I’ve been experimenting with the “Dodge & Burn” technique in Lightroom. Here’s a quick before/after:
[image: /assets/posts/dodge-burn-before.jpg]
[image: /assets/posts/dodge-burn-after.jpg]
Key steps:
1️⃣ Convert to B&W.
2️⃣ Increase contrast using the Tone Curve.
3️⃣ Apply localized exposure adjustments with the Adjustment Brush.
What do you think? Any tips to improve texture detail?
Great results, ShutterBug99! I’d add a subtle grain overlay for that classic film feel. In Photoshop:
- Add a new layer.
- Fill with 50% gray.
- Apply “Add Noise” (Monochromatic, 5%).
- Set blending mode to “Overlay” and reduce opacity to ~30%.
This keeps the details sharp while giving a tactile texture.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic effect, try a high‑contrast “Split‑Tone” in the Highlights and Shadows – push the highlights to pure white and the shadows to deep black. Then finish with a slight vignette to draw the eye to the center.
Here’s my version of ShutterBug’s shot after applying that:
[image: /assets/posts/split-tone.jpg]