https://i.imgur.com/xW2vIXB.png

Hey guys, the link to my work in process is above. I would like some advice if I could. First thing - the background is...a mess. I'm experimenting with brushes and I'm out of practice. Backgrounds with brushes are my weakness, but here are a few things I could use some direction with.

1. I have been trying to figure out how to get the pinkish/purple part of the circle into a neon color with like a glow to it. Is there an easy way to het an outline on a circle for photoshop? I've used GIMP and PSP back in the day so I'm still learning the ins and outs. I also wanted to get it into more of non-filled semi-circle, but have been struggling with how to best do that.

2. I feel like this might be the same process as above, but I'd like to get the stars/galaxy in the background into like a more bright/glowy type look. I'm liking the overall colors, but would like more dimension.

3. I've wanted to work on headshots where I can add texture to the horse. Like where you see individual hairs. I've heard adding noise and then smudging can get that affect for wolves, but I feel like it's too much for horses. Basically, I just want to add more detail to the face and I'd love any input. I've been adding color for a highlight, but should I just be more brave with painting and add more detail that way?

I use Photoshop CS6 and I have a Wacom tablet, so I have the right tools - but I have been out for a long time and could use some serious guidance! I'm much better at full body horses with backgrounds, but I find this much more difficult and want to work on this weakness. The mane also needs more layers. Thanks so much for the help in advance!

https://i.imgur.com/1rHGupM.png

Here is an update. Still the same questions apply, but I wanted to get something semi finished for sanity's sake :)

 I'm not sure how to best go about achieving the neon effect you're looking for, but I think that is lovely so far!

For the glow, you can either apply layer styles, there's several that can emboss, add glows/shadows you can toy around with, ... or you can make sure those bits are on a seperate layer, copy that layer, then use blur options or such on the bottom layer. Setting the upper layer to overlay or such can also bring out colors at times.