It Can Always Be Better

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Ask The Retoucher #46 - Photo Restoration Part V



In this 46th article of Ask the Retoucher, Eric of Photo Grafix continues on his mission to restore a unique copy photo of martial arts legend Grandmaster Moses Powell.

1. Because we are satisfied with the work done so far on this image, we are going to flatten what has been done so far and save it.

2. Go to Image=Duplicate… and check “Duplicate Merged Layers Only” and name add “R4” (or whatever you choose to designate the latest version) to the filename.

3. Then Duplicate the Background Layer.

4. Let’s complete fine-tuning process for the image.

5. Use the History Brush and Healing Brush to smooth out the black, white and shadow areas around the head of the Grandmaster’s Teacher (at top-left).

6. Grab the History Brush, 40% opacity, Blend multiply (from the Options Bar), to add a 3-dimensional look to the Grandmaster.

7. Work on some of the color cast still remaining in the picture, using the Paintbrush tool with a 25% hardness brush, in Color mode.

8. Work on reducing or eliminating the moiré pattern.

9. Duplicate the Backgr
ound Copy, naming it “Descreen.”

10. Try Filter=Noise=Dust and Scratches. Set Radius to 1 and Threshold to 1.

11. Save the file and send it off to the customer for approval!

Photo Retouching Principle to remember: Maintain realistic element of focus, contrast and lighting. Be aware that when you manipulate an image, you can easily change this and throw off these elements.

—Edited by Judy Bond for Photo Grafix University

Please send your questions and problem photos, your location—and genealogical society affiliation if appropriate—to Eric for future "Ask The Retoucher" columns. Visit Photo Grafix online for more information.

Eric runs Photo Grafix, a humble photo-retouching studio in Evanston, Illinois (USA), making photo illustrations and improving photos for hundreds of people and companies worldwide. If he doesn't know the answer, he won't rest until he finds it. Eric Basir is at your service: With each "Ask The Retoucher" article, he'll help you successfully tackle your digital photographic problems. 

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