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Contast masking in PS6 for RAW /NEF file format users

Wed 16-Jan-08 10:10 AM
Contast masking in PS6 for RAW /NEF file format users.

Nef file format users may find this interesting. I have only been using the NEF file format for a month or so since I got my CP5700, so I may be going over an observation made by previous users, I apologise if this is the case.

I have been playing about with contrast masking in PS6. Trying to hold back highlights & retain shadow detail.
I had read elsewhere that taking multiple exposure images bracketing for under & over exposure of the same scene, then merging the images is ps6 to give the desired image. I thought that this was a little untidy workflow, which may not result in perfectly overlapped image, with very slight movement in the tripod, no tripod available or moving object etc.

I have found that by opening the NEF image in supplied nikon editor, adjust the EV value up by say +1 stop, save image as "original_a".tiff or jpg.

Then reopen the original nef file again in nikon editor, this time adjust EV value -1 stop, again save image as "original_b".tiff or jpg.

Once again reopen the original image in nikon editor, this time make some minor adjustment then undo the adjustment, (effectively making no changes to the image.).... save as "original_c".tiff or jpg.

(You could make finer adjustment than + &- full stops)

This gives you 3 images to work with in PS6.

Open one of the images in PS6, say , "original_a", then "original_b". Then select all of "original_b" .... copy, then paste into "original_a"
this then means you have 2 layers to work with.

Do the same for "original_c", ...open, select all, & copy.... then paste into the "working image"... this will then have 3 layers.

From then on its a question of your creativity, blending the images together with gradients, opacitivity & eraser tool to hold back the highlights & bring out the shadows.

Here is an example.

Click on image to view larger version

Click on image to view larger version

Click on image to view larger version

Click on image to view larger version


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