Portrait retouching workshop: Create dramatic backgrounds in Photoshop

TutorialsBy Paul WilkinsonContributions from Digital Photographer published 13 October 2024 Pro photographer Paul Wilkinson explains how to craft creative backgrounds with the help of the latest AI tools Jump to:Editing stepsBefore and AfterPortrait retouching workshopPart I: retouch skin in PhotoshopPart II: Retouch hair like a proPart III: Brightening eyes and teethThere are many reasons why you should add a dramatic backdrop to your portraits, whether you are working for a client or just making images for fun. And, if you follow a few simple steps, it’s easy to do. Firstly, rather than thinking of adding or replacing a backdrop, it’s better to think of pairing a portrait with a new background – they are two halves of the same picture, just as they would be if you had captured them together in the original shot. The lighting, the focusing and the geometry all must work together. Examine the lighting in particular and make sure it matches up – if the lighting is different for your sub...