Fun fun. I experimented with a new tool in Photoshop: the gradient tool. And I’m loving it. It isn’t to be overused, so beware. But if used properly, it can make a simple image into a spectacular one!
For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, the gradient tool allows users to apply Photoshop effects to a portion of an image and have it gradually appear.
Here is a shadow I saw on my ceiling one afternoon. The layers of shadows is pretty cool, but look how much cooler it is in image #2!
Straight-out-of-the-camera vs. Gradient Effect
There were 2 tonal effects applied to the second image. A warm sunny tone originating from the upper left corner and a cool bluish-purple tone from the lower right corner. I like the balancing contrast of Summer and Winter.
Now the image has more pizazz and oomph! And it doesn’t look over-the-top.
This gradient effect works wonders for portraits too! Here is an example using a shot from my engagement session last Sunday.
First, I’ll show you what I gave to the client…
Portrait with my supah sa-weet Gradient Effect
This gradient effect added more depth to the image without making it look unnatural. So pretty!
And just for comparison…
Straight-out-of-the-camera
For beginning photographers and hobbyists, try it out for yourself, if you haven’t already!