Vignette and Gradient Filter in PS CC

[bnnrcn]

There is a gradient tool in PS CC that I can use for gradient effects and vignette effects. But as far as I can see it doesn't create a layer. If I choose Layer/ New Fill Layer/ Gradient , then I can get layers for filter effects and vignettes. It seems reasonable to use the one which creates layers , is this what you do? And if so, why is there also a seperate gradient tool

[Manfred M]

The gradient tool is not just applied to the image in the layer. I will sometimes apply a gradient to a layer mask, so having it automatically create a new layer would be a problem. At other times, I just want a gradient (for instance, darkening a sky), so I will set up a separte layer and adjust the gradient itself using blending modes, opacity controls or with a layer mask.

One thing you will find in Photoshop, there are many ways of getting to the same place. As an example, I use a completely different technique when I apply a vignette.

[bnnrcn]

Thank you Manfred. May I ask what technique you use for applying a vignette ?

The gradient tool is not just applied to the image in the layer. I will sometimes apply a gradient to a layer mask, so having it automatically create a new layer would be a problem. At other times, I just want a gradient (for instance, darkening a sky), so I will set up a separte layer and adjust the gradient itself using blending modes, opacity controls or with a layer mask.

One thing you will find in Photoshop, there are many ways of getting to the same place. As an example, I use a completely different technique when I apply a vignette.

[Manfred M]

I create a new layer and use the ellipse marquee tool to cover the area I am looking to apply the vignette too. It often covers the whole frame, but may be offset or angled, depending on the image I am applying it to. After drawing the ellipse, I invert it and apply a feather, usually the maximum I can get when I shoot with the D800 (1000 pixels), but will usually cut that back with smaller resolution images.

I then take the paint bucket tool and with black as my foreground colour I will apply that. With the ellipse and black foreground colour selected I will add a layer mask to pull back the mask to effect the edges of the image. With a black, soft brush I then clean up areas I don't want affected by the vignette and will cut back the opacity of the layer, generally in the 25% - 35% until I get the effect I want. Virtally all of the postings I have on CiC use this technique.

[bnnrcn]

Thank you very much Manfred

I create a new layer and use the ellipse marquee tool to cover the area I am looking to apply the vignette too. It often covers the whole frame, but may be offset or angled, depending on the image I am applying it to. After drawing the ellipse, I invert it and apply a feather, usually the maximum I can get when I shoot with the D800 (1000 pixels), but will usually cut that back with smaller resolution images.

I then take the paint bucket tool and with black as my foreground colour I will apply that. With the ellipse and black foreground colour selected I will add a layer mask to pull back the mask to effect the edges of the image. With a black, soft brush I then clean up areas I don't want affected by the vignette and will cut back the opacity of the layer, generally in the 25% - 35% until I get the effect I want. Virtally all of the postings I have on CiC use this technique.

[dje]

There is a gradient tool in PS CC that I can use for gradient effects and vignette effects. But as far as I can see it doesn't create a layer. If I choose Layer/ New Fill Layer/ Gradient , then I can get layers for filter effects and vignettes. It seems reasonable to use the one which creates layers , is this what you do? And if so, why is there also a seperate gradient tool

Binnur you can create any sort of adjustment layer you like and then select the gradient tool and draw a gradient on any part of that layer. This will restrict the effect of the adjustment to the area of the gradient and apply the gradient effect in that area. I often use it with a brightness layer.

Dave

[Colin Southern]

I just duplicate the image layer and then use the lens adjustment to apply the vignette.

Change the opacity or partially erase to fine tune the effect.

[bnnrcn]

Thank you Dave and Colin There are so many ways to apply functions in PS CC, I will try your suggestions with some of my images . I have a small notebook to write down some hints as well because PS CC is huge and I haven't used the earlier versions because I'm new into photography.

[patrickjohnson]

You should change the opacity or partially erase to fine tune the effect.