New_Zealand
Veteran
What is the best way to FADE a PHOTO to give it that worn photo look that you find in an old box deep in the forest.
Last edited:
Aging a photo
- Thread starter New_Zealand
- Start date
drapeama
Well-known member
I'd say, lower the "dynamic range" using LEVELS by "compressing" the output levels (something like 25 to 50 on each):
Add some blur to it using FAST BLUR to give a soft look.
Then, tweak the CURVES until you get some kind of '70's look, toward red and green:
That's what I'd do.
Add some blur to it using FAST BLUR to give a soft look.
Then, tweak the CURVES until you get some kind of '70's look, toward red and green:
That's what I'd do.
Michael Carter
Veteran
Red dyes and inks tend to last the longest - that's why color photos end up with that magenta, washed-out look.
If you're talking physical aging as well... start with matte prints and get a big pile to experiment with. Generally yellowing of the paper, and response to humidity seems right. Soaking in tea or coffee, getting them dirty, etc. If they're supposed to look like they've been handled, try creasing, fine sandpaper, etc. Often prints that have been in a stack or envelope start to stick together and when you take them apart you get those areas where the emulsion has torn off as well. Kinda depends on what they've been through... Main thing is make sure the whites, sides, and backs aren't pure clean white. Even if "real" photos wouldn't age that much, you're selling an illusion.
If you're talking physical aging as well... start with matte prints and get a big pile to experiment with. Generally yellowing of the paper, and response to humidity seems right. Soaking in tea or coffee, getting them dirty, etc. If they're supposed to look like they've been handled, try creasing, fine sandpaper, etc. Often prints that have been in a stack or envelope start to stick together and when you take them apart you get those areas where the emulsion has torn off as well. Kinda depends on what they've been through... Main thing is make sure the whites, sides, and backs aren't pure clean white. Even if "real" photos wouldn't age that much, you're selling an illusion.
New_Zealand
Veteran
Thanks