "I often sketch or write down concepts first, then gather images that fit the vision. Once I have the main elements, I begin compositing in Photoshop—blending different pieces together, adjusting lighting, and adding textures to make everything feel cohesive. I like to experiment a lot during this stage, letting the piece evolve naturally. The final touches usually involve color grading and subtle details that help bring the scene to life."
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Image credits: tedslittledream
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Every artist has moments that make the journey feel worthwhile. We asked Ted about the most meaningful experience or feedback he’s received throughout his career. "One of the most rewarding experiences was seeing how my work could inspire others. When people tell me my art has helped them feel more creative or sparked their imagination, it reminds me why I created it in the first place. Being part of the Photoshop splash screen in 2021 was a huge milestone, but what stays with me the most are the personal messages from people who connect with the dreamlike worlds I create. Also, I got to do my first-ever solo exhibition last year and it was amazing to see people who came to see my work in person!"
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Image credits: tedslittledream
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With AI-generated art becoming more common, many artists are wondering how to stand out. We asked Ted what advice he has for those trying to develop a style that feels truly their own. "I think the key to developing a unique style is to focus on what excites you the most—whether it's certain themes, colors, or emotions. Try not to chase trends or compare yourself too much to others. Experiment and give yourself time to play without pressure. The more personal your work is, the harder it will be for AI to replicate because your perspective and imagination are what make your art one of a kind. Authenticity always stands out, especially in a world where so much content feels mass-produced."
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