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Contrast masking-tutorial
Applying a contrast mask in Photoshop
1- Open photo in an editing program that supports layers.
2- Duplicate the background layer.
3- Desaturate the new layer.
Image menu > Adjustments > Desaturate
4- Invert the layer.
Image menu > Adjustments > Invert
5- Apply a Gaussian Blur.
Filter menu > Blur > Gaussian Blur (set at a radius between 20 and 30 pixels). Adjustments may need to be made to the amount of Gaussian blur used to avoid a halo effect where bright and dark areas meet.
6- Select Overlay from the layers palette.
Once the contrast mask is applied, its intensity can be adjusted by changing the opacity of the layer. You can also fine tune by erasing portions of the mask. Do any additional editing, such as sharpening, before saving the image.
See larger view of original | See larger view of final image
