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Portraits with AI Backgrounds

Education

Introduction

In this article, we’ll explore how to create beautiful portraits by utilizing the latest technology in AI-generated art along with Photoshop for object isolation. This combination streamlines the workflow, making the process of creating stunning compositing work faster and easier. We’ll explore tips and tricks for making selections and overlays to craft beautiful images.

Preparing the Image

We begin by opening the image within Camera Raw. For this example, we used a Canon D5 Mark II camera. The image was shot against a dark gray background to achieve a desired low-key effect. Since we are working with a RAW file, we can make significant adjustments without losing quality.

  1. Adjusting Exposure: We lower the highlights to recover lost detail on the model’s face and raise the shadows slightly to enhance the overall balance of the image.
  2. Sharpness and Color: Adjust sharpness settings around 60-70 and apply slight luminosity changes to restore depth in skin tones.

Once we complete these adjustments, we open the image in Photoshop.

Object Isolation

In Photoshop, we need to isolate the model. Using the selection tools, we can refine our selections with AI-powered features. If the automatic selection doesn’t capture all the necessary details, such as fine feathers, we can manually refine the selection to ensure it’s perfect.

Next, we create a solid background. If you have access to a variety of AI-generated backgrounds, this is where they come into play. Drag and drop the selected background image beneath our model layer. Depending on the color of the background, we can choose blending modes like soft light or multiply to ensure that the model stands out and looks natural within the environment.

Refining Details

To enhance the composition:

  1. Masking and Blending: Use masking tools to blend the model with the background seamlessly. Brushes can help in refining edges and smoothing overlaps.
  2. Color Grading: Adjust color tones using selective color settings to create a cohesive look across the model and the background.

Enhancing the Model

Using various Photoshop techniques, we can touch up the model's skin for that flawless look:

  1. Remove Blemishes: Tools such as the Healing Brush can quickly remove unwanted imperfections.
  2. Smoothing the Skin: Apply a noise and dust filter to remove excess details and match smoothness with the background.
  3. Dodge and Burn: Using the dodge and burn technique to add depth and dimension to the model’s facial features.

Final Touches

After we’ve completed the refinements:

  1. Noise Overlay: To unify the look of the image, we add a noise layer to match graininess across both the model and the background.
  2. Final Color Adjustments: Use layers for final color adjustments and careful tweaking. You can also consider a black and white conversion for a classic look.

Conclusion

After combining all layers and final adjustments, we achieve a composition that beautifully integrates the model with an AI-generated background. This technique drastically saves time compared to sourcing physical photography and allows for more creativity in staging and environment selection.

Keywords

AI-generated art, Photoshop, object isolation, compositing, image editing, background replacement, skin smoothing, dodge and burn technique, color grading.

FAQ

Q: What tools can I use for object isolation in Photoshop?
A: You can use the selection tools like the Quick Selection Tool, Lasso Tool, or AI-based features like Select Subject.

Q: How do I seamlessly integrate the model with the background?
A: Use masking tools to refine edges and blending modes like soft light or multiply to ensure the model stands out naturally.

Q: What is dodge and burn?
A: Dodge and burn is a technique used in image editing to enhance highlights and shadows, adding depth and dimension to the subject.

Q: How do I achieve skin smoothing in Photoshop?
A: Use noise and dust filters combined with masking techniques to create a smooth finish on the skin.

Q: Why should I use AI-generated backgrounds?
A: AI-generated backgrounds provide high-resolution options that can save time and improve creative flexibility compared to traditional photography.