Variegated background

[Mara]

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.

[Vikki]

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.

[Doug Nelson]

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

[Mara]

I added some noise and the background looks smooth now.

Thank you for your help.