Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Note
In this lesson, you retouch an image using only Photoshop. For
other images, it may be more efficient to work in Adobe Camera
Raw, which is installed with Photoshop. You'll learn about the
tools Camera Raw has to offer in
Lesson 12
, “
Working with
Camera Raw
.”
Organizing an efficient sequence of tasks
Most retouching procedures follow these general steps, though not every task may
be necessary for all projects:
•
Duplicating the original image or scan; working in a copy of the image
file makes it easy to recover the original later if necessary
•
Ensuring that the resolution is appropriate for the way you'll use the im-
age
•
Cropping the image to its final size and orientation
•
Removing any color casts
•
Adjusting the overall contrast or tonal range of the image
•
Repairing flaws in scans of damaged photographs (such as rips, dust, or
stains)
•
Adjusting the color and tone in specific parts of the image to bring out
highlights, midtones, shadows, and desaturated colors
•
Sharpening the overall focus of the image
The order of the tasks may vary depending on the project, though you should
always start by duplicating the image and adjusting its resolution. Likewise,
sharpening should usually be your final step. For the other tasks, consider your
project and plan accordingly, so that the results of one process do not cause unin-
tended changes to other aspects of the image, making it necessary for you to redo
some of your work.
