Softening an image in Photoshop 7

[ryme-intrinseca]

Please can someone tell me if it is possible to 'soften' an image using Photoshop 7? In particular, I want to soften a portrait image, to make the edges less harsh and give it a more 'intimate' feel, if that makes sense.

Thank you.

[Patrick]

Re: Softening an image in Photoshop 7

Please can someone tell me if it is possible to 'soften' an image using Photoshop 7? In particular, I want to soften a portrait image, to make the edges less harsh and give it a more 'intimate' feel, if that makes sense.

Thank you.

My favorite method is to create duplicate layer, with that layer selected apply Gaussian blur until the image is very blurred, now lower to opacity of that layer until you get the affect you want.
Experimenting with the amount of blur in combination with opacity of the layer .

The route to Gaussian blur is Filters>blur>Gaussian blur.

To make a duplicate layer Go to layer drag the thumbnail to the symbol like a sheet of paper with the corner folded at the foot on the layer panel.

All very simple , Like me.

Patrick

[ryme-intrinseca]

Re: Softening an image in Photoshop 7

Brill, Gaussian blur - of course, why didn't I think of that?

Thanks ever so much!

[Patrick]

Re: Softening an image in Photoshop 7

Brill, Gaussian blur - of course, why didn't I think of that?

Thanks ever so much!

You can refine the effect on a portrait using the eraser at a soft brush at about 50%, erase the eyes and mouth on the blurred layer. the sharp layer shows through and gives the eyes that extra sparkle.

Patrick

[ryme-intrinseca]

Re: Softening an image in Photoshop 7

You can refine the effect on a portrait using the eraser at a soft brush at about 50%, erase the eyes and mouth on the blurred layer. the sharp layer shows through and gives the eyes that extra sparkle.

Patrick

Ooh, even better! Thank you.

[coupekid]

Re: Softening an image in Photoshop 7

My favorite method is to create duplicate layer, with that layer selected apply Gaussian blur until the image is very blurred, now lower to opacity of that layer until you get the affect you want.
Experimenting with the amount of blur in combination with opacity of the layer .

The route to Gaussian blur is Filters>blur>Gaussian blur.

To make a duplicate layer Go to layer drag the thumbnail to the symbol like a sheet of paper with the corner folded at the foot on the layer panel.

All very simple , Like me.

Patrick

I always use Gaussian Blur myself, but never considered applying to a duplicate layer and reduce the opacity.

Thanks Patrick, this is something I will have to have a go at as well!

[Patrick]

Re: Softening an image in Photoshop 7

I always use Gaussian Blur myself, but never considered applying to a duplicate layer and reduce the opacity.

Thanks Patrick, this is something I will have to have a go at as well!

The beauty of this method is the underlying sharp image showing through the blurred one. In fact I often sharpen the picture before creating the blurred layer.

This technique can be very effective on some landscape and even the odd interier shot.
Mike Cork who joined us on the Oxford trip and posted some infra red shots, has a wonderful picture of a chair with a straw had hung on the back, a very simple picture but with this technique applied its gives very subtle tones, quite beautiful.

Patrick