How to Use Frequency Separation in Photo Editing for Perfect Skin

Frequency separation is a technique used in photo editing to separate the high-frequency (texture) and low-frequency (color and tone) information of an image, allowing you to edit each separately. This technique is commonly used to smooth out skin and remove blemishes while maintaining the texture and details of the skin. Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to use frequency separation in Adobe Photoshop to edit skin:

Step 1:

Open your photo in Photoshop.

Step 2:

Duplicate the background layer by going to “Layer” > “Duplicate Layer” and name it “Low Frequency.”

Step 3:

On the “Low Frequency” layer, go to “Filter” > “Blur” > “Gaussian Blur” and apply a moderate blur (around 5-10 pixels) to the layer. This will remove the texture from the image and leave only the color and tone information.

Step 4:

Create a new layer above the “Low Frequency” layer and name it “High Frequency.”

Step 5:

Select the “High Frequency” layer and go to “Layer” > “Layer Mask” > “Reveal All.”

Step 6:

On the “High Frequency” layer, go to “Filter” > “Other” > “High Pass” and apply a moderate high pass filter (around 5-10 pixels) to the layer. This will remove the color and tone information from the image and leave only the texture.

Step 7:

Use the “Brush” tool to paint on the “High Frequency” layer mask to reveal the texture in the areas where you want to maintain the skin’s natural details, such as wrinkles and freckles.

Step 8:

Use the “Healing” or “Clone” tool to remove blemishes and smooth out skin on the “Low Frequency” layer.

Step 9:

Adjust the opacity of the “High Frequency” layer to your liking.

Step 10:

Finally, go to the “File” menu and select “Save” to save your changes.

Note: This is a general guide and the specific steps may vary depending on the version of Photoshop you are using, also this technique requires some level of expertise, and you may need to experiment and play with the settings to achieve the desired result.

Also, you can use this technique for other parts of the image where you want to maintain texture and remove blemishes, like clothes or hair.