How to get this effect??

[windrider86]

2 words- Topaz Adjust or Lucias Art

[i speak in math]

Originally Posted by TheDarkReaver

I would guess some type of HDR type PP tool was involved somewhere.

Originally Posted by Maggie_M

Using some kind of HDR would be my guess as well.

i don't believe she uses any kind of HDR techniques.

[teaking]

I would agree with the dodging and burning layers, try to set some up to balance the light on either side of the subjects face and also to pull back the shadows and highlights so you get more details in.
You can also use a gradient mask to add warmth to the pictures by toning it slightly with a warm colour.
And then an highpass layer with a large blur or radius which will show colour fringing, but if you desaturate this layer and set it to hard light mode it will give an almost 3d effect.

I think experimenting with a combination of these tools could give you something or at least help you on your way.

[Maggie_M]

Originally Posted by windrider86

2 words- Topaz Adjust or Lucias Art

I just checked out Topaz Adjust, looks like a fun tool! I think I'll give it a try.
Topaz Adjust - Easily Make Your Photos Pop
Thanks Windrider!

[windrider86]

You'll love it. I use it on nearly every image in one way or another

[qtox91]

ive seen picture like this before and made so like this and this is my technique.

the light is obviously some kind of rear flash or soft box or someting from the rear right once you get that open it into PS (i use cs4, idk if w/e version you use has this) and set it to any where from 240 - 300 resolution. once open i would duplicate the layer twice, and then on the top most layer go to filters, other, high pass. then set the bar at about 3 - 5% and click done the go to change the layer type to vivid light, this will make your photo insanely crisp and almsot gritty. i usually drop it down to about 70% opacity. then i merge the layers. once that is done duplicate the layers again twice and again select the top layer and go to filters, other, high pass, but this time set the bar at anywhere from 10 - 13% and the change the layer type to color. adjust the opacity till you have the amount of color you like.