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Post-Processing Digital Images
Using Layer Mask
Sep 24, 2015 15:25:32   #
gemlenz Loc: Gilbert Arizona
 
Here's an example of using a layer mask with a gradient, and Screen blending mode without having to use HDR processing. So the image looks more natural.

In this case of this RAW file the sky was overexposed and the building and foreground were underexposed. So I created 2 copies in LR and exposed one for the sky and one for the building. Then I opened them as layers in Photoshop and used a layer mask with a gradient. You could use the Quick Selection tool, but it's difficult to get a clean selection. I believe this method looks more natural. Then I used blending mode Screen to improve the exposure.

Yes, there are other ways to do this, but if I didn't tell you, would you think the results was Shopped?

original
original...
(Download)

processed
processed...
(Download)

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Sep 24, 2015 16:57:19   #
Treepusher Loc: Kingston, Massachusetts
 
Nicely done. There's deeper color to the processed shot, and hard to tell it's been messed with, which makes it perfect!

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Sep 25, 2015 05:39:53   #
OnDSnap Loc: NE New Jersey
 
I too have needed to use this method a few times, nicely done...

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Sep 25, 2015 06:17:15   #
Billyspad Loc: The Philippines
 
Now try another duplicated layer of your second image with Multiply blend mode at 50% opacity. Gives it some depth.
And ya did all that and left the cable in Mr Lenz!!!!
Back of the Photoshop class facing the wall please.

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Sep 25, 2015 09:37:41   #
dannac Loc: 60 miles SW of New Orleans
 
Billyspad wrote:

And ya did all that and left the cable in Mr Lenz!!!!
Back of the Photoshop class facing the wall please.


:D :D :D

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Sep 25, 2015 10:43:12   #
dpullum Loc: Tampa Florida
 
We (meaning me but spreading the guilt) all forget some of these "tricks" to improve our images. Thanks for the kick in the pants to activate memory.

gemlenz discusses Screen blending mode without having to use HDR processing. For those who do not have HDR give away of the day has HDR Project Pro 2 for FREE.
http://www.giveawayoftheday.com/


If they have not changed the registration/s# be sure to follow the directions realizing that it is translated from German. Just do what the software company says... not what you think the say. Activation of the program will then work.

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Sep 25, 2015 13:37:25   #
gemlenz Loc: Gilbert Arizona
 
Ok I did as you suggested and also removed the cable. I think the blended layer makes the shadows look underexposed though. If I slide the shadows slider in LR to the right it starts to look better. I remember it was a bright sunny day that day.
Billyspad wrote:
Now try another duplicated layer of your second image with Multiply blend mode at 50% opacity. Gives it some depth.
And ya did all that and left the cable in Mr Lenz!!!!
Back of the Photoshop class facing the wall please.

with blended layer
with blended layer...
(Download)

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Sep 25, 2015 19:33:33   #
Billyspad Loc: The Philippines
 
gemlenz wrote:
Ok I did as you suggested and also removed the cable. I think the blended layer makes the shadows look underexposed though. If I slide the shadows slider in LR to the right it starts to look better. I remember it was a bright sunny day that day.


See my man worth the effort. Monitors vary so how you get the result does not matter. But its better for sure.
No idea on LR I have it hate it with a vengeance so do everything in Photoshop.

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Sep 26, 2015 05:54:22   #
OnDSnap Loc: NE New Jersey
 
Billyspad wrote:
See my man worth the effort. Monitors vary so how you get the result does not matter. But its better for sure.
No idea on LR I have it hate it with a vengeance so do everything in Photoshop.


I agree Billy, a simple layer mask and Gemlenz could take care of the shadows he feels were effected by the new layer.

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Sep 26, 2015 07:02:36   #
Billyspad Loc: The Philippines
 
OnDSnap wrote:
I agree Billy, a simple layer mask and Gemlenz could take care of the shadows he feels were effected by the new layer.


LR just does not cut it as photo editor other than for very simple things.

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Sep 26, 2015 13:04:20   #
OnDSnap Loc: NE New Jersey
 
Billyspad wrote:
LR just does not cut it as photo editor other than for very simple things.


Agree, It's Okay for quick and simple editing, but then I'm so used to doing most of mine with Camera Raw,if I can't with that, then into PS for more complex editing and masking etc.

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Post-Processing Digital Images
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