Rescuing A Bad Photo

After you’re done sharpening the image, convert it back to RGB mode, Image - Mode - RGB Mode.

Now we can begin color correction. I find that the best way to start is generally by going to Image - Adjustments - Curves. Select the White Point Eyedropper and click on an area of the image that should be pure white (but may or may not be). For this particular image, the best opions are the very top right corner of the wall behind the baby, or the white on the inside of his overalls. I’m going to go with the wall, simply because it’s easier to get to.

4.jpg

Once you’ve done that, you can do the same with the Black Point Eyedropper, selecting a portion of the image that should be solid black. I typically leave the midpoint alone, though you can play around with it to see how it effects the overall color of the image.
Adobe Photoshop Tutorial - Rescuing A Bad Photo - Fig. 5

We’re getting there. Our highlights and contrast is still off, but our color and sharpness are looking much better. Our little guy and the wall behind him are still looking a little yellow in places, so let’s quickly fix this.

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Added Tuesday, August 1st, 2006 at 9:59 pm under Photo Effects.