Today I want to show you how several corrected layers in different blending modes may transform a simple picture into a very dynamic and striking one.

The operation needs to insert a monochrome layer and small grain effect which gives the face an intensive expressiveness. The technology consists of combining certain layers with different blending modes.

1. Open the file and duplicate the background’s layer, applying the next demonstrated options: Layer>Duplicate>Layer(Ctrl+J).





Choose also the next selection: Images>Adjustment>Desaturate.



Set here the Blending Mode - Multiply.



2. Making the portrait more expressive is possible if inserting on the original picture the grain effect. Insert also a new layer (Ctrl+Shift + N).



Next we need to select the menu Edit > Fill and fill the layer with white color.

 

 

The next step includes choosing the filter Add Noise to introduce on the picture the noise effect.

3. Pass on the menu Filter > Noise > Add Noise. Select Monochrome option and choose for the Distribution option the Gaussian parameter. Set the Amount on 20 value and press then OK.



The intensiveness of this effect may be regulated by changing the Opacity value. Give to the processed layer the Blending Mode - Soft Light .



4. Get back to the background’s layer and select for it the next indicated option: Image > Adjustment > Hue/Saturation for enriching a little the layer’s saturation. Move the Saturation indicator on +40 value and press OK.





5. Make active the copy of the background’s layer. Select the next option: Layer > New Fill Layer > Solid Color. Press then OK in the dialog box for creating a new layer.