Create Vector-Style Images in Photoshop Without Pen Tool!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Setting up the Color
   1. Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer
   2. Solid Color Layer
   3. Hard Mix Blending Mode
3. Remapping Color Values
   1. Black and White Adjustment Layer
   2. Gradient Map Adjustment Layer
4. Creating a Vector Style
   1. Converting the Photo Layer to Smart Object
   2. Using the Oil Paint Filter
   3. Adjusting Shadows and Highlights
5. Enhancing the Vector Effect
   1. Duplicating the Photo Layer
   2. Applying Additional Oil Paint Filters
6. Fine-tuning the Color
   1. Using Gradient Map Adjustment Layer Presets
   2. Experimenting with Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer
7. Adding Elements to the Composition
   1. Adding Vector Shapes
   2. Applying Filters to Additional Elements
   3. Adding Shadows and Details
8. Introducing More Colors
   1. Selecting Specific Parts of the Composition
   2. Inverting Masks on Gradient Map Adjustment Layer
   3. Experimenting with Different Color Presets
9. Final Touches
   1. Adding Paper Texture
   2. Wrapping Up the Composition
10. Conclusion

Creating a Vector Style Treatment in Photoshop

In this tutorial, we will learn how to Create a vector style treatment in Photoshop, inspired by the renowned artist Shepard Fairey. This aesthetic involves using hard lines and minimalistic color palettes to achieve a bold and graphic look. By using various adjustment layers, filters, and blending modes, we can transform a regular photograph into a vibrant vector-like artwork.

1. Introduction

Before we dive into the tutorial, let's understand the concept of a vector style treatment and its key characteristics. We'll also explore the tools and techniques we'll be using throughout the process.

2. Setting up the Color

To begin our vector style treatment, we need to establish a color palette that aligns with the desired aesthetic. We'll start by adjusting the saturation of the image and then create a solid color layer with a specific blending mode to achieve the desired effect.

2.1 Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer

Using a simple hue/saturation adjustment layer, we can control the saturation of the image. By reducing the saturation to its lowest value, we create a monochromatic base for our vector treatment.

2.2 Solid Color Layer

Next, we'll add a solid color layer and set it to the hard mix blending mode. This blending mode acts as a combination of a threshold adjustment and a posterize adjustment, simplifying the color values in the image.

2.3 Hard Mix Blending Mode

The hard mix blending mode limits the colors in the image to just a few values, typically black, white, and one or two mid-tones. We'll choose a muted orange color for our solid color layer to create a four-value palette.

3. Remapping Color Values

After setting up the initial color, we'll move on to remapping the color values to achieve the desired vector effect. This involves using black and white adjustment and gradient map adjustment layers.

3.1 Black and White Adjustment Layer

By adding a black and white adjustment layer, we can convert the selected colors to specific gray tones. We'll focus on converting reds to 40% gray, yellows to 60% gray, cyans to 40% gray, and magentas to 60% gray.

3.2 Gradient Map Adjustment Layer

To further enhance the color remapping, we'll add a gradient map adjustment layer. This layer allows us to assign specific colors to the black, mid-tone, and white areas of the image, Based on the values determined in the previous step.

4. Creating a Vector Style

With the color remapping in place, we can now focus on making our image look more like a vector artwork. This involves applying filters and adjustments that simplify the image and emphasize its graphic qualities.

4.1 Converting the Photo Layer to Smart Object

To maintain flexibility and non-destructive editing, we'll convert the photo layer into a smart object. This allows us to Apply filters and adjustments without permanently altering the original image.

4.2 Using the Oil Paint Filter

One of the key filters we'll be using is the oil paint filter. This filter analyzes the contours of the image and simplifies it into illustrated shapes. By adjusting the settings of the oil paint filter, we can control the level of simplification while retaining the essential details.

4.3 Adjusting Shadows and Highlights

To further enhance the vector effect, we'll use the shadows/highlights adjustment to bring out additional details in the image. This adjustment allows us to selectively increase the visibility of shadows and highlights, adding depth to the vector treatment.

5. Enhancing the Vector Effect

To fine-tune the vector effect, we'll duplicate the photo layer and apply further oil paint filters. This helps to simplify the details even more, giving the image a more Stylized and graphic appearance.

5.1 Duplicating the Photo Layer

By duplicating the photo layer, we can experiment with different settings and filters without affecting the original image. This allows for more creativity and flexibility in achieving the desired vector look.

5.2 Applying Additional Oil Paint Filters

We'll Continue to apply the oil paint filter to the duplicated photo layer, gradually increasing the effect. Multiple applications of the filter will result in a more generalized appearance, which is characteristic of vector-style artwork.

6. Fine-tuning the Color

With the vector effect in place, we can revisit the color settings to ensure they Align with our desired aesthetic. We'll utilize the gradient map adjustment layer presets and the hue/saturation adjustment layer to dial in the perfect color scheme.

6.1 Using Gradient Map Adjustment Layer Presets

To simplify the color selection process, we can take AdVantage of pre-made gradient map adjustment layer presets. These presets are designed to align with our four-value palette, offering various color combinations for different effects.

6.2 Experimenting with Hue/Saturation Adjustment Layer

By adjusting the hue and saturation settings on the solid color layer, we can introduce additional colors into the vector treatment. This allows for further customization and experimentation to achieve the desired visual impact.

7. Adding Elements to the Composition

To enhance the overall composition, we can incorporate additional vector shapes and elements. These elements can be scaled, positioned, and transformed to complement the main subject and add interest to the artwork.

7.1 Adding Vector Shapes

By incorporating vector shapes, such as stars or geometric Patterns, we can add visual interest and depth to the composition. These shapes can be blended seamlessly with the existing elements, maintaining the four-value color scheme.

7.2 Applying Filters to Additional Elements

To ensure consistency in the vector treatment, we can apply filters, such as the oil paint filter, to the additional elements. This helps to unify the overall aesthetic and create a Cohesive composition.

7.3 Adding Shadows and Details

To add depth and realism to the vector treatment, we can utilize shadows and highlights. By using the paintbrush tool with reduced flow settings, we can selectively brush in subtle shadows and details, maintaining the four-value color palette.

8. Introducing More Colors

While the vector treatment relies on a limited color palette, we can introduce additional colors to specific elements to create visual interest and contrast. By selectively manipulating the gradient map adjustment layer masks, we can add one or two new colors to certain parts of the composition.

8.1 Selecting Specific Parts of the Composition

To target specific areas for color introduction, we can use selection tools to isolate those parts. This allows us to selectively apply color adjustments without affecting the rest of the composition.

8.2 Inverting Masks on Gradient Map Adjustment Layer

By inverting the masks on the gradient map adjustment layer, we can restrict the color adjustments to the selected areas. This allows for precise control over the additional colors being introduced.

8.3 Experimenting with Different Color Presets

To find the perfect balance of colors, we can experiment with different gradient map adjustment layer presets. By adjusting the location and colors of the mid-tones, we can create additional visual variety within the vector treatment.

9. Final Touches

As we approach the final stages of the vector style treatment, we can add a few finishing touches to complete the composition.

9.1 Adding Paper Texture

To add an extra layer of texture and depth, we can overlay a paper texture onto the composition. By setting the texture layer to screen mode, it blends seamlessly with the underlying elements while enhancing the overall look.

9.2 Wrapping Up the Composition

With all the elements in place and the desired vector effect achieved, we can further refine the composition by adjusting the placement, Scale, and opacity of various elements. By continuously iterating and experimenting, we can create a visually stunning vector style treatment.

10. Conclusion

In this tutorial, we explored the process of creating a vector style treatment in Photoshop. We learned various techniques and used different tools to transform a regular photograph into a vibrant, graphic artwork. By understanding the principles of color remapping, applying filters, and experimenting with adjustments, we can achieve unique and captivating vector effects. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and have fun creating your own vector masterpieces!