Hi,

When I finish my work the background is consistent, but when I save the photo as a jpeg at high resolution it becomes variegated or blotchy.
I'm using the gradient tool and filter clouds for the background.

Thank you.

Can you post an example here? Also, the steps you take when saving to jpeg, and the program you are using.

Off the top of my head, I want to say that your colors are being reduced, which is causing banding......can't say for sure without seeing the photo and a bit more info.

Sometimes adding a slight bit of noise before compression can smooth out banding or blotching.

I added some noise and the background looks smooth now.

Thank you for your help.