Skyline Embossed and Retinex in GIMP

[FocalFrenzy]

Before:

After:


Step #1 (All steps done in GIMP)
I took a shot of the Columbus, Ohio skyline, adjusted white balance and colors to suit.

Step #2
Click on "Filters" tab. Click on "Emboss". When "Emboss"window opens, click on "Bumpmap". I used these values, but you can experiment to see what works best for your image.

Azimuth 30.00
Elevation 45.00
Depth 20
Click "OK".

Step #3
Click on the "Colors" tab. Click on "Retinex". I used the following values, but again, experiment to find what works best for you.

Scale 240
Scale Division 3
Dynamic 1.2
Click "OK".

That's all there is to this effect. Play with it, have fun, and don't forget to post your results. GIMP is the only "Quality" photo enhancing software I own, so I don't know if this effect can be achieved using other programs. If so, please post a "How-To", as others may like to try this. Thanks for viewing.

[prince]

The original is magnificent.. after that the "after" image doesn't attract as much... but nevertheless those are some nice simple steps that can do better for a different image...

[FocalFrenzy]

I liked the "Before" image better myself. The "after" image was my attempt at a "Water Colored Pencil" drawing of the skyline. The end result is nice as an artistic rendering, but the original stands alone as a photograph. I probably should have chosen an image I liked less, to demonstrate this technique. I am glad you liked the original shot as well.

[prince]

Originally Posted by FocalFrenzy

I liked the "Before" image better myself. The "after" image was my attempt at a "Water Colored Pencil" drawing of the skyline. The end result is nice as an artistic rendering, but the original stands alone as a photograph. I probably should have chosen an image I liked less, to demonstrate this technique. I am glad you liked the original shot as well.

Yea the technique is good, but the original is way too good for this technique..

[wulf]

I like the result except for the bottom left corner, where the tree branches have turned a weird magenta shade. I suspect that is because the original is dark down there and so there is little information to work with. I think it works particularly well on the buildings though.

Wulf