Increase Blur to Sharpen Better? - Photoshop Trick
TLDRThis tutorial introduces a unique Photoshop sharpening technique that paradoxically uses blurring to enhance image clarity. The method involves duplicating the background layer, applying a vivid light blend mode, inverting it, and then using Gaussian blur to sharpen edges. The video compares this 'vivid light' technique with the traditional high pass method, demonstrating that vivid light can provide more consistent detail enhancement. A free action is provided for ease of use, and the tutorial encourages experimentation with both methods to determine which works best for different images.
Takeaways
- ๐ฒ The video introduces a unique Photoshop technique where blurring an image can actually make it appear sharper.
- ๐ The video is set to be released by 8:30 PM on the same day it was recorded.
- ๐จ The presenter is from 'Unmashed' and the channel is called 'Picks and Perfect'.
- ๐ The technique involves making two copies of the background layer and applying different blend modes to them.
- ๐ The 'Vivid Light' blend mode is used in conjunction with inverting the layer to create a sharpening effect.
- ๐ A Gaussian Blur is applied to the top layer to define edges, with the value being adjustable for different images.
- ๐ The edges become more pronounced as the blur increases, but care must be taken to avoid overly thick edges that can create halos.
- ๐ก The 'Overlay' blend mode is particularly effective with gray, hiding it and enhancing contrast in darker and lighter areas.
- ๐ ๏ธ The video provides a free action for Photoshop that automates the sharpening process.
- ๐ A comparison is made between the 'Vivid Light' method and the traditional 'High Pass' sharpening method, showing differences in detail preservation.
- ๐ญ The action allows for user input to adjust the Gaussian Blur value, making it versatile for various images.
- ๐๏ธ It's possible to fine-tune the sharpening by using layer masks to selectively apply the effect to certain areas of the image.
Q & A
What is the main technique discussed in the video?
-The main technique discussed in the video is a Photoshop trick where blurring an image can actually make it appear sharper.
What is the name of the channel presenting the video?
-The channel presenting the video is called 'unmashed from picks and perfect'.
What blend modes are mentioned in the video that are used for contrast?
-The blend modes mentioned in the video for contrast are Overlay, Soft Light, and Vivid Light.
How does inverting a layer affect the image in the context of this technique?
-Inverting a layer in this technique changes the contrast, making it possible to sharpen details when using certain blend modes and blurring.
What is the purpose of converting the layer to 'Smart Filters' before applying Gaussian Blur?
-Converting the layer to 'Smart Filters' allows for the blur values to be adjusted later if needed, providing flexibility in the editing process.
What is the recommended initial value for the Gaussian Blur when applying this technique?
-The recommended initial value for the Gaussian Blur is four, although it can be adjusted depending on the specific image and desired effect.
How does changing the blend mode to Overlay affect the sharpening process?
-Changing the blend mode to Overlay helps in sharpening the image by hiding the gray areas and enhancing the edges, which become more pronounced as the blur increases.
What is the name given to this sharpening technique demonstrated in the video?
-The sharpening technique is referred to as 'Lab Sharpening' in the video.
How does the 'Vivid Light' method compare to the 'High Pass' method in terms of detail preservation?
-The 'Vivid Light' method tends to preserve more details within the image compared to the 'High Pass' method, which sometimes ignores certain areas.
What is the free action provided in the video, and how can it be used?
-The free action provided is called 'Sharpen' and it automates the steps of the 'Vivid Light' sharpening technique, allowing users to input their desired blur value and apply the effect with a single click.
How can unwanted sharpening effects be controlled or reduced in the 'Vivid Light' method?
-Unwanted sharpening effects can be controlled by creating a mask and painting over the areas where less sharpening is desired with a soft round brush.
Outlines
๐จ Creative Sharpening Technique
The script introduces a unique image sharpening technique that paradoxically sharpens an image as it is blurred. The presenter, from Unmashed, shares their excitement about this method and promises to release a video tutorial by 8:30 PM. The technique involves making two copies of the background layer, setting one to 'Vivid Light' blend mode and inverting it, then blurring it to enhance edge definition. The presenter explains how 'Overlay' blend modes work with gray and how this knowledge can be applied to sharpen images. They also provide a free action for this technique and encourage viewers to download sample images for practice. The method is compared to the 'High Pass' sharpening technique, showing a significant difference in the level of detail preserved, particularly in areas like the inside of the eye.
๐ Comparing Vivid Light and High Pass Sharpening
In the second paragraph, the script discusses a comparison between the 'Vivid Light' and 'High Pass' sharpening methods. The presenter uses an action to demonstrate the 'Vivid Light' method, which prompts the user to input the desired blur value, adjustable for each image. The action is part of a free download available to viewers. The comparison highlights that while 'High Pass' may sometimes ignore certain areas and create a more 'natural' result, 'Vivid Light' consistently provides more detail. The presenter suggests that the choice between the two methods depends on the desired outcome, whether more detail or a more natural look is preferred. They also mention that the 'Vivid Light' method used in the demonstration was mild due to a 62% opacity setting, and they proceed to increase the opacity for a more pronounced effect. The paragraph concludes with an encouragement for viewers to experiment with both methods and decide which works best for them, and a reminder to like, subscribe, and support the channel on Patreon.
Mindmap
Keywords
๐กBlur
๐กSharpen
๐กHigh Pass
๐กVivid Light Blend Mode
๐กOverlay Blend Mode
๐กSmart Filters
๐กGaussian Blur
๐กOpacity
๐กAction
๐กMask
Highlights
A special Photoshop technique is introduced where blurring an image can make it sharper.
The technique is compared with the high pass method, showing it can be more effective in certain cases.
A free action is offered to apply the technique.
The process begins by making two copies of the background layer and adjusting blend modes.
Inverting a layer can lead to sharpening effects when using specific blend modes.
The 'Vivid Light' blend mode is used to enhance contrast and sharpness.
Applying a Gaussian blur to the inverted layer can define edges and sharpen the image.
A recommended Gaussian blur value of four is suggested for demonstration purposes.
Grouping and changing blend modes to 'Overlay' results in overall image sharpening.
A comparison between 'Vivid Light' and 'High Pass' methods shows differences in detail preservation.
The 'High Pass' method sometimes overlooks certain areas, unlike 'Vivid Light'.
An action is provided to automate the 'Vivid Light' sharpening process.
The action allows customization of the Gaussian blur value for different images.
Masking can be used to selectively apply sharpening to specific areas of the image.
A side-by-side comparison of 'Vivid Light' and 'High Pass' is demonstrated with different images.
The importance of considering both methods for different scenarios is emphasized.
Support for the Pixel Perfect project on Patreon is acknowledged.
A call to action for viewers to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more content is made.