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This is one of my first tries of playing with different gradients. I went into the gradient menu, chose a peach colored gradient from the "simple" menu and then did curves, contrast, and levels adjustments.
This was originally a plant that lay just below the water's surface - very dark and gray and I was going to convert it to black and white but it just wasn't popping like I wanted so I started playing with the gradients and fell in love with this!
oooooh, Jules! I really love this! It's very cool. Thanks for sharing it - I'll have to check out this technique!
:)
Amy D.
Julie don't you just love all the things you can do thru the gradient map. BTW I like your post very much. I see a small spot on L, and just a couple of specks on other side - but it really is neat.
Good eye, Denise! I was trying to get out the door tonight and missed the final fine tuning. I'll correct my copy in my file!
Really nice Jules. I like the soft colors and your compositiion. Well done! Is this gradient tool in CS4?
Yes, Joanna. Go to the adjustments panel on the right (it's on the bottom row, fourth from the left) and click on it. You'll see a little arrow on the upper right side. Click on that and choose the "simple" gradient menu. I used the peach colored one but there are several to choose from. You can also use any of the other gradient menus - this was just the one I thought looked the best with this image and to give me an autumn feel.
PM me if you have any questions!
Here's the final version. I cleaned up the few spots I had missed earlier and then added an additional layer (Ctrl +J) changing it to multiply mode and backing down on the opacity to about 35-40%. Then I added another additional layer and changed it to dissolve mode to add a little texture.
Jules, Thanks...I am awaiting CS4. Can't wait since I have been using my 50D and can't pp them! I like the first post better -- it is softer and has less noise than the repost.
Joanna, I did the noise on purpose thinking it would give it more texture. Can't wait to see which the others prefer. ???
I like them both Julie, I can't decide-
I like both. The repost looks like it's painted on stucco or sandstone.
Boy, you don't make it easy! ;) I really like both...but prefer #1- it's so smooth and soft. Thanks for sharing- great wat to learn PS techniques-from each other. :)
