Post-Processing Eyes

[walro]

What do you all do with eyes in PS or Elements? The only trick I know is over-sharpening the eyes and whitening the eyes, but I'm sure that's not the only way to make eyes sparkle/shine.

[felix68]

I use the GIMP but it works in PS at least. Use the Dodge/Burn tool to lighten the iris of the eye just a bit. It looks most natural if you only do about 1/3 of the iris opposite of the highlight. Also, don't just lighten the whole thing, do it in rays from the pupil to the darker ring on the outside of the iris.

Here is a tutorial on what I am talking about. I think that the example is overdone, as it uses the airbrush instead of the dodge/burn tool. IMHO, dodge/burn is much more subtile if used correctly.

Peachpit: Portrait Retouching with Photoshop 7 > Accentuating the Eyes

[walro]

Thanks so much! That helps a LOT, and I can easily do all that in Elements 5.

[RawheaD]

Yeah, I'll use dodge/burn on both shadows and highlights at around 15% exposure; go over a couple times if necessary.

[MPrince]

Give this action a try.

CoffeeShop Free PS/PSE Actions!: CoffeeShop PowderRoom Free Action Is Here!

I use it not only on eyes and skin, but also to whiten teeth.