Make Your Photo 'Pop' with this Simple Color Grade Trick

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Background Information on Color Grading
3. The Importance of Color Grading in Photography
4. Getting Started with Color Grading in Photoshop
   • Making a Copy of the Original Photo
   • Adjusting Colors in Camera Raw Filter
5. Subject Separation Techniques
   • Separating the Background
   • Cleaning up the Background Selection
   • Decreasing the Brightness and Contrast of the Background
   • Creating a Difference in Saturation between the Model and the Background
6. Enhancing Depth in the Image
   • Applying Depth-Enhancing Effects to the Model
   • Cleaning and Retouching the Model's Skin
   • Making the Model Pop
7. Fine-Tuning the Color Grading
   • Making Specific Color Adjustments
   • Targeting Shadowy Regions
   • Adding Warm Tones
   • Boosting Skin Tones
   • Enhancing the Colors in the Model's Outfit
   • Enhancing the Color of the Lips
8. Final Touches and Reviewing the Results
   • Grouping and Reviewing All the Effects Applied
9. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore a simple color grading trick using Photoshop that can make your photos pop and look more 3D. Color grading plays a crucial role in photography as it helps Create visual interest, depth, and an overall captivating look to your images. We will walk you through the process of applying separate color grading effects to both the background and the model, enhancing subject separation and making the model stand out. Along the way, we will share valuable tips and tricks to transform any photo from flat and boring to engaging and three-dimensional. Let's dive in and start with the basics of color grading in Photoshop.

Background Information on Color Grading

Before we Delve into the details, let's take a moment to understand what color grading is and why it is essential in photography. Color grading is the process of adjusting and enhancing the colors in an image to achieve a specific look, mood, or style. It involves manipulating various aspects of color, such as brightness, contrast, saturation, and temperature, to create a visually appealing and Cohesive color palette. Color grading can completely transform the mood and atmosphere of a photo, adding depth, dimension, and visual impact.

The Importance of Color Grading in Photography

Color grading is not just a creative choice; it is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance the overall quality and impact of your photographs. Here are a few reasons why color grading is crucial in photography:

1. Elevates Visual Appeal: Well-executed color grading can make your photos visually stunning and captivating. It adds a professional touch and a polished look to your work, making it stand out from the crowd.

2. Sets the Mood: Colors have a profound impact on our emotions and Perception. Color grading allows You to manipulate the mood and atmosphere of an image by using specific color palettes. Whether you want to create a warm and cozy feel or a cool and ethereal vibe, color grading can help you achieve the desired mood.

3. Enhances Depth and Dimension: With the right color grading techniques, you can create a Sense of depth and dimension in your images. By adjusting the brightness, contrast, and saturation, you can make certain elements pop and stand out from the background, giving the impression of three-dimensionality.

4. Establishes Consistency: Color grading helps establish a cohesive visual style across your body of work. Consistent color grading can be an important branding element, creating recognition and cohesion in your photography portfolio or social media feed.

Now that we understand the importance of color grading, let's dive into the practical aspects of applying color grading effects using Adobe Photoshop.

Getting Started with Color Grading in Photoshop

To start color grading your photos in Photoshop, follow these steps:

Making a Copy of the Original Photo

1. Open the photo you want to edit in Photoshop.
2. Create a new blank layer by selecting "Layer" from the menu, then "New" and finally "Layer."
3. Press Shift + Command + Option + E to make a copy of the original photo on the new layer.

Adjusting Colors in Camera Raw Filter

1. With the new layer selected, go to the "Filter" menu, choose "Camera Raw Filter."
2. Use the various adjustment tools in the Camera Raw Filter to make color corrections and enhancements.
3. For example, to remove a green tint, shift the tint towards magenta. Adjust the exposure, color channels, and other settings as needed to achieve the desired look.
4. Once you are satisfied with the adjustments, click "OK" to Apply the changes and return to Photoshop.

Now that we have covered the basic steps to get started with color grading, let's explore subject separation techniques to make your model pop from the background.