This one is pretty contrived and probably overdone, but it's my first experiment with the extract filter.
I really liked the shot, but Mom's green coat against the green leaves just didn't give it much visual interest. I tried levels and curves, and couldn't do what I wanted. So.... with my great, big Photoshop book on my knee, I started reading about the Extract filter.
Basically, you make a background copy layer and outline what you want to leave out. Then you play with the remainder, in this case the background which I put into the multiply mode, did some lens blur, and added a little bit of noise. Then I blended it back into the background, which left Mom and the child standing out. I've been pretty heavy-handed on this, but I think it's a tool worth exploring.
It's late and my brain isn't working right. Is the blur/noise on the people or everything else? This sounds like the Orton Effect, except that you sharpen the background, put copy in multiply and blur it, then do levels since it gets darker.
I think what you've done here really makes them stand out, and you've caught a great moment.
I was trying recently to figure out the Extract Filter myself, but I didn't have any luck. Guess I need the Big Book of PS. I like the effect you achieved here. The figures stand out nicely against the foliage in the background. I also like the movement you captured - not at all contrived looking.
Admire the effort- you don't know until you try & takes practice (ho ho , I've never done it !) It's a fun spontaneuos moment you captured very well :)
I like the way this filter has popped the subjects right into the foreground. Its almost sketch like. In fact I like it a lot. Would be good, as you say, if noise could be reduced in the background.
Add photograph to your favorites
Add photographer to your favorites
Photographer found comment helpful.
