The Orton Effect

[Nicole]

In the Photojojo e-mail that I got last night, there was a link to a tutorial on a post-processing effect that I'd never heard of before, the Orton Effect. The basic theory of this effect is that it would put 2 pictures together, one in focus, one out of focus, and combined they create a kind of softened but sharp effect. This tutorial shows you how to do this in photoshop with a single picture.

Original picture:


Orton Effect Applied:


The site that this tutorial is on, PCIN.net has quite a few little digital photography tips and tricks on it as well as some very basic info, so it's worth a look.

[NaturesPixel]

i have done this before.. i find it very good on landscapes... it was actually Mike brown that showed me .... he also does it on flowers i have only tried it on one flower i will have to dig out my images.... from old hard drive ... got new puter today and need to still transfer all my info over...lol

[ardentPilgrim]

This same effect can be done in Photoshop by manipulating layers and blending brushes.

To begin, simply duplicate the image in a separate layer (which is to say copy the background layer; you may need to unlock this layer depending on how it was formatted.)

At this point you can do a number of things:

You can knock the foreground layer out of focus and reduce its opacity (apply Gaussian Blur and adjust opacity accordingly.)

You can use the smudge tool on the foreground layer for a more creative touch--adjusting opacity accordingly, of course.

You can use the DODGE or BURN tools for something even more creative, combining smudges and filters for a truly artistic flare.

You can even simply adjust the blending properties of the foreground layer. I think the diffused pinlight looks really good.

-Stu

[dlaf]

I love the Orton effect, Nicole. I even used it on a portrait of my daughter. Looked lovely. Here are two roses I did this past summer.



I'll bet there are some nice Christmas shots that would look nice as well. Thanks for bringing this easy and beautiful effect to the board.

Debbie

[matt.voran]

Hi everyone, I am an Orton ADDICT and I have a method that I use in Photoshop which I think is just a tad different than others, and makes it a little easier. Actually it just takes some of the guessing out of it...hard to explain but I think if you follow my tutorial you will find it easier. Let me know what you think and share this with anyone who you think might enjoy.