Photoshopper27

Luminosity Masking for Skin smoothing

2012-02-08T19:02:00.001+05:30

I have shown Luminosity Masking before and I will show it again. But what in heaven does 'luminosity masking' do? Well, for one it softens the skin. It brings the colors in an image to life. And, the technique works for just about any image once you have got the hang of it. You can also do this in any version of Photoshop.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to liquid-venus-stock

This is the effect I will achieve. You can make out the difference in the two images.

Step 1 : Click the Color Sampler Tool. Some people hate to use this tool, because they don't know how to remove the numbers it leaves behind.

Step 2 : I have clicked thrice with the Color Sampler -- 1 for the White point, 2 for the Grey point and 3 for the Black point. How you place the points will depend on the image you use.

Step 3 : Add a Levels Adjustment Layer.

Step 4 : Click the White eyedropper.

Step 5 : Click with the White eyedropper on the first point i.e. the White point. You should immediately notice a difference in tone.

Step 6 : Click the Gray eyedropper.

Step 7 : Click on the second point i.e. the Grey point.

Step 8 : Click the Black eyedropper.

Step 9 : Click on the Black point.

Step 10 : Click the Color Sampler again. Look in the top panel. You will find a 'Clear' button. Click it will make the numbers go away.

Step11 : ALT+CLICK to see the 'Before' an 'After'.

The image looks like this. Compare it with the original to see the difference.

Step 12 : Click on the Background Layer.

Step 13 : Press CTRL+J to make a Background copy layer.

Step 14 : Go to Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur.

Step 15 : In the Gaussian Blur dialogue set the Radius such that only the details are faintly visible.

This is how the image looks with the Gaussian Blur. This will give you an idea how much to blur.

Step 16 : Click off the eye icon of the Background copy layer.

Step 17 : Go over to the Channels palette.

Step 18 : Click the Red, Green and Blue channels in turn.

Step 19 : The Red, Green and Blue channels look like this. Look for the channel where the skin looks the softest. It will usually be the Red channel.

Step 20 : CTRL+CLICK the thumbnail on the Red channel.

A selection of marching ants appear as soon as you CTRL+CLICK.

Step 21 : Click back in the Layers panel. Click on the eye icon on the background copy with the selection still in place.

The image look like this.

Step 22 : Click the Layer mask button. A layer mask forms on Background copy layer.

The image looks like this. The skin has smoothed out, but so also all details like, eyes, lips and hair.

The Foreground/Background colors should be set to the default Black/White.

Step 23 : Press b for the Brush Tool. To make the brush small press [ (left square bracket) and to make it large ] (right square bracket). To make it soft press SHIFT+[ and to make it hard SHIFT+].

We will use a soft brush. Vary the size as you paint.

Step 24 : In the top panel let the Mode remain at Normal, set the Opacity and Flow to 50%.

Step 25 : Since you are painting at 50% Opacity and Flow, make a number of passes with the Brush over the eyes and eyelids to bring back details.

Step 26 : Make the Brush small and paint the eyebrows.

Step 27 : Paint the lips and teeth.

Step 28 : The nostrils.

Step 29 : Lastly paint the hair and the clothes. That is all.

Other photoshop tutorials are here

Sketch with Photoshop New Tutorial

2012-02-07T21:55:00.001+05:30

Sketching in Photoshop is easy. There are two ways in which you can change a color photo to a sketch. Both are easy and does not require great photoshop skills. It can also be done in any version of photoshop. It works with most images. The two methods will give different effects. At the outset let me say that none of the values that I will be using are absolute. They will vary from image to image. It gives you scope to experiment and thereby learn photoshop a bit better.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here
It belongs to mjranum-stock

This is a sketch with one method.

This is a sketch with the second method.

You will also be able to create this effect if you wish.

Step 1 : In the first method, press CTRL+J to duplicate the Background Layer.

Step 2 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+U to desaturate Layer1.

Step 3 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate the desaturated Layer1 into Layer1 copy.

Step 4 : Press CTRL+I to invert.

The image will look like a negative.

Step 5 : Change the Blend Mode to Color Dodge.

The image may have some black grains like this, or it may be just pure white.

Step 6 : Go to Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur.

Step 7 : The Gaussian Blur dialogue box appears. Drag the Radius slider towards the right. The more you drag to the right the more pronounced will the effect will be. I have dragged it to 5.5 pixels. By no means is this absolute. I just like this effect.

This is the effect. The lines are light in most places.

If I drag the Radius slider to 10.0 I will get a more pronounced effect.

This is the effect. How much Gaussian Blur you will give will depend on your liking. This is the first method.

Step 1 : For the second method, let us begin again with the Background Layer.

Step 2 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate the Background layer to Layer 1.

Step 3 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+U to desaturate Layer 1.

Step 4 : Go to Filter>Sharpen>Unsharp Mask

Step 5 : These are the settings that I have given for Amount, Radius and Threshold. Click OK. This is particular to this image. Also liking plays a great part.

Step 6 : Go to Filter>Stylize>Find Edges.

This is the effect I have got. If you wish to vary this you will have to do so in Step 5.

Step 7 : If you are satisfied with the effect, there is no need to go for this step. Otherwise press CTRL+L to bring up the Levels dialogue box.

Step 8 : Drag the Black slider at the left inwards to make the lines darker if you wish. Click OK.

This is the effect.

Step 9 : To go a bit further, click the Add Layer mask button. A Layer Mask forms next to the Layer thumbnail on Layer1.

Step 10 : The Foreground/Background Colors should be set to Black/White.

Step 11 : Click the Gradient Tool.

Step 12 : Click the tiny arrow to reveal the Gradients. Click on the Foreground to Transparent.

Step 13 : Click on the Reflected Gradient icon.

Step 14 : Press SHIFT and drag just a little bit.

You will get something like this.
Other photoshop tutorials are here

R I P

2012-01-25T23:53:00.001+05:30

My wife Sujata Chowdhury passed away at 17:00 pm this evening. She was 51.
She was hospitalised on December 13. She suffered two brain strokes and developed hospital acquired pneumonia while on ventilation. She put up a valiant fight. But it all ended this evening.

This is thank all those who came forward with financial assistance after I made an appeal on this blog as I was unable to meet the huge hospital bills. The hospital bill has been settled.
I request visitors of this blog to pray for her soul.

Thank you all.
I specially wish to thank Office colleagues, former colleagues, friends, relatives and the Women's Fellowship of the St James' Church Kolkata who came forward with financial assistance.

Srinivasan Sivabalan, a former PTI emplyoyee who is now in London sent Rs 5001.

Nirav Rawal, 6508 DESEO APT 323, IRVING, TX 75039. United States has contributed $ 200.

A donation of Rs 10,000 was given by Sister Prema, Superior General, Missionaries of Charity, Kolkata.

A donation of Rs 20,000 was made by Ranajoy Banerjee, former director of the Tea Board, India.

Square Design in Photoshop

2012-01-18T22:24:00.001+05:30

This is a simple yet very good special effect which can be done in any version of Photoshop. This will work with most images and should be quite easy to do. Some of the steps are repetitive and may take time, but they are worth it. You don't have to follow word for word of this tutorial. The settings are given for the image used. You could easily experiment if you use another image. The general guidelines should be followed.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to faestock

This is the effect you will be able to make.

Step 1 : Click the New Layer icon. A new Layer 1 forms above the Background Layer.

Step 2 : Click the Rectangular Marquee tool.

Step 3 : Press SHIFT and draw out a selection as shown.

Step 4 : Keep SHIFT pressed. You will be able to draw additional selections like this.

Step 5 : Go to Windows>Swatches.

Step 6 : In the Swatches click on 10% Gray.

The Foreground Color changes to the color picked.

Step 7 : Press ALT+BACKSPACE to fill with the Foreground Color.

Press CTRL+D to deselect.

Step 8 : Click the New Layer icon. A new Layer 2 forms above Layer 1.

Step 9 : Click the Rectangular Marquee Tool. Press SHIFT and draw a second set of selections as shown.

Step 10 : In the Swatches click on 25% Gray. The Foreground Color will change to the color picked.

Step 11 : Press ALT+BACKSPACE to fill the second set of selections with the chosen color. Press CTRL+D to deselect.

Step 12 : Click the New Layer icon. A new Layer 3 forms.

Step 13 : With the Rectangular Marquee make further selections keeping SHIFT pressed.

Step 14 : Click 40% Gray in Swatches. The foreground Color changes to the color picked.

Step 15 : Press ALT+BACKSPACE to fill the selections with the chosen color. Press CTRL+D to deselect.

Step 16 : Click the New Layer icon. A new layer 4 forms.

Step 17 : Click the Rectangular Marquee Tool to make further selections like this.

Step 18 : Click 50% Gray in the Swatches.

Step 19 : Press ALT+BACKSPACE to fill the selections with the chosen color. Press CTRL+D to deselect. The model has been covered with the square shapes.

Step 20 : Click where the arrow points to change the Blend Mode. Note that Layer 4 is highlighted. This is the Layer you are on.

Step 21 : Change the Blend Mode of Layer 4 to Soft Light.

Step 22 : Now click on Layer3, 2 and 1 in turn. Change the Blend modes so that the Blend Mode of each is Soft Light. I am currently on Layer1.

The image should look like this after changing the Blend Mode of Layers 4 to 1 to Soft Light.

Step 23 : CTRL+CLICK the thumbnail of Layer 1.

A selection reappears.

Step 24 : Press CTRL+SHIFT and click on the thumbnail of Layer2.

The selection looks like this.

Step 25 : Press CTRL+SHIFT and click on the thumbnail of Layer 3.

The selection looks like this.

Step 26 : Press CTRL+SHIFT and click on Layer4.

The selection looks like this.

Step 27 : With the selection in place click on the Background Layer.

Step 28 : Press CTRL+J. The selection is cut out and pasted on Layer5.

Step 29 : Click on Layer1.

Step 30 : Either click the FX button at the bottom of Layers palette or double click Layer 4 where shown to bring up the Blending Options.

Step 31 : Click on drop Shadow and click OK.

The Drop Shadow has been added to a part of the selection.

Step 32 : Press ALT and drag up the FX icon to Layer2.

The Drop Shadow has been added to the selection on Layer2.

Step 33 : Keeping ALT pressed, drag the FX icon to Layer 3 and Layer 4.

The Drop Shadow has been added to all parts of the selections i.e. all the rectangular selections.

Step 34 : Click on the Background Layer.

Step 35 : Click the New Layer icon. A New Layer 6 forms above the Background Layer.

Step 36 : Click the Foreground Color.

The Color Picker opens.

Step 37 : Click on a color in the background. The color is selected in the Color Picker. The Foreground Color changes to the color picked. Click OK in the Color Picker.

Step 38 : Click the Gradient Tool. In the top panel click on the tiny arrow at right to bring up the Gradient Editor.

Step 39 : Clicking on the tiny arrow brings up the Gradient Editor.

Click on the second Gradient in the top row -- Foreground to Transparent.

Step 40 : Check the Reverse in the top panel.

Step 41 : Drag the Gradient Tool diagonally as shown.

The image looks like this depending on how you have drawn the diagonal.

Step 42 : Download this cracked glass texture here

It belongs to EverythingIsInStock

Step 43 : Open the Texture in Photoshop. Go to Image>Image Rotation>90 degree CCW.

Step 44 : Press CTRL+A (Select All) then CTRL+C (Copy).

Step 45 : Go to this image and press CTRL+V (Paste). The texture is pasted.

Step 46 : If you look in the Layers palette, you will see in on Layer7 (the Texture) above Layer 6 in which we added the Gradient.

Step 47 : Press CTRL+T. A selection forms. Press SHIFT+ALT and drag a corner handle to resize the Texture. Press ENTER.

The image looks like this.

Step 48 : Change the Blend Mode of Layer 7 to Overlay.

And here is the completed image. Try it out.

Other photoshop tutorials are here

Cube Wrap in Photoshop CS5 Opacity Map

2012-01-08T20:45:00.002+05:30

You learnt about the Cube Wrap in Photoshop CS5 in the last tutorial which is here

I have shown how to use Text with the Cube Wrap which appears to float in air. It is called an Opacity Map. Here we will see what can be done with Shapes.

This is the effect I will create with the Cube Wrap.

I will be using this free stock image for the tutorial. You will find it here

It belongs to

mjranum-stock

Step 1 : I have opened the image in Photoshop. Click the New Layer icon. A new Layer 1 forms above the Background Layer.

Step 2 : Go to 3D>New Shape From Layer>Cube Wrap.

Photoshop produces the default Cube.

Step 3 : Click the 3D (Scene) icon.

The 3D (Scene) dialogue opens.

Step 4 : Click the Top_Material. Now click where shown to see the other Presets.

Step 5 : You can see there are innumerable Presets in Photoshop. I have clicked on Wood Ash. You can use any.

The new Preset is now visible. You may find a bounding box as seen here. Press CTRL+H to make it go away.

Step 6 : Click the 3D Object Rotate Tool from the fly out.

Step 7 : Change the Position in the top panel to Front.

The front of the Cube is now visible. Now to create the Opacity Map.

Step 8 : Go to 3D>3D Paint Mode>Opacity.

Step 9 : Click the tiny black arrow to edit the Opacity Texture.

Step 10 : Click the New texture.

Step 11 : The new texture appears. It is named Top_Material - Opacity by default. Click OK.

The Opacity Map has been created.

Step 12 : Click the New Layer icon in the Layers palette and a new Layer2 forms.

Step 13 : Click the Custom Shape Tool.

Step 14 : In the top panel click the Shape layers icon.

Step 15 : From the drop down after clicking the Shape, choose any shape. I have chosen 8 Point Star Frame.

Step 16 : Drag out the shape on the Opacity Map.

Step 17 : Click the tiny black arrow where the white arrow points to.

Step 18 : From the pop up click on Merge down. You can also use the shortcut CTRL+E.

Step 19 : Click the 3D Object Rotate Tool.

Step 20 : Use the cursor to rotate the Cube any way you want.

Step 21 : Double click the Top_Material - Opacity.

The image looks like this as soon as you double click.

Step 22 : Press CTRL+I to invert.

Step 23 : The Layers palette looks like this.

Step 24 : Go to File>Close.

Step 25 : This dialogue appears asking if you wish to save. Click Yes.

Photoshop takes a moment or two and then the Shape is visible.

Use the 3D Object Rotate Tool to rotate the shape if you wish.

Or use the Move Tool to reposition the shape.

Step 26 : I have used the Move Tool to reposition the shape. A bounding box appears. Press CTRL+H to make it go away.

The bounding box has gone away.

Step 27 : Click the FX button to add a Layer Style.

Step 28 : Click on Drop Shadow.

Step 29 : Click OK without changing any of the settings in Drop Shadow.

Step 30 : Right click on Drop Shadow.

Step 31 Click on Create layer from the pop up.

Step 32 : This dialogue appears. Click OK.

Step 33 : A Layer 1's Drop Shadow forms. It is not selected by default. Click to select it.

Step 34 : Press CTRL+T. A selection forms.

Step 35 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+ALT and drag the left top corner inwards. The right corner will also follow suit automatically.

Step 36 : Press CTRL+T and drag the middle handle straight down.

Step 37 : Place the cursor in the middle of the selection and drag the shadow to the bottom of the feet.

Step 38 : Press SHIFT+ALT and drag out the middle handle on the right. Press ENTER. If you see a bounding box press CTRL+H.

Step 39 : Lower the Opacity of the Layer to 25%.

The image looks like this.

Step 40 : Click Layer1. Click the Layer Mask button and a Layer mask forms on Layer 1.

Step 41 : Make sure the Foreground/Background Color is set to Black/White.

Step 42 : Zoom in. Press b for the Brush Tool. Use the [ ] the left/right square brackets to make the brush small or large. Press SHIFT+[ to make the Brush soft and SHIFT+] to make it hard.

Step 43 : Begin painting carefully with the Brush to remove the shape from the front to make it appear that the model is inside.

Step 44 : If you accidentally paint out am portion you should not have, press x to switch the Foreground Color to White and paint it back. Then resume painting with Black.

The finished image. Other photoshop tutorials are here

Cube Wrap in Photoshop CS5

2012-01-07T21:53:00.000+05:30

Cube Wrap is a feature in Photoshop CS5. It is a totally new feature. If you wish to add Text o a cube, you would ordinarily add it to all six sides. But in CS5, you can add it to just one side and Photoshop does the rest of the work. So let's get down to see how it can be done. I expect you to know the Text Tool for this tutorial. We will make Text float in the air.

This is the effect we will create.

I will be using this free stock photo. You can download it from here

It belongs to StLadyBird

It is a pretty high resolution image measuring over 5 MB in size.

There is only the Background Layer in the Layers palette.

Step 1 : Click the New layer icon. A new Layer 1 forms.

Step 2 : Go to 3D>New Shape from Layer>Cube Wrap.

Step 3 : This is the default 3D cube that forms.

The Layers panel looks like this.

Step 4 : Click the 3D (Scene) icon on the right hand side panel.

The 3D (Scene) opens.

Step 5 : Click the Top Material (the small white hand points to it).

Step 6 : The Select Diffuse Color dialogue opens. It is the same as the Color Picker.

Step 7 : I have clicked with the cursor on the hand of the model to select the color. Note that the color of the Cube immediately changes. Click OK in the Select Diffuse Color.

Note that the Diffuse Color has change to the color picked.

Step 8 : Click the 3D Rotate Camera Tool from the fly out at left.

Step 9 : In the top panel change the View to Front from the drop down.

The Cube changes to the Front View.

Step 10 : Go to 3D>3D Paint Mode >Opacity.

Step 11 : Click the tiny arrow beside the Opacity in the 3D (Materials) in the right panel.

Step 12 : A fly out opens. Click on New Texture.

Step 13 : The New Texture dialogue opens. Just click OK without changing any of the settings.

Step 14 : Select the Type Tool.

Step 15 : Select your Font from the drop down in the top panel. I have chosen Arial Rounded.

Step 16 : I have typed out my Text.

Step 17 : Press CTRL+T. A selection appears. Rotate the Text and resize it as shown. Press Enter to apply the Text.

Step 18 : Click the tiny arrow shown at the right top of the Layers palette.

Step 19 : From the pop up menu click on Merge Down.

Step 20 : Photoshop will render the 3D.

My Cube looks like this now. It does not look like 3D at all.

Step 21 : Click the 3D Rotate Camera Tool.

By dragging the cursor you will be able to rotate the Cube. You can now see that Photoshop has placed the Text on all six sides of the Cube.

I have rotated the cube like this. You can always rotate it further.

But this is not the effect we are looking for.

Step 22 : Double click the Top Material in the Layers palette.

The image looks like this.

The Layers palette looks like this.

Step 23 : Press CTRL+I to invert. The image inverts.

Step 24 : Go to File>Close.

Step 25 : This dialogue box opens. Click Yes.

There you have the Text floating on thin air.

Step 26 : Zoom out.

Step 27 : Press CTRL+T. This dialogue box opens. Click on Convert.

Step 28 : Press SHIFT+ALT and drag out the middle handles till the Text is fully stretched out. Press ENTER.

Step 29 : Click the FX button.

Step 30 : Click on Stroke.

Step 31 : Click on Color.

Step 32 : The Select Stroke Color dialogue opens. It is the same as the Color Picker.

Step 33 : Type in ffffff (6fs) at the bottom (highlighted in green). Don't click OK.

Step 34 : Click on Drop Shadow. Leave the settings as it is.

Step 35 : Click on Bevel and Emboss and also on Contour. Click OK.

Step 36 : Lower the Fill to 0%.

The finished image.

Other photoshop tutorials are here

Gold Gradient

2012-01-02T21:44:00.000+05:30

I have said before that there is no such color as Gold in Photoshop, but it can be created. Here we will not create a Gold Gradient, but make use of one available on the internet.

This is the effect I will create with this free stock image and a free Gold Gradient available on the internet.

We will be using this free Gold Gradient. You can download it here

It has been provided by ademmm

Download the Gradient to a folder on your computer.

I will also be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to cyberkittenstock

Step 1 : Click the New Layer icon. A new Layer 1 forms.

Step 2 : Go to Edit>Preferences>Guides, Grid & Slices.

Step 3 : Change the Gridline Every to 2.25 inches and Subdivisions to 1.

Step 4 : Go to View>Show>Grid. This will add a tick mark to Grid.

Step 5 : The Grid is applied.

Step 6 : Click the Rectangular Marquee tool and the Add to selection button shown by the red arrow.

Step 7 : Use the Marquee Tool to drag out a selection as shown.

Step 8 : Drag out selections as shown. You will be add to the selection as we had clicked the Add to Selection in the top panel.

Step 9 : Click the Adjustment Layer button.

Step 10 : Click on Gradient Map.

The Gradient Map appears.

Step 11 : Click where the arrow points. You can see the default Gradients.

Step 12 : Click on the small arrow.

Step 13 : Click on Load Gradients from the pop up that appears.

Step 14 : Navigate to the folder where you downloaded the Gradient and click on it.

Step 15 : You can see the Gold gradients loaded at the bottom of the default Gradients.

Step 16 : I am clicking on a particular Gradient. It is the first one in the bottom row.

Step 17 : Press CTRL+H to make the grid go away and the image looks like this.

Step 18 : Click on the Background Layer.

Step 19 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate the Background Layer. Press CTRL+SHIFT+U to desaturate the layer.

The completed image.

Other photoshop tutorials are here

Gold Tone

2011-12-23T18:05:00.000+05:30

This is about giving a gold tone to images if you fancy that kind of thing. There is no such color as gold in Photoshop, but it can be created easily.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to ToplessSugarCube

Images like this work best for gold toning.

I will also be using this image for creating the gold tint.

It belongs to Stock-Nightmare

You will find it here

Let us get started.

Step 1 : The first thing to do is to separate the image from the Background. For this you can use the Quick Selection Tool, the Pen Tool or the Magnetic Lasso whichever you feel comfortable with. If you use the Pen Tool or the Magnetic Lasso, remember to feather the selection by 2 pixels or else you will get jagged edges.

The Foreground and Background Colors are set to the default Black and White.

Step 2 : Click the eyedropper Tool.

Step 3 : Click on a slightly dark portion of the frame. Make sure it is not too dark.

The Foreground Color changes to the color picked.

Step 4 : Click the Background Color.

Step 5 : Click on a light portion of the frame.

Step 6 : The Color Picker will appear click OK.

The Foreground/Background Colors look like this. This will create the gold effect.

Step 7 : Click the Adjustment layer button.

Step 8 : Click on Gradient Map from the pop up.

Step 9 : Since you have already set the Foreground and Background Colors, the Gradient should look like this.

The image looks like this.

The Layers panel looks like this. The Gradient Map1 layer is at the top.

Step 10 : Click the background copy layer which contains the extracted image.

Step 11 : Press CTRL+J. The Background Copy layer is duplicated into Background Copy 2 Layer.

Step 12 : Drag the Background Copy 2 layer to the top.

Step 13 : As soon as you drag the Background Copy 2 Layer to the top all the effects go away. The image looks like this.

Step 14 : Change the Blend Mode to Luminosity.

The image looks like this.

Step 15 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+E. A new composite Layer 1 forms at the top.

Step 16 : Press CTRL+New Layer icon. A new Layer 2 forms under Layer 1.

These are still you Foreground and Background colors.

Step 17 : Press ALT+BACKSPACE. Layer 2 fills with the Foreground Color.

The finished gold image.

Other photoshop tutorials are here

Gradient Fill and Focus

2011-12-13T18:04:00.003+05:30

Would it not be great if you could focus and tinker with light after taking an image with the camera. This is not mere wishful thinking. It can be done easily in Photoshop and it works with most images.

This is a free stock photo.

The same image after focusing light with Photoshop.

The tutorial is here

Gradient Fill and Focus

2011-12-13T17:57:00.003+05:30

Focus and light is important for any image. Photoshop shows you to do it artificially with most images. The lights in an image highlights the focus which you not have been able to catch on camera. Never mind, with photoshop you can change mundane photos to something definitely different. It will seem that you are painting with light.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to jessangel2003

This is the effect I want.

Step 1 : Make sure that the Foreground Color is set to Black

Step 2 : Go to Layer>New Fill Layer>Gradient.

Step 3 : This dialogue box appears. Photoshop even gives it a name.

Click OK.

Step 4 : This dialogue box now opens.

Step 5 : I am using the Foreground to Transparent Gradient.

Step 6 : Change the Style to Radial, Angle to 130 and Scale to 150 (nothing hard and fast about it though). Check Reverse. Align with Layer should be checked already.

Click OK.

The image looks like this.

Step 7 : Click the New Layer icon. A new Layer 1 forms above the Gradient Fill 1 layer. Change the Blend Mode to Soft Light.

Step 8 : Change the Foreground Color to White.

Step 9 : Press b on the keyboard for the Brush Tool. To make the Brush large press ] (right bracket key) and to make it small [ (left bracket key). To make the Brush hard press SHIFT+] and to make it soft SHIFT+[. We will be using a soft brush.

Step 10 : Check in the left top corner of the panel. I am using a Soft Brush. Drop the Opacity of the Brush to 40%.

Step 11 : I have painted over the girl with the brush just a few times. Each time you apply the Brush you make a portion brighter.

Step 12 : Click the new Layer icon. Layer 2 forms. Change the Blend Mode of Layer 2 to Overlay.

Step 13 : Press b for the Brush Tool. Use the same soft brush to paint. It will seem that you are painting with light.

Step 14 : If the light seems a tad too bright, lower the Opacity.

The finished image.

Other photoshop tutorials are here

Darkening Backgrounds

2011-12-11T18:26:00.001+05:30

A dark background helps the eyes to focus on the subject. But this is not always the case and sometimes beyond control. You can darken the background or parts of an image you do want attention to be given to with an adjustment layer. It can be done in any version of photoshop.

This is the effect I will aim for. The original is just below.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to Melyssah6-Stock

Step 1 : Click on the Adjustment Layer button at the bottom of the Layers palette.

Step 2 : Click on Levels.

Step 3 : The Levels 1 Adjustment Layer forms above the Background layer.

Step 4 : Change the Blend Mode to Multiply.

The total image darkens.

Step 5 : Click on layer thumbnail of the Levels 1 layer.

You can see the Levels.

Step 6 : Drag the Black point to the right till the image darkens even more

The image darkens a bit more.

Step 7 : Click on the Layer Mask. When you click you will be able to see a tiny border as above which means it is selected.

Step 8 : The foreground Color should be set to Black.

Step 9 : Click b on the keyboard for the Brush Tool. To make it large press ] (right square bracket) and to make it small (left square bracket). To make it hard press SHIFT+] and to make it soft SHIFT+[. We will be using a soft brush.

Step 10 : In the top panel lower the Opacity of the Brush to 40%. You can lower it more if you want, it will just take more time to complete the job. But it is worthwhile.

Step 11 : With a small, soft brush (you can increase the size when needed) go over the figure twice or thrice. Since the Opacity is set at 40% you are brushing away small increments of the mask. Keep away from edges. Change the size of the brush as needed. Concentrate on the face and skin areas and then on the clothes.

Step 12 : See the Layer Mask. You can see where you have brushed. Do it once more.

The layer mask after more brushing.

Step 13 : Click the New Layer icon. A new layer 1 forms.

Step 14 : The Foreground Color is set to Black.

Step 15 : Press ALT+BACKSPACE to fill with the Foreground Color which is Black in Layer 1.

Step 16 : Press v on the keyboard and then 1. This will lower the Opacity of the layer to 10%.

Step 17 : Click on the Layer Mask in the Levels 1 layer.

Step 18 : Press ALT and drag the mask to Layer 1.

Step 19 : A duplicate of the Mask forms on Layer 1.

The finished image.

Pale Skin with Photoshop

2011-11-23T22:21:00.001+05:30

Doctors can be very concerned at paleness, but some like almost white images with pale skin tones. This can be easily done in Photoshop. There is the hard way and there is the easy way. This is the easy way. This look can be done with Adjustment Layers, which are non-destructive.

I will be using this free stock image for this tutorial. You can download it here

It belongs to Aconyte-Stock

This is the effect I will achieve.

Step 1 : Click the Adjustment Layer button.

Step 2 : Click on Photo Filter from the pop up menu.

Step 3 : The Photo Filter appears.

Step 4 : From the drop down you can see the various photo filters available. I have clicked on Orange. Other filters such as the Cooling Filters or Blue will work just as well. The result will be just a bit different.

Step 5 : The Photo Filter Adjustment Layer appears over the Background Layer.

There is a slight difference in the tone of the image after using the Photo Filter adjustment.

Step 6 : Click the Adjustment Layer button again and click on Hue/Saturation.

Step 7 : The Hue/Saturation Adjustment layer forms.

Step 8 : Drag the Saturation slider to -90.

Step 9 : Click the Adjustment Layer button and click on the Curves.

Step 10 : The Curves Adjust layer appears.

Step 11 : In the Curves dialogue click exactly on the middle.

Step 12 : Keeping SHIFT pressed press the UP ARROW on the keyboard twice.

The image looks like this.

Step 13 : The Curves 1 Adjustment layer is highlighted as this is the Layer we are on. Press SHIFT and click on Photo Filter Adjustment layer.

Step 14 : All the three layers are highlighted.

Step 15 : Press CTRL+G. The three Adjustment Layers are grouped together in Group 1 Layer.

Step 16 : Click the Layer Mask button. A Layer Mask forms on the Group 1 Layer.

The Foreground color should be set to Black which is the default.

Step 17 : Press b on the keyboard to bring up the Brush Tool or click on it. To make the Brush large pres ] (right square bracket) and to make it small [ (left square bracket). To make the Brush soft press SHIFT+[ and to make it hard press SHIFT+]. We will be using a soft brush here.

Step 18 : In the top panel keep the Mode set at Normal, Opacity at 10% and Flow at 5%.

Step 19 : Make the Brush large and paint over the entire image at one go.

Step 20 : Make the Brush small and paint over the hair and the skin areas in one go.

Step 21 : Make the Brush smaller still and paint only over the skin areas excluding the hair.

Step 22 : Zoom into the image so that you can see the eyes and the lips.

Step 23 : In the top panel increase the Opacity of Brush (click the Brush Tool) to 20%.

Step 24 : Make the Brush smaller still and paint over the eyes and lips a number of time.

Step 25 : Note the right pointing arrow on the Group 1 layer.

Step 26 : Click the arrow and it points down. All the layers in the group are also revealed.

Step 27 : Click on the Hue/Saturation layer and click on the thumbnail.

Step 28 : Decrease the Saturation to -70 to bring some of the color of the original image back.

The finished image.

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Motion Blur

2011-11-20T19:40:00.001+05:30

Applying Motion Blur can be done in a jiffy, but what about using it in an unconventional way for a special effect? We can also use Gradients, not the default ones, but those hidden away, but are there.

I have selected this free stock image for this tutorial. You can download it from here

It belongs to fetishfaerie-stock

The image as it will look.

Step 1 : I have used the Quick Selection Tool to separate the girl's image from the Background Layer.You will find the Quick Selection tutorial here if you do know how to use it. You can also use the Pen Tool or the Magnetic Lasso to cut out the girl.

Step 2 : Go to Filter>Blur>Motion Blur.

Step 3 : In the Motion Blur dialogue box set the Angle at 0 and the Distance to the maximum. Click OK.

You have a super duper effect, depending on your image.

Step 4 : Click the New Layer icon and a Layer 1 forms over the Background layer.

Step 5 : Click the elliptical Marquee Tool.

Step 6 : Draw a selection. Nudge it into place by the UP, DOWN, LEFT and RIGHT ARROW keys.

Step 7 : Go to Select>Modify>Feather.

Step 8 : Set a Feather Radius of 100 pixels. Click OK.

Step 9 : Click the Gradient Tool and click on top to open the Gradient Editor.

Step 10 : Click the tiny black arrow and you will see the other Gradients that are hidden from view. I have clicked on Metals.

Step 11 : This dialogue box appears. Click on OK.

Step 12 : The Metal Gradients appear. I have clicked on Steel Blue.

Step 13 : Drag diagonally from top to bottom.

Step 14 : Press CTRL+D to deselect. The image looks like this.

Step 15 : Press the v key on the keyboard and then 5. The Opacity drops to 50%.

Step 16 : Click on the Blend Modes. When it is highlighted, use the DOWN ARROW key to cycle through the Blend Modes. I have selected Overlay.

The finished image.

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Sketch in Photo

2011-11-18T23:08:00.001+05:30

Turning a photo in to a sketch is easy enough. But what if you want to turn part of an image into a sketch. That is easy too.

We will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to *GlamourousAcid-Stock

Step 1 : Duplicate the Background layer by pressing CTRL+J.

Step 2 : I have extracted the figure of the girl from the background and put it on a separate layer -- Layer1 copy. You can use the Magnetic Lasso, Pen Tool or the Quick Selection Tool to extract the figure.

Step 3 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate Layer 1 copy to Layer 1 copy 2. Then desaturate it by pressing CTRL+SHIFT+U.

The image looks like this. Only the girl is desaturated as we have cut her out of the background.

Step 4 : Press CTRL+J. Layer 1 copy 2 duplicates into Layer 1 copy 3. Then press CTRL+I to invert the image.

The girl looks like a negative.

Step 5 : Change the Blend Mode to Color Dodge.

The girl turns white.

Step 6 : Go to Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur.

Step 7 : The Gaussian Blur dialogue box comes up. Drag the slider from the left to the right slowly changing the Radius. You will get different effects for the sketch. Click OK when satisfied.

This is how the sketch looks. You are done.

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Color Sampler in Photoshop and how to use it

2011-11-13T21:55:00.000+05:30

Many of us who use Photoshop fight shy of using the Color Sampler Tool to determine the Black, Grey and White points in an image for color correction as it seems to be confusing. It also leaves numbers on the image which you think you can't remove. But it is not difficult to use once you know how. You can color correct an image in a breeze with the Color Sampler Tool. And, something more.

I will be using this image. You will find it here

The color corrected image. Let me show you how to do it.

Step 1 : Depending on the version of Photoshop you are using you can see where the Color Sampler Tool is found. Click it.

Step 2 : Examine your image first. See the Light and Shadow in it and the areas in between. I have clicked the Black point on the figure on the chest which is in Black. I have clicked the Grey point at the left and the White point on a bright portion of the cheek. As you click the figures 1, 2, 3 appear. This is what some find hard to get rid off after using them. I will show how to get rid of it later.

Step 3 : Click the Adjustment Layer button.

Step 4 : Click on Levels from the pop up menu.

Step 5 : The Levels dialogue box appears. On my version of Photoshop the Black, Grey and White eyedroppers are on the left. The top one is the Black eyedropper.

Step 6 : Click the Black eyedropper.

Step 7 : Click on the Black point set earlier.

Step 8 : Click the Grey eyedropper.

Step 9 : Click with the Grey eyedropper on the grey point.

Step 10 : Click the White eyedropper.

Step 11 : Click the White point with the White eyedropper.

Step 12 : The image has now been color corrected. You can see the three points in the image 1,2,3 which have to be removed.

Step 13 : Click the Color Sampler again. Note the Clear button in the top panel. Just click it to make the 1,2,3 disappear.

The basic color correction has been made.

Step 14 : Click on the Background Layer.

Step 15 : Pres CTRL+J to duplicate the Background Layer into Background copy.

Step 16 : Go to Filter>Blur Gaussian Blur.

Step 17 : In the Gaussian Blur dialogue box I have set the Radius to 15 as I am using a high resolution image. Click OK.

What this does is it blurs the entire image. However I want the blur only on the skin which has been smoothed out with the blur getting rid of pimples.

Step 18 : Click off the eye icon on the Background copy layer.

Step 19 : Go over to the Channels palette.

Step 20 : Now we have to examine the channels Red, Green and Blue one by one. I have clicked on the Red channel.

The skin appears to be smooth.

Step 21 : Click on the Green channel.

Some of the blemishes on the skin can be made out, so this channel will not do.

Step 22 : Click on the Blue channel.

This is how the Blue channel looks. It will not do at all.

Step 23 : Click back on the Red channel. We will be using it.

Step 24 : With the Red channel selected, CTRL+CLICK on the thumbnail of the RGB channel.

Step 25 : A selection of marching ants appear on the image as soon as you CTRL+CLICK.

Step 26 : Click on the RGB channel.

Step 27 : Click back on the Layers palette and click on the eye icon of the Background copy.

The marching ants are still visible.

Step 28 : Click the Layer Mask button. A Layer mask forms next to the layer thumbnail on Background copy layer.

Since we have used Gaussian Blur on this layer, the image appears blurred.

Step 29 : Press v on the keyboard and press 8 0n the keyboard. The Opacity drops to 80%. It is not hard and fast that you reduce opacity to 80%. It can be more or less depending on what you want.

Dropping the Opacity makes the eyes and lips clearer. The skin also does not look plastic. It looks normal though the blemishes are less noticeable.

Step 30 : Click in the Blend Modes. Use the Down and Up arrow keys to cycle through the Blend Modes. I find that Soft Light appeals to me. Some may choose Overlay also. It depends on you.

This is how the image looks.

Step 31 : Click on the Layer Mask to select it.

Step 32 : Click on the Brush Tool. Lower its Opacity in the top panel to 25%. To make the Brush large press ] (right bracket key) and to make it small [ (left bracket key). To make the Brush Hard press SHIFT+] and to make it soft SHIFT+[. We will be using a soft brush.

You can also set the Size and Hardness from the top panel by clicking where the arrow points to.

Step 33 : The Foreground Color should be set to Black.

Step 34 : Paint with the Brush to reveal the eyes, lips, teeth and parts of the image that you want to be remain sharp. Note that you are painting with 25% Opacity so you may have to go over portions a number of times.

The finished image.

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Lens Blur and Depth Map

2011-10-30T22:10:00.000+05:30

Remember the Gaussian Blur? It is in photohshop for a long time. A new addition in later editions of Photoshop CS is the Lens Blur. The Gaussian Blur has its uses, but Lens Blur givesmore leeway. Learn to create a Depth Map. You can use it to keep something in focus selectively and blur the background.

I will be using this free stock image which you will find here

It belongs to jessangel2003

This is the effect I will be aiming for.

Step 1 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate the Background Layer to Layer 1.

Step 2 : Switch over from the Layers palette to the Channels pallete and click the Add New Channel button at the bottom.

Step 3 : An Alpha 1 Channel forms below the RGB, Red, Green, Blue channels.

The image turns completely Black.

Step 4 : Click on the eye icon of the RGB channel.

The image acquires a Red Mask. This is what you see.

Step 5 : Click the Brush Tool. At the top let the Mode remain at Normal and lower the Opacity to 50%. Flow is set at 100%.

Step 6 : Switch the Foreground Color to White by pressing x on the keyboard.

Step 7 : To increase the Brush size press ] (right square bracket) and to decrease it [ (left square bracket). To make the Brush hard press SHIFT+] and to make it soft SHIFT+[. We will use a soft Brush.

Step 8 : As you paint the Red Mask gets lighter as you are painting at 50% opacity. I have just painted over the face just once. You have to brush a number of times to make the eyes and lips visible and some part of the torso.

Step 9 : I have gone over the face particularly the eyes and nose and lips more than once to paint the Mask away little by little since you are painting only at 50% opacity.

Step 10 : Click on the eye icon of the RGB channel.

Step 11 : You will be able to see the portions of the Mask you have painted away. It is not even since you will invariably paint more than other areas in some parts.

Step 12 : Click on the RGB channel.

Step 13 : Click back on the Layers palette.

Step 14 : Go to Filter>Blur>Lens Blur.

Step 15 : The Lens Blur dialogue box fills the screen. Look at the right panel for the controls.

Preview is checked by default. Check it if it is not. In Source of the Depth Map change it to Alpha1 created earlier in the Channels palette. Check the Invert. It is not checked by default. Keep the Shape at 6 (Hexagon). If you drag the Radius slider to the left or right, you will be able to control how much blurring you want.

Step 16 : I am dragging the Radius down to 17. See what suits your image or the effect you want. The effects you apply will be visible in the large preview window at the left. Click OK when satisfied.

The finished image. The face is in sharp focus, but so much the body or hair and other details.

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If you notice to cogs turning after you click the link, it is normal. It means the tutorial is loading. It will take just a while to load. That's all.

Pastel Look

2011-10-23T16:52:00.000+05:30

A soft pastel look is liked very much by some. You can apply it as a special effect to your images. You just need to use some layers, Curves and Gaussian Blur and a thing or two to achieve this effect in Photoshop.

Step 1 : I will be using this free stock image, which you will find here

It belongs to

*Storms-Stock

This is the effect I will create.

Step 2 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate the Background Layer to Layer 1. Press CTRL+SHIFT+U to desaturate Layer1.

Step 3 : The image is desaturated.

Step 4 : Click the Add New Fill or Adjustment Layer button.

Step 5 : Click on Curves from the pop up menu.

Step 6 : The Curves 1 Layer forms. The Curves dialogue box is on top.

Step 7 : In the Curves dialogue box change the Default to Cross Process (RGB).

Step 8 : My image looks like this.

Step 9 : I am changing the Blend Mode to Soft Light. Hard Light, Screen and even Color also works for this image. You will have to see which Blend Mode you like.

Step 10 : My image looks like this.

Step 11 : I am lowering the Opacity to 75%.

Step 12 : My image looks like this.

Step 13 : Click the New Fill or Adjustment Layer button and click on Gradient Map.

Step 14 : Click where the arrow points to reveal the default Gradients. You will find may more if you click the small black arrow. We will be using the default set.

Step 15 : I am clicking on Blue, Red, Yellow. You can also choose something else.

The image looks like this.

Step 16 : Press SHIFT and click on the Blend Mode which will be highlighted.

Step 17 : Keeping SHIFT pressed press the DOWN ARROW to cycle through the Blend Modes. When you reach the last Blend Mode press the UP ARROW to cycle back. It is never possible to tell which Blend Mode will work. Just cycle through them and see what you like. I have chosen Darken for this image.

Step 18 : Press the v key on the keyboard and press 5. The Opacity lowers to 50% for the Gradient Map 1 layer.

My image looks like this.

Step 19 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+E to make a composite Layer2.

Step 20 : Press CTRL+J to make a new layer - Layer 2 copy.

Step 21 : Go to Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur.

Step 22 : I am setting a Radius of 8 in the Gaussian Blur dialogue box. You can set something lesser or higher depending on your image. Click OK.

Step 23 : The image is slightly blurred, but details can still be made out easily.

Step 24 : Click the Add Layer Mask button and a Layer Mask forms on Layer 2 copy.

Step 25 : Press the b key on the keyboard to select the Brush Tool.

The Foreground Color should be set to Black.

Step 26 : Press [ (left square bracket) to decrease the size of the brush and ] to increase it.

Step 27 : In the top panel lower the Opacity to 20% or so. The Mode and Flow remains set to Normal.

Step 28: Since the Brush is set to a low Opacity go over the eyes, lips and face a number of times still they are clearly visible, then the rest of the body if you wish.

Look at the Layer Mask, you will find the portions that you have painted in gray, since the Opacity of the Brush is low.

The image looks like this.

Step 29 : I am changing the Blend Mode to Screen.

The finished image.
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Vintage Look with Photoshop

2011-10-17T22:33:00.000+05:30

Sometimes you may want to give a vintage look to images. You can do so easily with Photoshop with just a few of the wonderful tools that it now has. Unlock the secrets of the Black & White Adjustment Layer, use Gaussian Blur yet keep certain details sharp. Tint an image to your liking. Changing an image to B&W takes a single step, but it appears flat without color. How do we overcome this and yet make the image look like a vintage one. Nothing is difficult.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to jessangel2003

The easiest way to change an image to black and white is to press CTRL+SHIFT+U, but we will not do so.

This is the effect I will achieve.

Step 1 : Click the Black and White Adjustment Layer button. There is only the Background Layer in the Layers palette.

Step 2 : The Black and White adjustment Layer forms over the Background Layer. In the Black & White dialogue box note the small hand where I have asked you to click.

Step 3 : Clicking it shows what it does. You have to click and drag in the image after clicking this button.

The image looks like this without dragging the slider.

Step 4 : Hover the cursor over any part of the image. The cursor changes into an eyedropper.

Step 5 : If you left click the mouse button and hold, the eyedropper changes into a small white hand with a two-headed arrow.

This are the default positions of the Reds, Yellows, Greens, Cyans, Blues and Magentas sliders. The total of this adds up to 300. After moving the sliders, it is not essential that the sliders add up to to 300.

Step 6 : Now I am pressing the left mouse button and dragging. What happens? The Reds slider begins to move. How do I know that it is the Reds slider moving, darkening or lightening the portion where I am moving the cursor?

Step 7 : Look int the Black & White. The Reds slider has moved of its own accord. This is the secret of using it. As you click and drag different parts of the images, the sliders will move forwards or backwards, darkening or lightening different parts of the image.

Step 8 : As I drag the slider to the left I am darkening the cloth at the top and bottom.

Step 9 : The Cyans sliders have moved to - 44 from 60, its default position.

Step 10 : I am dragging the slider over the hair to the right.

Step 11 : The Yellows slider has moved to 130 from 60. Now I think you have got the hang of using the Black and White. Just keep dragging in different parts of the image you want to darken or lighten.

This is how my black and white image looks like after dragging the sliders of B & W.

This is how the Black & White dialogue box looks. It is not necessary that your Black and White Adjustment will look the same.

Step 12 : Click the arrow at the bottom of of the pallete to return to the Adjustment List as it says.

Step 13 : Now click the Hue/Saturation button.

Step 14 : A Hue/Saturation layer forms over the Black & White Layer. Check the Colorize in Hue/Saturation.

Step 15 : By default whichever image you use, this will be the Hue get when you check the Colorize.

Step 16 : As you drag the Hue slider the color changes. I have stopped at +35.

The image acquires this sepia tone.

Step 17 : Dragging the Saturation increases or decreases the saturation. The slider reads +18.

Step 18 : Dragging the Lightness slider darkens or lightens the image. I have moved it to +5. NOTE : None of these values are absolute. It will vary according to your taste and the image you are working on.

My image looks like this.

Step 19 : I am dropping the Opacity of the Hue/Saturation Layer to 50%. You can lower it to taste.

My image looks like this.

Step 20 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+E to form a composite Layer 1.

Step 21 : Go to Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur.

Step 22 : In the Gaussian Blur dialogue box I have set a Radius of 3. Click OK.

The Gaussian Blur is applied to the image.

Step 23 : Click the elliptical Marquee Tool.

Step 24 : Draw a selection like this. What I intend to do is to blur the edges.

Step 25 : Go to Select>Modify>Feather.

Step 26 : I have set a Feather Radius of 100 pixels. You can set more, you can set less. Click OK

Step 27 : Click the Add Layer Mask button. A Layer Mask forms on the composite Layer 1.

The image still looks like this.

Step 28 : Press CTRL+I to inverse the Layer Mask.

Step 29 : The center of the image looks sharp again, while the sides have blurred.

Step 30 : I am reducing the Opacity of Layer 1 to 80%.

The image looks like this.

Step 31 : CTRL+CLICK the Layer Mask.

Step 32 : A selection forms.

Step 33 : Click the Exposure Adjustment Layer button.

Step 34 : The Exposure 1 layer forms. The Exposure dialogue opens at the top with the default settings.

Step 35 : Drag the Exposure slider to increase the light and use the Offset slider to offset it.

The image looks like this.

Step 36 : Click the Return to adjustment list.

Step 37 : Click on Curves Adjustment.

Step 38 : Curves 1 Layer forms. In the Curves dialogue box click with the cursor exactly in the middle.

Step 39 : Press SHIFT and press the UP ARROW just once.

The finished image.

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Lab Color and Levels - Making Colors Pop

2011-10-10T22:06:00.000+05:30

We will see the power of Levels after turning an image into Lab Color. You can make colors really pop with very little effort.

I have opened this free stock image which you will find here

It belongs to platen

This is the effect I will achieve in just a few steps.

Step 1 : Go to Image>Mode>Lab Color to change the image into Lab Color.

Step 2 : Click in the Channels and you will notice the Lightness, a and b channels.

Step 3 : Click back on the Layers palette.

Step 4 : Press ALT and click on the Levels icon.

Step 5 : This dialogue box pops up. Photoshop gives it a name - Levels 1. Click OK.

Step 6 : The Levels 1 Layer forms. Click on Auto in Levels.

You will notice a slight change in the colors in the image when you click the Auto button.

Step 7 : Click on the 'a' channel to select it.

Step 8 : Place the cursor in the first box shown.

Step 9 : Press SHIFT and press the UP ARROW six times. The 0 in the box changes to 50 and the Black slider moves forward.

The image looks like this. Don't worry about it.

Step 10 : Press the TAB key twice. The box at the right is highlighted.

Step 11 : Press SHIFT and DOWN ARROW six times. The White slider moves forward.

The image looks like this. It looks much nicer already.

Step 12 : Now click and select the b channel.

Step 13 : Press the cursor in the left box and press SHIFT and UP ARROW four times.

Step 14 : Press TAB twice. The right box is highlighted. Press SHIFT and press the DOWN ARROW four times.

There is nothing hard about pressing the SHIFT and UP and DOWN arrows. Just remember to press the equal number. It is not necessary that you press the UP and DOWN ARROWS in a channel 'a' 6 times and 4 times in channel 'b'. It will depend on your image. But the equal number of times is important. That is all.

Curves Adjustment Layers Secrets

2011-10-09T21:55:00.000+05:30

When Brightness and Contrast does not work, turn to Levels. When Levels does not work try Curves. This is about Curves Adjustment Layers and how to do it correctly. We also know of the classic S curve, but sometimes this may not work. How do do you lighten and darken small parts of an image? Turn to Curves. Here we will use Curves Adjustment Layers which are non-destructive as opposed to Curves. Here we will unlock the secrets of using it.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to skydancer-stock

Using the secrets of Curves Adjustment Layers I have brightened the lights without making it look unnatural. Just follow along to be able to do the same.

Step 1 : Click the Adjustment Layer Button.

Step 2 : Click Curves from the pop up.

Step 3 : The Curves 1 Layer and the Curves dialogue box appears.

Step 4 : Click the tiny arrow and click on Expanded View. You should always use the Expanded View.

The Expanded View.

Step 5 : ALT+CLICK inside the Curves and it will switch between the small squares and large squares. Always use the large squares view.

Step 6 : Click the Eye Dropper Tool.

Step 7 : I have CTRL+CLICKED on a light portion of the image.

Step 8 : As you CTRL+CLICK different parts of the image a bouncing ball will appear on the diagonal in the middle.

Step 9 : A black dot appears on the diagonal when you CTRL+CLICK.

Step 10 : I have CTRL+CLICKED at three places on the bridge of the nose where the light falls.

Step 11 : The last point clicked appears as a Black dot and the two earlier as White.

Step 12 : Press the + (plus) sign on the keyboard to cycle upwards till the topmost point.

Step 13 : Press the - (minus) sign on the keyboard to cycle downwards through the dots.

Step 14 : Press SHIFT and click on the points and all are selected. Press minus to deselect.

Step 15 : I have clicked on the midpoint.

Step 16 : I have pressed the Up Arrow key 5 times which moves the middle dot up a little at a time.

Step 17 : Press SHIFT and Press UP arrow to move the point up in larger quantum. Use the arrow keys to move the dots up, down, left and right when needed.

Step 18 : Use the Reset button at the bottom if you want to clear the points and begin again.

Step 19 : I am CTRL+CLICKING a point on the forehead.

Step 20 : A black dot appears on the diagonal.

Step 21 : I am CTRL+CLICKING a second point on the nose.

Step 22 : The second point clicked appears as a Black dot, while the other point turns White. It means the Black dot is selected and the White dot is unselected.

Step 23 : I have clicked on the top of the lips.

Step 24 : The point appears as a black dot between the two other points, which are now unselected.

Step 25 : I have pressed Shift and clicked on all three points to select them all.

Step 26 : I have not moved the points as yet. The image looks like this.

Step 27 : With all the three dots selected I am pressing SHIFT and UP ARROW twice. All three points move upwards together. I could have moved them downwards too. But here it needs to be moved up. I could have moved them in small amounts with only the UP arrow key without pressing SHIFT.

The light on the nose increases. The eyes which were in shadow can be made out now.

Step 28 : I have CTRL+CLICKED on the eye.

Step 29 : A fourth Black point appears near the end of the diagonal.

Step 30 : I am pressing SHIFT+UP ARROW. I could have used the ARROW key without the SHIFT also.

Look at the eye now. It is fully visible. The lighting has increased but in a very controlled way and without looking unnatural.

Step 31 : I have CTRL+CLICKED on just above the eye.

Step 32 : A fifth black dot forms.

Step 33 : I have press the + sign to select the dot immediately above.

Step 34 : Press SHIFT+UP ARROW. You can also press the arrow key without pressing SHIFT to move the dot up (or down) in smaller increments.

Look at the image. The image has more light without looking unnatural.

This is how the image looks. This is how you should use Curves. I have unlocked its secrets. Have fun
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Content Aware and Protect Skin Tone

2011-10-05T20:45:00.001+05:30

Content Aware in a feature of Photoshop 4 and above. Content Aware seems magical when applied. One of the features of Content Aware is Protect Skin Tone function. This is just to make you aware of it. It works fine with some images, but should not be overdone. It can be done in just a few steps.

This is a free stock image which you will find it here

It belongs to kirill7117

You can see that there is a lot of space on the left as compared to the right. If you wanted to decrease it, all you have to do is use the Crop Tool. But here is where you can also use Content Aware.

Step 1 : Get rid of the Lock in the Background Layer by dragging it to the Bin at the bottom. The Layer is automatically renamed Layer 0.

Step 2 : Go to Edit>Content-Aware Scale.

Step 3 : In the top panel click the 'Protect skin tones' icon.

A selection has already formed around the image.

Step 4 : Drag the middle handle at the sides inwards. I have dragged the left middle handle. The figure remains unchanged.

I have dragged the middle handle almost half the way. Remember that too much of a good thing is not good. If you drag too far, distortions might appear. The 'Protect skin tone' has left the figure untouched and compressed the left side of the image.

Step 5 : I have now dragged the middle handle of the left side. The figure remains intact. Only the background has been compressed, but very unnaturally.

Step 6 : Press Enter and the Content Aware is applied. You will see this progress bar.

This is how the image look after applying Content Aware with Protect skin tone. The sides are all squished up and does not look natural.

This is way overdone and not the way to do it.

Dragging the sides inward a little bit looks better.

Press ENTER for the transformation to be applied.

Lastly apply a crop.

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Adjustment Layers -- Desaturated look

2011-10-01T03:43:00.001+05:30

You can create a deliberately desaturated look in your images with Photoshop. It is a question of using Adjustment Layers and Blend Modes. It can be done quickly and without fuss.

I will be using this free stock image. You will find it here

It belongs to Sabyna

This is the effect I will create.

Step 1 : Press CTRL+J to duplicate the Background Layer into Layer 1. Press CTRL+SHIFT+U to desaturate Layer 1.

Step 2 : Change the Blend Mode to Soft Light.

The image looks like this.

Step 3 : Click on Vibrance from the pop up menu.

Step 4 : The Vibrance 1 layer forms. In the Vibrance dialogue I have moved the Saturation slider to -25 and Vibrance to -35.

The image looks like this.

Step 5 : Click on the Create New Fill or Adjustment Layer button. Click on Hue/Saturation. In the Hue/Saturation I have moved the Hue to +9, Saturation to -25 and Lightness to +21.

The image looks like this.

Step 6 : Press CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+E to make a composite Layer 2.

Step 7 : Press CTRL+U to bring up the Hue/Saturation again. but not as an Adjustment Layer. I have put Hue at 49, Saturation at 20 and Lightness at 0. Click OK

The image looks like this.

Step 8 : Press v on the keyboard and then 5. The Opacity of Layer 2 drops to 50%.

The image looks like this.

Step 9 : Change the Blend Mode of Layer 2 to Soft Light.

The image looks like this.

Step 10 : Press CTRL+J to make a Layer 2 copy.

Step 11 : Go to Filter>Other >High Pass.

Step 12 : Set Radius in High Pass to around 15. Click OK.

Step 13 : Add another Vibrance Layer. Vibrance 2 forms. Lower the Saturation to -25 and Vibrance to -30.

The finished image.

Adjustment Layers for tweaking complexion

2011-09-29T15:42:00.000+05:30

If you wish to carry out subtle tweaks to the complexion of the subject in your image without affecting the rest of the background the best way to proceed is to use Adjustment Masks. As its name says, these Adjustment Layers have Masks which you can manipulate to give an effect to a certain area and not the whole.

This is the effect I will achieve. The original image is below.

I will be using this free stock image which you will find here

It belongs to stockmichelle

Step 1 : To begin, click the Create New Fill or adjustment Layer button.

Step 2 : Click Black & White from the pop up menu.

Step 3 : The Black & White Adjustment Layer forms. At the top click the Auto button.

The image looks like this.

Step 4 : Change the Blend Mode to Soft Light.

The image looks like this.

ALT+CLICK the eye icon on the Background Layer to see the before and after effect. You can do this at all stages.

Step 5 : Click the Create New Fill or Adjustment Layer button and click on Color Balance.

Step 6 : The Color Balance 1 Layer forms. The Color Balance Adjustments are on top. Note that it is set to Midtones by default.

Step 7 : I have dragged the Red to +38, Green to +23 and Yellow to -13. These are not absolute values. They will vary from image to image. First study your image and determine which tones you will affect, then drag the sliders to achieve that effect. This is the rule of the thumb.

Step 8 : I have now clicked the Highlights and dragged the Red slider to +24, Green to +26 and Yellow to -2.

Step 9 : Lastly in the Highlights I have decreased the Red to -5, Green to -10 and Blue to -6.

The image looks like this. ALT+CLICK the eye icon on the Background layer to see the difference.

Make sure the Foreground/Background Colors are set to Black/White. If not press x and d on the keyboard to restore the default.

Step 10 : Click the Brush Tool.

Step 11 : Click in the top panel to open the Brush controls. Set the Hardness to 0. This makes the Brush soft. To increase the size of the Brush press ] (right square bracket) and to decrease it [ (left square bracket).

Step 12 : Make the Brush large and paint the background to reveal it.

Zoom into the image and paint portions left out. Use the Space Bar to navigate around the image.

Step 13 : Make the Brush small and paint between the arms.

Look at the Mask. You will be able to see where you have painted. It appears in white.

The image looks like this.

Step 14 : Click the Create New Fill or Adjustment Layer button and click on Curves from the pop up.

Step 15 : The Curves 1 Layer forms. The Curves dialogue box is on top.

Step 16 : In the diagonal in the Curves click two points on the top and bottom. The top of the diagonal represents the light in the image and the bottom the shadows. The midpoint is the highlights. Drag the upward point slightly upwards and that at the bottom down so that the diagonal forms a gentle 's' curve. Note that you are on the RGB channel.

Step 17 : Next click the Red channel.

Step 18 : I have again clicked two points and made a shallower curve. If you drag the top point down you will add green and if you pull up you will add red.

Step 19 : Next go the Green Channel. If you pull the top point down you will increase the red and up will increase the Greens. I have increased the Greens slightly. I have also dragged the bottom of the diagonal down slightly.

Step 20 : In the Blue channel I have dragged the top point up to add a little Blue I have also dragged the bottom point down slightly.

Step 21 : Press ALT and drag the Layer Mask of the Color Balance Layer to the Curves 1 layer.

Step 22 : This dialogue box pops up. Click on Yes.

.The Layer Mask on Curves 1 layer has been replaced with the one on Color Balance 1 layer. It saved you time having to use the Brush on the Mask.

The image looks like this.

Step 23 : Click off the eye icons of Curves 1 and Color Balance 1 layers. Click on the Layer Mask of Black & White 1 layer.

Step 24 : With the Foreground Color set to Black paint over the dress.

Step 25 : Click on the eye icon on Color Balance 1 layer.

Step 26 : Paint the dress again with the Brush.

Step 27 : Click on the eye icon of Curves 1 layer.

Step 28 : Paint over the dress again.

The finished image. ALT+CLICK the eye icon on the Background layer to see the difference. Only the complexion has been affected as also some parts of the background which were not isolated by masking.

Other photoshop tutorials are here