Transform Your Photos with Stunning Oil Painting Effect in Photoshop!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Step 1: Duplicating the background layer
- Step 2: Smudging out the details
- Step 3: Choosing the right brush settings
- Step 4: Following the natural direction of textures and features
- Step 5: Smudging on a duplicate layer for better performance
- Step 6: Fixing missed areas with smart sharpening
- Step 7: Applying selective sharpening with a mask
- Step 8: Enhancing textures and adding an HDR effect
- Step 9: Global dodging and burning
- Step 10: Adding oil paint filter to the hair
- Step 11: Adjusting levels and duplicating dodge and burn layers
- Step 12: Color grading in Camera Raw Filter
- Step 13: Adding color toning with actions
- Step 14: Applying Lookup tables for final color adjustments
- Step 15: Adding a textured background
- Step 16: Final touches with blending modes and opacity adjustments
- Conclusion
Transform a Photo Portrait into a Digital Painting
Hey everyone, welcome to my brand new Channel! In this tutorial, I'm going to Show You an easy way to turn a photo portrait into a stunning digital painting. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve impressive results. So let's dive in!
Step 1: Duplicating the Background Layer
To start, duplicate the background layer of your photo. This will serve as the base for our digital painting. By working on a separate layer, we can make edits without affecting the original image.
Step 2: Smudging out the Details
Using the smudge tool, begin smudging out all the details and textures in the image. The goal is to give it a more painted look. Choose a medium hardness brush for better control, and make sure to follow the natural direction of the textures and features in the face.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Brush Settings
The brush settings play a crucial role in achieving the desired effect. Adjust the brush hardness, size, and opacity according to the image's size and resolution. Experiment with different settings to find the most suitable brush for your painting.
Step 4: Following the Natural Direction of Textures and Features
While smudging, it's essential to follow the natural direction of the textures and features on the face. This will ensure that the painted strokes Blend seamlessly with the image, giving it a realistic appearance. Avoid going in the wrong direction, as it may distort the face and make it unrecognizable.
Step 5: Smudging on a Duplicate Layer for Better Performance
To avoid lag when smudging, work on a duplicate layer of the subject. Smudging directly on a blank layer with "Sample All Layers" checked can slow down the process. By smudging on a duplicate layer, you'll experience smoother performance and better control over the painting.
Step 6: Fixing Missed Areas with Smart Sharpening
After smudging, examine the image for any areas that may have been missed. These areas can stand out when applying smart sharpening later on. Use the selection tools to target and correct these areas before proceeding to the next step.
Step 7: Applying Selective Sharpening with a Mask
To enhance the details within the subject, Apply a smart sharpen filter to a new stamp visible layer. Adjust the values until the edges become more defined. Use a mask to ensure that the sharpening only affects the subject and not the background.
Step 8: Enhancing Textures and Adding an HDR Effect
Create another stamp visible layer to further enhance the textures and add a slight HDR effect. Adjust the texture slider and fine-tune the shadows and highlights to bring out more Detail. This step will add depth and dimension to the painting.
Step 9: Global Dodging and Burning
To enhance the subject's dimensionality, apply dodge and burn techniques. Use the beauty retouching panel or manually create curves adjustment layers to manipulate highlights and shadows. Paint on the mask using a soft white brush to selectively enhance these areas.
Step 10: Adding Oil Paint Filter to the Hair
For hair, duplicate the original background layer and apply the oil paint filter. Focus on the hair only, leaving the skin and other areas untouched. Adjust the filter settings to achieve the desired effect. Use a mask to confine the filter to the hair and eyebrows.
Step 11: Adjusting Levels and Duplicating Dodge and Burn Layers
Fine-tune the levels of the hair layer to match the rest of the subject. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure consistent lighting and tone. Additionally, if the dodge and burn effect needs to be stronger, duplicate those layers and lower their opacity accordingly.
Step 12: Color Grading in Camera Raw Filter
Enter the Camera Raw Filter once again to focus on color grading the image. Adjust the sliders to achieve a desired color look. Experiment with different settings until you find the perfect balance of colors. Pay Attention to highlights, mid-tones, and shadows for accurate coloring.
Step 13: Adding Color Toning with Actions
To further enhance the color tones, apply pre-made actions that mimic popular Instagram filters. These actions create a group with all the adjustments necessary for the effect. Feel free to make changes to different parts of the effect within the group if needed.
Step 14: Applying Lookup Tables for Final Color Adjustments
Discover an extensive collection of lookup tables (LUTs) and select one that complements your painting. Photoshop provides built-in LUTs, but you can find free ones online as well. Install the chosen LUT and adjust the settings to achieve the final desired color tone.
Step 15: Adding a Textured Background
To add depth and interest to the painting, separate the subject from the background. Create a new stamp visible layer and use appropriate selection tools to isolate the subject. Then, choose a textured background and place it below the subject layer. Experiment with blending modes and opacities to meld the two elements seamlessly.
Step 16: Final Touches with Blending Modes and Opacity Adjustments
To perfect the overall look, make final adjustments to the blending modes and opacity of different layers. In this step, you can further refine the lighting, contrast, and overall mood of the image. Take your time to achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You've successfully transformed a photo portrait into a stunning digital painting. This process requires attention to detail and artistic vision. With practice and experimentation, you'll refine your skills and create even more impressive artwork. Remember to enjoy the process and let your creativity shine. Happy painting!