Colorizing an Image ...
The Easy Way!
Here’s my way of "Colorizing," which means to create an image that has a foreground image (or any part of it) in color and a black&white background using Photoshop Elements. I’ve seen so many questions about this technique lately, that I just had to step up and do this step-by-step. Actually, this colorizing process can be used in any imaging software program that includes the ability to create Layers, the Clone Stamp Tool and some way to "desaturate." Choose an image that lends itself to this process. I like to do it with close-ups of flowers, but I’ve also colorized shots of people, pets and pieces of furniture. For this demonstration I’ve chosen a close-up of a Gardenia blossom in my back yard.
Step #1 - I’ve resized the image in Photoshop Elements 4 (Mac version. The same steps apply if you’re working with Elements 5 (PC), and - with slight differences - in any full version of Photoshop.I’ve chosen 8x12 inches, and, of course, a resolution of 300 dpi.
Step #2 - Use your choice of Selection tools to create a border around the flower. I used the Magnetic Lasso tool in this example.
Step #3 - After you’ve copied your Selection, create a New Layer, and Paste the selection on it.
Step #4 - In the Layers menu, Reselect the Background. Then choose Enhance>Adjust Color>Hue & Saturation. Pull the Saturation Slider all the way to the left (to 0%) and click OK.
Your background should now be - effectively - black & white. Save your changes (Of course, if you haven’t already done so, you should choose Save As and give this file a new name so that you’ve don’t destroy your Original. You’re Done!
Okay! Now if you're really paying attention you'll notice that this final version of the image has a really interesting border around it.That's Part 2 of this tutorial ... Click here to learn how to do it:
Border
Return to Photoshop Tips
To see an entire collection of my "Escapes Series," featuring this special technique, check out my new sales site at CafePress. Greeting cards, posters, framed prints, and more! 
Back to Home Page
|
