How can I replicate this effect??

[sparkles]

While searching through some photoshopped images I found this one I would like to duplicate. It was tagged with photoshop elements 5.0. I know how to duplicate the DOF, but I like the faded, painted like effect. I've tried on my own, but I'm not so great with photoshop yet. I have elements 6 or I can use CS3 on my sisters computer.

**Here's the image I'm talking about**



[Edited on 8/21/2008 by sparkles]

[Thorax 48]

Welcome to the forum, sparkles!

May I suggest that you try some of the artistic filters? I can't tell you specifically how to get this effect, but experimentation is part of learning, and I think the artistic filters might b e a good place to start.

Couple pointers when playing with filters: always be sure to keep an original version of your image. Try mixing different filters and blending modes and opacities together for different results.

[TheDoc]

Maybe it's just my eyes, but it doesn't really look like a filter's been used. Simply just looks like a bit of desaturation and some extra blurring.

[sparkles]

Thanks for the replies.. I will try both methods. The reason that led me to believe it was a "painted effect" was due largely in part to the flower leaf in the front.

[silverdoves]

I would suggest setting your colors to default with black as your foreground, going to new>adjustment layer>gradient map and messing with the opacity of the new adjustmjent layer to subdue the colors. For the painted look (if you want to try something like that) you can use image>adjustments>shadow/highlights for some cool effects. Sometimes photos like this can just provide inspiration for something a little different. If you like the idea of painting, maybe that would be a way for you to make it unique. Also try the smudge tool for painted looks, if you're patient and have a steady hand.

Good luck!
-SD

PS - adding noise after you've blurred and done everything else might add something, just don't noise it too heavily. (Filter>Noise>Add Noise - Gaussian, monochromatic...)

[Edited on 8/27/2008 by silverdoves]