Fixing an underexposed face using PSE4.

[tiger95]

I have a photo where the person is wearing a hat and the face is dark, but the rest of the picture is exposed correctly. Is there a way (using Photoshop Elements 4) to lighten the face without overexposing the rest of the photo?

Thanks,
JD

 

[JenLoy]

I'd like to know too. I've just started toying with PSE 4 and have several photos with the same issue the OP mentioned.

 

[Anewman]

I have never used "elements", but I do it in photoshop using the levels adjustment. For shadowy faces start by moving the center slider towards the left(depending on image), and then fix contrast with the left slider. If highlights are already perfect leave the slider on the far right alone.

I have never liked the Shadow/highlights tool in Photoshop, but some love it. I was under the impression that it was included in "Essentials."

 

[PaulD]

Yes, the shadows/highlights tool is included in Elements and I use it for these exact situations. You just have to be careful to not overdo the adjustment or it starts to look unnatural.

I have Elements 3 and the tool is under Enhance --> Adjust Lighting --> Shadows/Highlights. Give it a shot and see if it works for you. There are other methods usings masks and layers but it gets more difficult and time consuming...