Some feedback came through my Facebook page wondering how I make my images “pop”. I thought I would show you an easy, two-step way to get more depth and contrast in your images!
Here is the SOOC image – good color and exposure, but it could use a little more.
Step 1: Create a Curves Layer*. Pin a point in the midtones, as well as in the highlights and in the shadows. Drag the midtones up slightly and give the highlights a slight bump as well. The shadows will naturally react to the curve and will add more contrast.
Step 2: I wanted the image to be a little warmer, so I used a Color Balance Layer to add some red and yellow.
And that’s it! Ta-da!!! Now my image has a bit more depth, pop and warmth and is ready for any further processing. Here is the after image:
And a visual comparison:
You know the best part of all this? I made an action that does these steps for you, so you can just click a button and be done! Yay! The action is called SUNSHINE POP and can be found in the Everyday Workflow set!
Have fun making your images POP!
*If you are using Elements, or any other program that does not have a Curves option, use a Levels adjustment instead! Simply pull both arrows toward the midpoint to achieve a similar effect!