What’s Your Preference?

inn · #1 (**permalink**) 03-02-2009, 08:53 PM

I've been looking around at techniques for making eyes stand out etc, but they seem to work best on light coloured eyes. Now my dilemma is this, I have very dark brown eyes, they look black - what are the techniques for bring those out? I'm wanting to try out some eye techniques, but on self portraits - which is proving a problem with my dark eyes.

Any tips?

RoyL · #2 (**permalink**) 03-03-2009, 01:28 AM

Dark colored eyes will pop more than lighter colored eyes. Use catchlight, and if not using flash then add it yourself.

Nicole · #3 (**permalink**) 03-03-2009, 05:44 AM

I find it more difficult as well. Most of the time when I try the "eye pop" actions the difference is subtle. Although I've come across one or two that help. One thing to make sure of is that there is enough light so that your pupil isn't as large. And then start playing around with how you're lighting it, processing it, etc. It's still possible, but it takes a little more trial and error I think.

BabetteKD · #4 (**permalink**) 03-04-2009, 05:47 PM

I don't use actions for eyes, mostly because I like utilizing my tablet and doing things by hand literally.

A while ago I found this tutorial on making eyes more interesting in Photoshop. I'm not sure it's exactly what you are looking for, but I find it interesting nonetheless.

inn · #5 (**permalink**) 03-09-2009, 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nicole

I find it more difficult as well. Most of the time when I try the "eye pop" actions the difference is subtle. Although I've come across one or two that help. One thing to make sure of is that there is enough light so that your pupil isn't as large. And then start playing around with how you're lighting it, processing it, etc. It's still possible, but it takes a little more trial and error I think.

How would you suggest lighting the situation to help?

Nicole · #6 (**permalink**) 03-09-2009, 08:52 PM

Make sure you're in a bright enough room or you have enough lights on (or it's sunny). Also a mirror is helpful so you can see what your eyes are doing. In combination with a flash you're off to a good start. I'm about 50/50 for managing to get shots where I either have no colour to my eyes or there's enough that I can pull out the colour and make it more noticeable.

stitchbug · #7 (**permalink**) 03-09-2009, 09:00 PM

i have brown eyes, and i did a dodge on my eyes in this pic
http://www.flickr.com/photos/34765600@N04/3339978608/
i think it worked pretty well!
the picture was taken in outside, in the sun