EASY HOW-TO: Product Images POP Via Photoshop’s AI-Powered Harmonize Feature
Create more compelling product images using the powerful Harmonize feature in Photoshop. Whether you’re a product reviewer, content creator or just want to add more excitement to you social posts, this easy how-to tip takes less than five minutes.
We started with Fujifilm’s press-release shot of the remarkable X-E5 which we covered in June of this year. Any subject that can be “knocked out,” i.e., cleanly separated from its background, works using the steps itemized here.
First, resize the image to the dimensions needed for the final output. Be sure to set the dpi to match its ultimate destination.
Shutterbug uses images a maximum of 600 pixels wide by 900 pixels high at 72 dpi. We resized the image accordingly.
Next, we used Photoshop’s ‘Select Subject’ feature to select the product and copied it to the clipboard via the Ctrl-C key combination or top menu bar. See the “marching ants?”
Open a new file matching the exact dimensions of the product image. In our case, the new file was 600 x 600 at 72 dpi initially, but we resized the canvas to 600 x 900, realizing that the first choice was too limiting.
With the new file open, create a new layer.
On the new layer, use the ‘Gradient” button to create the gradient overlay of your choice. I carelessly named this layer “Transient.” Even monkeys fall from trees.
Try several different options until you find the right one.
Paste the previously copied image from the clipboard onto the gradient layer. A new layer will be created. To do this, select the gradient layer and use the Ctrl-V key combination or top menu bar.
The result is the product image pasted over the gradient. Not much to look at, frankly. But let’s continue and let ‘Harmonize’ do its magic.
Click on the layer that displays the product image. From the top menu bar, select ‘Layers’ and scroll down to ‘Harmonize.’
The image takes on an entirely new look. The ‘Properties’ panels displays three options. Of course, you’re not limited to these.
Compare this image to the original at the top of this story.
Try different gradients until you find one that suits your needs.
Adjust the ‘Fill’ slider on the Harmonize layer to balance shadows vs highlights.
To create the POP complete with lighting effects but without the color, use a monochromatic gradient.
You can apply the same technique to virtually any subject. The hero here is the Gradient step.
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—Jon Sienkiewicz
