How to Remove Wrinkles from Clothes in Photoshop - Frequency Separation Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to effectively remove wrinkles from clothing using frequency separation in Photoshop. This technique is not only useful for enhancing clothing images but also helps you gain a deeper understanding of frequency separation. By following these steps, you'll be able to rejuvenate any garment in your photos.

Step 1: Understanding Frequency Separation

• Frequency separation is a technique that separates the details (high frequency) from the color and tone (low frequency) in an image.
• This method allows you to edit the texture and smoothness of the fabric without affecting the color.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Layers

• Open your image in Photoshop.
• Duplicate the background layer by right-clicking it and selecting "Duplicate Layer."
• Rename the duplicated layer to "High Frequency" and another duplicate to "Low Frequency."

Step 3: Applying Frequency Separation

• Select the Low Frequency layer.
• Go to Filter > Blur > Gaussian Blur.
• Adjust the radius to blur the wrinkles while retaining the overall shape of the garment. A common starting point is between 10-20 pixels, but you may need to adjust based on your image.

Step 4: Determining the Right Radius

• Choose the radius based on how much detail you want to keep.
• A smaller radius preserves more detail, while a larger radius smooths more wrinkles.

Step 5: Applying Noise

• Select the Low Frequency layer again.
• Add a noise filter by going to Filter > Noise > Add Noise.
• Set the amount to a low value (around 2-5%) to help maintain texture after blurring.

Step 6: Apply Image Settings

• With the High Frequency layer selected, go to Image > Apply Image.
• Set the Layer to "Low Frequency," the Blending Mode to "Subtract," and ensure that the scale is set to 2 and offset to 128.
• Click OK to apply these settings.

Step 7: Choosing the Blending Mode

• Change the blending mode of the High Frequency layer to "Linear Light."
• This will combine the high-frequency details with the blurred low-frequency layer.

Step 8: Blurring Out the Wrinkles

• Select the High Frequency layer.
• Use the Blur Tool (or Gaussian Blur) to gently blur out the wrinkles in the clothing where necessary, making sure to maintain some texture.

Step 9: Understanding Radius and Threshold

• Radius controls how much detail is preserved in the image.
• Threshold determines which pixels are affected by the blur—higher values affect only the most prominent details.

Step 10: Using a Brush to Remove Wrinkles

• Select the Brush Tool and set its hardness to 0%.
• Use a soft brush to paint over the areas with wrinkles on the High Frequency layer.
• Adjust the opacity for a more natural look.

Step 11: Applying the Technique to a Different Image

• Repeat the same process with another image to practice your skills.
• Experiment with different radius and threshold settings to see how they affect the outcome.

Step 12: Using Frequency Separation Action

• Download the frequency separation action from the provided link.
• Load the action in Photoshop by opening the Actions panel and selecting Load Actions.
• Run the action to automate the frequency separation process for quicker results.

Step 13: Using the Mixer Brush

• Select the Mixer Brush Tool to blend colors.
• Adjust settings for the Mixer Brush to smooth out areas without losing texture.
• Paint over the wrinkles to achieve a seamless look.

Conclusion

You have now learned how to remove wrinkles from clothes in Photoshop using frequency separation. By mastering this technique, you can enhance your clothing images significantly. For further practice, try applying these steps to various clothing types and styles. Consider exploring other Photoshop features to broaden your editing skills. Happy editing!