Print PDF
Favorite
Email
Step 6Make the dark layer mask
Now go back to the dark stock image. Desaturate the image (convert to greyscale) with Layer -> Colors -> Desaturate. This forms the basis of your layer mask- the white parts will be opaque in the composite, and the dark parts transparent, meaning the composite will just take the correctly exposed parts of the dark stock image.
If the image is mostly black and dark grey like this one, you will want to brighten it up a little. Go to Layers -> Colors -> Curves... and you should see a histogram with a diagonal line across it. The "lump" in the middle of the histogram shows the brightness levels of the grey parts in the layer mask image. Drag the middle of the curve upwards so the part above the spike on the histogram is near the top of the window. Your image should now be a lot brighter. This part is not an exact science- the more you raise the curve, the more the composite will draw from the dark stock image, so the more pronounced the HDR effect will be. Experiment to find the best values for your photos.
If the image is mostly black and dark grey like this one, you will want to brighten it up a little. Go to Layers -> Colors -> Curves... and you should see a histogram with a diagonal line across it. The "lump" in the middle of the histogram shows the brightness levels of the grey parts in the layer mask image. Drag the middle of the curve upwards so the part above the spike on the histogram is near the top of the window. Your image should now be a lot brighter. This part is not an exact science- the more you raise the curve, the more the composite will draw from the dark stock image, so the more pronounced the HDR effect will be. Experiment to find the best values for your photos.
| « Previous Step | Download PDFView All Steps | Next Step » |
http://www.gimpshop.com/
"GIMPshop is a modification of the free/open source GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP), intended to replicate the feel of Adobe Photoshop. Its primary purpose is to make users of Photoshop feel comfortable using GIMP. It shares all GIMP's advantages, including the long feature list and customisability, while addressing some common criticisms regarding the program's interface: GIMPshop modifies the menu structure to closely match Photoshop's, adjusts the program's terminology to match Adobe's, and, in the Windows version, uses a plugin called 'Deweirdifier' to combine the application's numerous windows in a similar manner to the MDI system used by most Windows graphics packages. While GIMPshop does not support Photoshop plugins, all GIMP's own plugins, filters, brushes, etc. remain available. Host Unlimited Domains on 1 Account Due to the changes to the interface, many Photoshop tutorials can be followed in GIMPshop unchanged, and most others can be adapted for GIMPshop users with minimal effort."
Yeah, cause professional-grade, feature-rich programs that took years of volunteer time to develop are obviously worthless!
Gimp might be free but it only needs a skilful OP to produce good work.
If you're used to eat only steaks, you will never understand the healthy fish for your diet.