How to Airbrush a Photo

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Launch your Adobe Photoshop software.

   Locate the application your computer and double click to open.
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   Step 2: Select a photo you want to edit.

   Go to the "File" menu and click "Open." Find and select the photo you want to edit.
   
   It’s best to select a photo with high resolution since you’re dealing with fine details.
   
   A 10-megapixel image should suffice. , Select a portion of the photo with skin. , You will now have two layers. ,, Do this by selecting the "High Pass" layer and clicking on the eye icon to the left of the layer. , Select "Filter" then "Blur" from the menu. , First, choose "Surface Blur." Then adjust in a way that the image becomes blurry but still recognizable. , When you’re done, adjust the radius so the skin becomes smooth. , Click on the eye icon in the left to reveal this layer. , Do this by clicking the drop-down menu above your layer list and choosing the option. , For a natural look, you will need to reduce the visibility of bumps on the darker skin-toned sides of the skin.
   
   To simulate this effect, add a layer mask by going to Layer > Layer Mask > Reveal All. , Apply a copy of the image on the mask. ,, Select "High Pass" filter.
   
   You can find this option by expanding the "Filter" menu then "Other."
   
   It’s best to adjust in tiny increments. , This is located in the layers palette. , Head to Image > Adjustments > Brightness/Contrast.
   
   Increase the contrast and adjust the brightness to the bumps on the skin.
   
   The bumps are less visible on darker areas and more visible in bright areas. , Press Ctrl + G. , Go to Layers > Layer Mask > Hide All. , Add it above the "High Pass" layer. , Change the opacity of the layer to 50%. , Do this by clicking the black thumbnail in the layers palette. , This will make the smooth skin effect visible over areas you paint. , Just right-click anywhere on the canvas and select a large-diameter brush with 50 hardness. , Fill the tiny spots with a smaller brush.
   
   Precision isn’t too required here, as small flaws aren’t noticeable , Done!
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   Step 3: Use the Lasso tool.

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   Step 4: Duplicate that area by pressing Ctrl + J twice.

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   Step 5: Rename the top layer “High Pass.” Also rename the middle layer “Low Pass.”

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   Step 6: Hide the High Pass layer.

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   Step 7: Select the "Low Pass" layer.

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   Step 8: Set the radius and threshold.

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   Step 9: Adjust the threshold to where the edges become sharp.

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    Step 10: Select the "High Pass" layer.

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    Step 11: Change the layer blending mode to Linear Light.

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    Step 12: Add a layer mask.

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    Step 13: Use the "Apply Image" tool.

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    Step 14: Click the thumbnail of the High Pass layer.

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    Step 15: Zoom in to 100% somewhere close to the skin.

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    Step 16: Adjust the Radius until the skin looks natural.

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    Step 17: Click the thumbnail on the layer mask.

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    Step 18: Adjusts the contrast and brightness.

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    Step 19: Select the top two layers.

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    Step 20: Hide the layers.

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    Step 21: Add a new layer.

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    Step 22: Fill this with the color red.

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    Step 23: Select the "Group Layer Mask."

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    Step 24: Use the the brush tool and paint over the skin.

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    Step 25: Select a large-diameter brush.

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    Step 26: Start painting the skin.

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    Step 27: Delete the red fill layer when you finish.

Detailed Guide

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